Spice Free Classic Citrus Mocktail

Total time25 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time5 min

4.6

(5)

Bright, tangy, and completely refreshing, this citrus mocktail is the kind of drink that makes any occasion feel a little more special — no bar cart required. Three kinds of fresh-squeezed juice come together with a lemon-infused simple syrup and sparkling water for a layered, complex flavor that tastes far fancier than the effort involved. Because every ingredient here is clean and straightforward, there's zero guesswork about hidden heat or irritating seasonings sneaking into your glass. The homemade simple syrup is a small but brilliant touch — just sugar, water, and lemon zest simmered together, giving you a delicate citrus sweetness that store-bought syrups rarely match. Topped off with chilled sparkling water and a gentle stir, the result is effervescent and beautifully balanced between sweet and tart. A garnish of fresh orange slices and mint makes it look stunning for guests, though it's honestly just as satisfying on a quiet afternoon by yourself.

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Ingredients

2 servings

For the simple syrup

¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
1 tsp lemon zest

For the mocktail

½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 medium oranges)
3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 1 lime)
1 cup sparkling water, chilled
1 cup ice cubes

For serving

2 orange slices, for garnish (optional)
2 sprigs fresh mint, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the sugar, water, and lemon zest in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the syrup cool for 10 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl or jar, discarding the zest.
2
Combine the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of the cooled lemon simple syrup in a cocktail shaker or pitcher. Taste and add up to 1 additional tablespoon of syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.

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