Saint Tiki Non-Alcoholic Cocktail

We’re big believers that—as is true of music or décor— the right food or drink can conjure another vista. Put Desmond Dekker’s “Israelites” on the hi-fi, and we’re transported to a beach somewhere warm. Our springy Famille Rose plates might conjure high tea at the London Ritz. And this sprightly non-alcoholic cocktail? Well, it’s vacation in a glass.

You might find yourself trying to coax a spouse, child or pet to pour this into a coconut, add an umbrella, and bring the Saint Tiki to you on your porch or patio. But it’s just as good in an elegant coupe. Fresh orange, pineapple, and lime juices brim with intimations of seaside daydreams. An easy cinnamon simple syrup grounds the drink, making it none-too-sweet, while ginger beer and mint lend fizz and freshness. You might even forget that it’s a non-alcoholic cocktail, but you’ll remember the next morning when you wake up bright-eyed.

It’s hard to pick a favorite from our new drinks cookbook, Drinks for Every Season. (After all, contenders such as Watermelon Tequila Punch, In Full Fig, Citrus & Spice Mulled Wine and a Faux-Loma are among the 150 beauties in there). If we had to, though, this number would surely be a contender. Here’s the recipe. See you on the beach!

Saint Tiki

Using cocktail bitters in mocktails is controversial, since they are typically alcoholic—but they are used in such small quantities that they end up contributing just trace amounts. Bitters are great for adding layers of complexity to an otherwise simple (and alcohol-free) drink. Just make sure your guest isn’t allergic or completely opposed to the idea.

5 from 1 vote

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Servings 1 drink

Equipment

• 1 shaker
• 1 coupe glass

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz (60 ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 oz (60 ml) fresh pineapple juice
• ¾ oz (20 ml) fresh lime juice
• ½ oz (15 ml) Cinnamon Simple Syrup
• 2 dashes Tiki bitters (optional)
• Ginger beer, to top
• 1 sprig mint, to garnish

Cinnamon Simple Syrup

• 1 cup (250 ml) water
• 1 cup (200 g) sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks

Instructions

 

Make Cinnamon Syrup:

• In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the water to a simmer.
• Add the sugar and cinnamon sticks. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
• Remove from the heat and let cool.
• Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Make Drink:

• In a cocktail shaker, combine the orange, pineapple, and lime juices, cinnamon simple syrup, and bitters, if using.
• Add ice, cover, and shake vigorously for 8-10 seconds.
• Strain into a cold coupe or cocktail glass.
• Top with ginger beer and garnish with the mint sprig.

What You’ll Need for This Non-Alcoholic Cocktail:

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