Can I make this winter mocktail ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the base of the winter mocktail — including the cranberry reduction, pomegranate juice, and citrus slices — a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Add the club soda or sparkling water only when ready to serve to preserve the carbonation.

What is the best way to sweeten this mocktail without refined sugar?

For a refined sugar-free version, use raw honey or pure maple syrup. Add the sweetener after the cranberry mixture cools slightly to preserve the nutrients, especially if you're using raw honey. You can also adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.

Can I turn this winter mocktail into a cocktail?

Absolutely. This recipe is very versatile. To transform it into a cocktail, add a shot of vodka, gin, or even sparkling wine to each glass before topping with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with rosemary or citrus. Always drink responsibly.

Winter Mocktail – Best Low Sugar Drink for Holidays

Name: Winter Mocktail
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag (12 oz) organic cranberries: provides tartness and deep color; 16 oz pomegranate juice: adds tangy sweetness and antioxidant boost; 1 medium orange: sliced thin for citrus brightness and visual appeal; 1 liter club soda: delivers refreshing fizz without sugar; 1/2 cup organic sugar or local raw honey: balances tartness with sweetness; 8–10 sprigs fresh rosemary: offers herbal aroma and festive garnish

Description

This Winter Mocktail is a refreshing, non-alcoholic holiday beverage made with cranberries, pomegranate juice, citrus, and rosemary. Low in sugar and full of seasonal flavor, it’s perfect for Christmas parties, winter weddings, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 bag (12 oz) organic cranberries: provides tartness and deep color
16 oz pomegranate juice: adds tangy sweetness and antioxidant boost
1 medium orange: sliced thin for citrus brightness and visual appeal
1 liter club soda: delivers refreshing fizz without sugar
1/2 cup organic sugar or local raw honey: balances tartness with sweetness
8–10 sprigs fresh rosemary: offers herbal aroma and festive garnish

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Instructions

Rinse and strain the cranberries, then add them to a saucepan over medium-low heat.
Cook while stirring occasionally, mashing the cranberries as they soften to release juice.
Once softened, stir in the sugar or honey and mix well. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
While cooling, wash the orange and rosemary. Slice the orange thinly and pat rosemary dry.
In a pitcher, combine the pomegranate juice, orange slices, and 3 rosemary sprigs.
Strain the cranberry mixture into the pitcher using a fine mesh strainer or colander. Add some pulp if desired for extra flavor.
Stir the contents of the pitcher well to blend flavors.
Serve by filling a glass halfway with the juice mixture, then top with club soda. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and fresh cranberries if desired.

Notes

Chill ingredients before use to reduce the need for ice and avoid dilution.
Add club soda only when serving to maintain fizz.
Swap club soda with lemon-lime soda for a sweeter version.
Use honey as a natural sweetener and add it after the cranberry mixture has slightly cooled.
To make this a cocktail, add vodka, gin, or sparkling wine.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 90
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg