Ingredients:

1 cup cranberry juice – The rich, tart flavor of cranberry juice brings both color and a tangy kick to the drink.
1/2 cup lemon-lime soda or ginger ale – Adds a bit of fizz and sweetness to the mocktail, enhancing its refreshing qualities.
1 tablespoon lime juice – A splash of lime juice complements the cranberry and soda, offering a citrusy balance to the drink.
1 tablespoon simple syrup – Sweetens the mocktail and helps to harmonize the tartness of the cranberry juice and lime.
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle sweetness and warmth, reminiscent of holiday treats.
Ice cubes – Essential for chilling the drink and giving it the perfect texture.
Fresh mint leaves – Used as a garnish, mint brings a refreshing touch and a pop of green to the drink.
Optional: Fresh cranberries and a slice of lime for garnish – These enhance the presentation and offer a festive touch to your mocktail.

Instructions

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by filling a glass or pitcher with ice cubes. This will chill the mocktail and give it a nice, refreshing texture when served.
Step 2: In a shaker or mixing glass, combine the cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to blend the flavors and dissolve the syrup.
Step 3: Add the lemon-lime soda or ginger ale to the mixture. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to lose too much of the carbonation.
Step 4: Pour the drink into your prepared glass filled with ice.
Step 5: Garnish the mocktail with a sprig of fresh mint, a few cranberries, and a lime slice for extra color and a festive look. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing holiday flavor.

Notes

For the freshest taste, it’s best to use fresh lime juice rather than bottled lime juice, which may have preservatives that can affect the flavor. If you want to make the mocktail a bit lighter or less sweet, you can reduce the amount of simple syrup or soda. If preparing a batch, make sure to keep the drink cold by adding plenty of ice or chilling the ingredients beforehand. The fresh mint leaves and cranberries not only make the mocktail look stunning but also infuse a subtle flavor that enhances the overall experience. If using garnishes, don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation – a sugared rim or a cinnamon stick can elevate the visual appeal and add even more holiday charm.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None

Nutrition

Calories: 80
Sodium: 10mg
Protein: 0g