Cocktails don’t need alcohol to feel festive. This ruby-toned hibiscus mocktail created by Olivia Noceda has that “special occasion” feel, minus the hangover. It’s tart, floral, and lightly spiced, with antioxidant-rich hibiscus, lime, and warm spices. A glass (or two) is all it takes to brighten the moment.
Non-Alcoholic Hibiscus Mocktail
Recipe Type:Non-alcoholic cocktail
Dietary Info:Naturally alcohol-free, botanically infused
Serving Size:Makes two glasses
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes (including simmer + cooling)
Ingredients
Mocktail:
2 ounces lime juice
4 ounces non-alcoholic tequila
2 ounces non-alcoholic Cointreau
4 ounces sweetened hibiscus juice (recipe below)
A sprinkle of cinnamon + cloves
Cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Ice cubes
Naturally Sweetened Hibiscus Juice:
½ cup dried hibiscus flowers
1 teaspoon cinnamon
A sprinkle of ground cloves
3 tablespoons sugar
3 ½ cups water
Instructions
1. Start with the sweetened hibiscus juice: bring water and spices to a simmer for about 7 minutes.
2. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and sugar, and simmer for another 7 minutes.
3. Transfer to a glass and let it cool — the color will deepen as it rests.
4. To assemble the mocktail, add lime juice, non-alcoholic tequila, non-alcoholic Cointreau, and the hibiscus juice to a shaker with ice.
5. Rim glasses with sugar, then sprinkle with dried hibiscus petals for extra flair.
6. Pour, garnish with cinnamon sticks, and sip away.
How to Enjoy
• As a festive aperitif
• When you want the ritual of a cocktail without alcohol
• To bring something chic and inclusive to gatherings
• As a mid-afternoon “reset” drink
