Description
This refreshing Cinnamon-Spiced Orange & Thyme Mocktail combines fresh citrus flavors with aromatic cinnamon and thyme, creating a cozy yet invigorating beverage perfect for any occasion. Made with natural ingredients and sparkling water, it’s a delightful non-alcoholic drink that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Infused Syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 8-10 fresh thyme sprigs, plus more for garnish
Mocktail Mix
- 2 cups fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare Infused Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water, honey, cinnamon sticks, and fresh thyme sprigs. Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to infuse for 3 to 5 minutes. Then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Strain Syrup: Strain the syrup mixture into a pitcher using a fine mesh sieve, discarding the cinnamon sticks and thyme sprigs to achieve a smooth syrup base.
- Mix Mocktail Base: Add fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and orange zest to the pitcher containing the infused syrup. Stir well to blend all the flavors uniformly.
- Prepare Glasses: Fill individual serving glasses with ice cubes, filling the glasses about two-thirds full to keep the drink chilled.
- Assemble the Drink: Pour the orange-thyme mixture over the ice in each glass, then top off with sparkling water. Gently stir to combine without losing fizz.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each glass with additional thyme sprigs and orange slices if desired. Serve immediately for the best, refreshing taste.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor; store-bought juice may contain added sugars or preservatives.
- Adjust honey quantity based on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Sparkling water can be substituted with soda water or club soda for similar effervescence.
- For a non-alcoholic alternative with a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of fresh ginger.
- This mocktail is best served immediately to retain the fizz and freshness.
