Sparkling Cranberry‑Rosemary Mocktail – The Perfect Festive Thanksgiving Drink
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start thinking about festive drinks that will impress your guests. One of the most delicious and refreshing options is a sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail. Made with fresh cranberry juice, rosemary-infused simple syrup, and sparkling water, this drink is perfect for all ages and adds a touch of elegance to any Thanksgiving gathering.
This sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail is not only delicious, but it's also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you can have this drink ready in minutes. Plus, it's a great way to get your guests in the holiday spirit with its festive flavors and beautiful presentation.
So why not give this sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail a try at your next Thanksgiving gathering? Your guests will love the unique flavor combination and the fact that it's a refreshing, non-alcoholic option. And who knows, it might just become your new favorite holiday drink!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Slices of orange, for garnish
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and rosemary leaves. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the rosemary leaves.
- Step 2: Make the Cranberry Juice In a blender or food processor, puree the cranberries until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
- Step 3: Assemble the Mocktail In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, rosemary-infused simple syrup, and sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
- Step 4: Serve and Garnish Fill glasses with ice and pour the sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail over the ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of orange and a rosemary sprig.
Tips and Variations
💡 Use Fresh Cranberries
For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them first.
📦 Make Ahead
You can make the rosemary-infused simple syrup and cranberry juice ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Turkey or ham for a classic Thanksgiving combination
- Roasted vegetables for a lighter option
- Stuffing or mashed potatoes for a comforting side dish
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Try pairing this mocktail with a dry sparkling wine for a more adult twist, or with a glass of cold milk for a fun and playful option.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
You can make the rosemary-infused simple syrup and cranberry juice up to 3 days ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Refrigerator Storage
Store the sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir before serving.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Q: What if I don't have fresh cranberries?
A: You can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw them first. You can also try using cranberry juice as a substitute, but keep in mind it will change the flavor and texture of the mocktail.
Q: Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the rosemary-infused simple syrup and cranberry juice ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it's best to assemble the mocktail just before serving for the best flavor and fizz.
Final Thoughts
This sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail is the perfect drink to serve at your next Thanksgiving gathering. With its unique flavor combination and beautiful presentation, it's sure to be a hit with your guests. Plus, it's easy to make and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy hosts. So why not give it a try and make this sparkling cranberry-rosemary mocktail a part of your holiday tradition?
Happy Thanksgiving, and cheers to a delicious and refreshing holiday season!
