Vegan Garden Mint Citrus Cooler
Fresh citrus and garden mint come together in a sparkling drink that feels like summer in a glass. The base is a homemade mint simple syrup made with maple syrup instead of refined white sugar, which keeps every sip completely plant-based without sacrificing any sweetness. Steeping the bruised mint leaves in warm syrup draws out that bright, herbal fragrance before the mixture ever meets a drop of juice. Once you stir in freshly squeezed orange and lime juice, the whole thing smells like a backyard garden on a warm afternoon. A gentle pour of chilled sparkling water at the end keeps the bubbles lively and the drink refreshingly light. It comes together in one pitcher, making it an effortless option for brunches, dinner parties, or just a quiet afternoon treat. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge and it looks every bit as good as it tastes.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the mint simple syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed, plus more for garnish
For the cooler
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 3 medium oranges)
- ⅓ cup fresh lime juice (from about 3 limes)
- 3 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 4 lime wedges (optional)
- 4 small fresh mint sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the maple syrup fully dissolves, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat.
- 2
Add the mint leaves to the warm syrup and press them gently with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon until fragrant and slightly bruised. Let the mint steep for 15 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing the leaves to extract as much syrup as possible. Discard the spent mint.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!