Ginger Mocktails

Ginger Mocktails

Two zesty, zero-proof drinks: a warm-and-cozy ginger toddy and a bold, spicy jalapeño fizz. Great for coldsnaps or cookouts.

Two ginger mocktails: cozy version with cinnamon stick and spicy version with lime and jalapeño slices

Cozy Ginger Mocktail

Comforting and aromatic—like a zero-proof hot toddy with gentle fizz if served over ice.

Ingredients (1 serving)

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ginger beer (non-alcoholic)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup or honey
  • 1 small cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish
  • Ice (for the cold version)

Directions

  1. Warm method: Gently heat the apple cider, lemon juice, and syrup in a small pan until steaming (do not boil). Pour into a mug, add the cinnamon stick, then top with a small splash of ginger beer to taste.
  2. Cold method: Add lemon juice and syrup to an ice-filled glass. Add apple cider and ginger beer, stir gently, and garnish with the cinnamon stick.
  3. Taste and adjust sweetness/acid. Serve immediately.

Tip: Heating the ginger beer will drive off carbonation; that’s why we warm the base and add the ginger beer last.

Spicy Ginger Mocktail

Zesty, citrusy, and peppery—jalapeño brings a fun kick.

Ingredients (1 serving)

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) ginger beer (non-alcoholic)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) orange juice
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) ginger syrup (see below)
  • 2–4 thin jalapeño slices (seeded for less heat)
  • Ice · Garnish: lime wheel

Directions

  1. In a shaker or glass, lightly muddle jalapeño with the lime juice (10–15 seconds).
  2. Add orange juice and ginger syrup; fill with ice and stir.
  3. Top with ginger beer, stir gently, and garnish with a lime wheel. Taste and adjust heat with more jalapeño if desired.

Rim idea: Mix equal parts sugar and chili powder; lightly rim the glass for a sweet-heat finish.

Homemade Ginger Syrup

  1. Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger in a saucepan.
  2. Simmer 8–10 minutes; remove from heat and steep 10 minutes more.
  3. Strain and cool. Refrigerate in a clean bottle up to 2 weeks.
Make-ahead: Mix the juicy bases (citrus + sweetener) up to 2 days ahead. Add ice and ginger beer just before serving for best fizz.

Serving Notes & Variations

  • Herbal swap: Add a few mint leaves to either mocktail for a fresh lift.
  • Less sugar: Use diet ginger beer or increase citrus to brighten without extra syrup.
  • Kid-friendly: Skip jalapeño; add a splash of soda water for extra bubbles.
  • Storage: Assembled drinks are best right away. Bases keep 2–3 days refrigerated.

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