Recipes by Brad, Simple Recipes anyone can make

Cranberry Lemon Sparkler (Alcohol-Free) (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

Creating the perfect cranberry lemon sparkler requires quality ingredients that work together harmoniously. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the drink’s signature flavor profile and beautiful appearance. Let’s examine what makes this holiday beverage so special.

Sparkling Water (3 ounces)

High-quality sparkling water forms the foundation of this mocktail, providing effervescence and body. Choose unflavored sparkling water or club soda for clean taste that won’t overpower the delicate fruit flavors. The carbonation creates a sophisticated mouthfeel similar to champagne. The sparkling water should be well-chilled before mixing for optimal taste and refreshing finish in your drink.

Fresh Cranberry Juice (2 ounces)

Pure cranberry juice delivers the drink’s signature tartness and beautiful color. Avoid cranberry cocktail blends that contain added sugars. Fresh juice provides more vibrant flavor and natural acidity that balances perfectly with the lemon components. This ingredient creates the drink’s stunning ruby appearance and authentic cranberry taste.

Fresh Lemon Juice (1 ounce)

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for authentic citrus flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and complexity of fresh juice. The natural oils in fresh lemon juice add aromatic qualities that bottled versions cannot match. This ingredient provides vibrant citrus character that makes the drink shine.

Honey Syrup (¾ ounce)

Honey syrup balances the tartness from cranberry and lemon juices while adding depth. Make your own by combining equal parts honey and warm water, stirring until dissolved. The honey provides natural sweetness with subtle floral notes that complement the fruit beautifully. Store homemade honey syrup refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Vanilla Extract (¼ teaspoon)

A small amount of pure vanilla extract adds complexity and smoothness to the drink. The vanilla creates depth that mimics the body found in traditional cocktails. Use real vanilla extract rather than imitation for best results. This secret ingredient elevates the drink from simple juice blend to sophisticated beverage.

Fresh Cranberries (for garnish)

Fresh cranberries provide visual appeal and subtle flavor enhancement. Choose firm, bright red berries without soft spots or wrinkles. These garnish elements add festive color and can be eaten after enjoying the drink. Some mixologists lightly muddle one or two berries for extra flavor and deeper color.

Lemon Twist (for garnish)

A fresh lemon twist releases aromatic oils that enhance the drinking experience. Cut the twist from fresh lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. The oils from the twist add fragrance and complement the lemon juice already in the beverage perfectly.

Ice Cubes

Clean, fresh ice is crucial for proper dilution and temperature control. Use filtered water ice if possible to avoid off-flavors. The ice should be completely frozen and free from freezer odors. Proper ice ensures your drink reaches the ideal temperature and maintains carbonation during preparation.

# Instructions:

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect alcohol-free cranberry lemon drink. Each step builds upon the previous one to develop optimal flavor and presentation. Take your time with each stage to achieve professional-quality results that will impress your guests.

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass and Garnishes

Start by chilling a tall glass or martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes. This step keeps your beverage cold longer and maintains the sparkling water’s carbonation. While the glass chills, prepare your garnishes by washing fresh cranberries and cutting a lemon twist from fresh lemon peel. Remove any seeds from the cranberries and ensure the lemon twist is about two inches long. Having everything ready before mixing makes the process smooth and professional.

Step 2: Make the Honey Syrup Base

In a small container, combine equal parts honey and warm water, stirring until completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before using. This homemade honey syrup blends more easily than straight honey and distributes sweetness evenly throughout the drink. Prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate for convenience. The honey syrup adds natural sweetness with subtle floral notes that enhance the fruit flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Base Ingredients

In a cocktail shaker or large glass, combine 2 ounces of fresh cranberry juice, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, ¾ ounce of honey syrup, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together. The vanilla extract adds depth and complexity that creates a sophisticated flavor profile. Ensure all ingredients are well-combined before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Shake or Stir with Ice

Add ice cubes to your mixture and either shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds or stir briskly for 20-30 seconds. The mixing process properly blends all ingredients while chilling the base to the perfect temperature. If shaking, you should hear the ice moving freely inside the shaker. Proper mixing creates ideal texture and ensures all flavors blend harmoniously throughout the drink.

Step 5: Strain and Add Sparkle

Remove your chilled glass from the freezer. Strain the cranberry-lemon mixture into your glass, leaving the ice behind. Slowly pour 3 ounces of cold sparkling water down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. The sparkling water should be added last to maintain its effervescence. Stir gently once to incorporate without losing too many bubbles.

Step 6: Add Final Garnishes and Serve

Drop 2-3 fresh cranberries into the drink, where they’ll float beautifully on the surface. Express the oils from your lemon twist by gently squeezing it over the glass, then drop it in or hang it on the rim. The garnishes add visual appeal and aromatic enhancement. Serve immediately while the drink is perfectly chilled and bubbly. Present on a small napkin for an elegant finishing touch that shows attention to detail.