It’s Mocktail Season
Enjoying a vibrant drink on a warm summer day is a perfect way to embrace the season! Enter this berry ginger beer mocktail. It’s a sensational concoction that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh berries with the invigorating spice of ginger. Bursting with berry flavors and boasting a refreshing fizz, this mocktail is an ideal companion for those seeking a non-alcoholic alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
This summer, I’ve been all about the mocktail. It’s been such an interesting, fun challenge to make delicious drinks that don’t rely on the taste of alcohol (but can have alcohol added if interested). Mocktails are a fun drink to have any day of the week, any time of day, and can be shared with all of your friends and family. It’s a great way to make sure everyone is included in the fun!
Tips for Making a Delicious Berry Ginger Beer Mocktail
If you plan on making this mocktail recipe, here are a few tips to make sure it’s fantastic:
- For the berry simple syrup, I love to use the “fancy berry” mix from the frozen section of the grocery store. It’s a mix of blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries and it’s the perfect amount of tart to balance the syrup!
- When making the syrup, the color of the berries will bleed into the simple syrup making it challenging to see if the sugar has dissolved. Before taking the pan off the heat, use a spoon to taste a little bit of the simple syrup. If it still tastes a bit sandy, leave it on the heat for a another minute or two. If it’s ready to be taken off the heat, it will be syrupy and smooth.
- This recipe is a bit on the sweeter side – if that’s not your jam, reduce the amount of simple syrup to ½ or ¾ of an ounce.
- The simple syrup needs to be completely cooled before adding it to the cocktail. It can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept in the refrigerator.
- Filling the glass with ice first will help cool the cup. It makes for an even colder beverage!
Common Questions When Making a Berry Ginger Beer Mocktail
Q: Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?
- A: The berry simple syrup can absolutely be made in advance. Make and cool the syrup in the refridgerator for up to 2 days. I would recommend mixing the mocktail right before enjoying so the ginger beer doesn’t go flat.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a large batch?
- A: For sure! Adjust the measurements in the instructions below to the number of servings needed. Mix the ingredients into a large pitcher, omitting the ice. Add ice to the individual glasses and divide the mocktail among the glasses.
Q: Can I mix alcohol into this drink?
- A: Yes! While this is a great mocktail on it’s own, it can be made with booze for anyone who is looking for it. Add 2 oz of vodka to the drink after adding the syrup and lemon juice to the glass.
Ginger Beer Mocktail Recipe Details
Make the Berry Simple Syrup
Before making the mocktail itself, you’ll need to make and cool the berry simple syrup. In a saucepan, add sugar, water, and frozen berries, giving them a quick stir. The saucepan of is placed over medium heat on the stovetop and brought to a light simmer. The mixture will bubble for about 5 minutes, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the berries have softened.
Once the sugar has dissolved, strain the mixture through a sieve or colander into a heat-safe glass container. Use a silicon spatula to press all of the delicious juices from the berries into the jar. The mixture will need to cool completely in the refrigerator, preferably overnight, before mixing it into the cocktail. Let the mixture cool slightly on the countertop before placing a lid on the container so that you don’t trap any heat in the jar.
Mix the Mocktail
To prepare a serving of this mocktail, fill a glass with crushed ice. Over the ice, add the simple syrup and lemon juice, then pour over the ginger beer and sparkling water. Give it a stir and add the mixed berries and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint. Serve right away and enjoy!
This mocktail would be a perfect drink to serve at a party. Pair it with a Veggie Pesto Pizza, Baked Corn Black Bean and Feta Dip, and Blueberry Cobbler with Lavender Sugar for a complete summer party spread.
If you make this berry ginger beer mocktail, be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a rating – I can’t wait to hear how it goes. As always, tag me on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook in your photos. It makes me feel like we’re getting to cook together! Happy sipping!
Berry Ginger Beer Mocktail
Description
A family friendly mocktail with mixed berries, ginger beer, a bit of lemon, and sparkling water, this summery drink is sure to be a hit. A bit sweet, a bit tart, and a lot of fun, it’s perfect for your next barbecue!
Ingredients
Berry Simple Syrup
Berry Ginger Beer Mocktail
Instructions
To make the berry simple syrup
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In a medium saucepan, add ½ cup cane sugar, ½ cup water, and ½ cup frozen mixed berries. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a light simmer.
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Stirring often, let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved.
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Strain the mixture into a heat-safe glass through a sieve or colander, pressing all of the juices from the berries.
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Let cool completely in the refrigerator before using.
This recipe makes enough syrup for 6 servings
To make 1 drink
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Add a scoop of crushed ice to a glass.
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Pour 1 oz of the berry simple syrup over the ice and add the juice from half a small lemon.
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Add the ginger beer and sparkling water to the glass, stirring lightly to mix all ingredients together.
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Add the fresh mixed berries to the top of the glass and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note
The recipe for the berry simple syrup will make enough for 12 berry ginger beer cocktails.
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