New Year’s Eve Mocktails

This post comes to us courtesy of Samantha Hobbs Chulick, blogger at Cashmere Fog.

 

The clink of flutes full of bubbly, the clack of high heels dancing the night away, and the roar of jubilation at the stroke of midnight. New Year’s Eve conjures up the sounds of elaborate parties full of sequined dresses, caviar blinis, and of course, champagne. But what if you’re going sans alcohol on December 31st? Here’s the answer – mix up a mocktail and mingle the night away.

 

With these faux cocktails, you’ll still look like you’re imbibing in something festive, and the best news – you won’t wake up the next morning with a raging headache. From a sparkling punch to a refreshing spritzer, below are three great mocktail recipes for your sipping pleasure this Saturday night (and each can also be adapted to create an alcoholic version). Happy New Year and cheers!

 

“Champagne” Punch

 

If you decide to spike the punch, the best choice would be vodka.

 

1 liter bottle ginger ale, chilled

1 (64-ounce) bottle white grape juice, chilled

 

In a large punch bowl, combine ginger ale and white grape juice. And voila! You have a non-alcoholic bubbly. Serves 24.

 

Cider Mocktail

 

If you’re feeling extra festive, add a dash of apple or pomegranate liqueur to this drink.

 

2 ounces pomegranate juice

5 ounces apple cider

Rosemary twigs for garnish (optional)

 

To a highball glass filled with ice, add pomegranate juice and apple cider. Garnish with a rosemary twig. Sip and enjoy! Serves 1.

 

Cranberry Spritzer

 

To make this mocktail transition to cocktail, add a splash of vodka.

 

2 cups cranberry juice

2 cups seltzer

2 Tbs. lime juice, plus 4 lime wedges for garnish

1/2 cup frozen cranberries

 

Combine cranberry juice, seltzer and lime juice in a pitcher. Divide among 4 ice-filled glasses. Garnish with frozen cranberries and lime wedges. Serves 4.

 

About the author: Samantha is a graduate student studying food & wine writing in the Midwest. Originally from California, her work has appeared in Santa Barbara Magazine, Vox Magazine, The Columbia Missourian, and Farm Journal. She has also been featured on her local NPR station as a wine expert. She believes that every girl should always have a bottle of bubbly in her fridge – in case of emergencies and impromptu celebrations.