3 Summer Mocktails Worth Making
Image from The Little Epicurean
Let's be honest—when it's blazing hot outside and you want something more exciting than water but don't necessarily want alcohol, your options can feel pretty limited. Sure, you could grab another LaCroix, but wouldn't it be nice to have something that actually feels special?
The good news is that some of our favorite food bloggers have been quietly perfecting the art of the mocktail, and their recipes are genuinely impressive. We're talking about drinks with real depth and flavor, not just juice mixed with soda water. Here are our top picks from bloggers who know their way around both a kitchen and a cocktail shaker.
The Mocktail Revolution
Mocktails are no longer an afterthought; heading into 2024 and 2025, they're becoming a mainstay at social gatherings, perfect for sober-curious folks, designated drivers, or anyone looking to sip something special. In 2025, mocktail trends are embracing unique and exciting flavours. Botanical ingredients like lavender and rosemary are adding fragrant and calming notes.
Deb Perelman's "Consolation Prize" (Smitten Kitchen)
Smitten Kitchen summarizes itself as being "Fearless cooking from a tiny kitchen in New York City." It was created by Deb Perelman who obsessed with the intricacies of food and cooking. Her "piña colada-meets-mojito ode to the craft mocktail is perfectly refreshing and tastes anything but abstemious."
The Recipe:
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon honey
8-10 fresh mint leaves
Club soda
Ice
Muddle mint leaves with honey, add coconut milk and lime juice, shake with ice, and top with club soda. This tropical-inspired drink proves that non-alcoholic doesn't mean non-sophisticated.
Image from Smitten Kitchen
Lindsay Ostrom's World's Best Watermelon Smoothie (Pinch of Yum)
Pinch of Yum is almost an institution. With over 1000 blog posts, it has something healthy for everyone. Founded over a decade ago by Lindsay Ostrom and her husband Bjork, it's filled with all the goodness that comes from a genuine love for food.
Lindsay calls this the "World's Best Watermelon Smoothie" featuring 4 simple ingredients that create the perfect summer refresher. The smoothie will separate after a few minutes, but that's not a problem—the stuff at the bottom is straight up watermelon juice and it's amazing.
The Recipe:
Fresh watermelon chunks
Fresh mint leaves
Honey (to taste)
Water
Blend all ingredients until smooth and serve immediately over ice. This naturally sweet drink proves that sometimes the simplest combinations are the most satisfying. It's like a booze-free mojito that captures pure summer in a glass.
Image from Pinch of Yum
The Little Epicurean's Grapefruit Shrub Sparkling Mocktail
The Little Epicurean is the Los Angeles based recipe blog featuring from-scratch baking, decadent desserts, and unique cocktails and mocktails. Their approach to mocktails incorporates unique techniques like shrubs—drinking vinegar made with equal parts fruit, sugar, and vinegar.
The Recipe:
Fresh grapefruit segments and peel
Granulated sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Sparkling water
Fresh thyme for garnish
Place sugar in a large pitcher or mason jar. Add grapefruit peel and muddle together to release oils from peel. The tangy-sweet profile creates a refreshing drink that's both health-conscious and incredibly flavorful.
Image from The Little Epicurean
Mocktail Tips
Current Trending Flavors for 2025
According to cocktail experts, this year's standout mocktail trends include:
Botanical Elements: Floral and herbal notes are making a splash, with lavender and rosemary leading the charge
Watermelon & Mint Combinations: Perfect for beating summer heat
Blackberry Smoked Bitters: Adding sophisticated depth
Ginger & Cranberry Pairings: For those who love a little spice
Keep In Mind…
Balance is Key: The best mocktails achieve the same sweet-tart-bitter balance found in great cocktails. Don't be afraid to use bitters, vinegars, or herbal elements to add complexity.
Presentation Matters: The best mocktails are all about bold flavours and eye-catching presentation. Invest in proper glassware and garnishes.
Make-Ahead Syrups: Most food bloggers recommend preparing flavored simple syrups in advance. They keep in the refrigerator for weeks and allow you to craft drinks quickly when guests arrive.