15 Sunrise Mocktails to Start Your Day Right

Just as the sun paints the morning sky in vibrant hues, you'll find these sunrise mocktails add a splash of color to your daily routine. You're about to discover 15 alcohol-free beverages that combine fresh fruits, exotic spices, and sparkling elements to create Instagram-worthy drinks that taste as good as they look. From tropical mango-coconut blends to zesty citrus fusions, these morning refreshers offer more than just hydration—they're your gateway to elevating ordinary mornings into extraordinary experiences.

Tropical Mango-Coconut Sunrise

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this vibrant, layered mocktail that perfectly captures the essence of a summer sunrise. The combination of fresh mango and coconut creates a smooth, refreshing blend that's both sophisticated and fun, making it an ideal choice for brunches, pool parties, or any occasion that calls for a festive non-alcoholic beverage.

This Instagram-worthy drink features a stunning gradient effect, transitioning from deep orange at the bottom to a soft yellow-white at the top, mimicking the colors of a tropical dawn. The subtle sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with creamy coconut milk, while a hint of lime adds the perfect touch of brightness to balance the flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup
• Coconut water for diluting (optional)
• Mango slices and mint leaves for garnish

Begin by blending the mango chunks with half of the coconut milk until completely smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining coconut milk with the orange juice and lime juice, stirring until well incorporated. If the mixture is too thick, add coconut water to achieve your desired consistency.

To create the sunrise effect, fill tall glasses with crushed ice. Slowly pour the grenadine syrup down the side of each glass. Next, carefully layer the mango-coconut mixture over the grenadine by pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon. Finally, top with the orange-coconut mixture, again pouring over a spoon to maintain distinct layers. Garnish with fresh mango slices and mint leaves.

For the best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing. The success of the layered effect depends largely on the pouring technique and the temperature of the ingredients. If your mango isn't sweet enough, adjust the amount of simple syrup accordingly. You can also prepare the mango-coconut puree in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but always layer the drink just before serving to maintain the dramatic sunrise effect.

Citrus Berry Morning Fizz

The Citrus Berry Morning Fizz is a vibrant, alcohol-free beverage that combines the bright flavors of fresh citrus with the sweet-tart notes of mixed berries. Perfect for brunches, morning gatherings, or any time you want a refreshing start to your day, this mocktail delivers both sophisticated presentation and delightful taste.

This recipe creates a layered drink that mimics the colors of sunrise, starting with deep berry tones at the bottom and graduating to lighter citrus hues at the top. The addition of sparkling water provides a sophisticated effervescence, while fresh fruit garnishes add both visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• 2 oz fresh orange juice
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz berry syrup
• 4 oz sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice and fresh berries for garnish
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
• Mint leaves

Begin by creating the berry base. In a blender, combine the mixed berries with honey and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp. This will create your berry puree base.

In a tall glass filled with ice, start by pouring the berry puree. Slowly add the orange juice by pouring it over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. Combine the lemon juice with sparkling water in a separate container, then carefully pour this mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass. This technique helps maintain the distinct layers of color.

For best results, serve this mocktail immediately while the sparkling water is still effervescent. Keep the berry puree refrigerated if making ahead of time, and adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of honey or agave nectar. For an extra special touch, freeze berries in ice cubes ahead of time to use in the drink, which will prevent dilution while adding visual appeal.

Green Tea & Mint Awakening

A refreshing twist on traditional morning beverages, the Green Tea & Mint Awakening mocktail combines the gentle caffeine boost of green tea with the invigorating properties of fresh mint. This sophisticated non-alcoholic drink offers a perfect balance of earthy and crisp flavors, making it an ideal choice for starting your day or entertaining guests at a morning gathering.

The key to this mocktail's success lies in the quality of its green tea base and the proper preparation of the mint-infused simple syrup. When these elements are carefully crafted and combined with fresh citrus notes, they create a beverage that's both energizing and elegantly composed, worthy of its "awakening" designation.

Ingredients:

• 2 green tea bags
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup water (for simple syrup)
• 2 cups cold water (for tea)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• Ice cubes
• Club soda
• Cucumber slices (optional garnish)

Begin by preparing the mint-infused simple syrup. Combine honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until honey dissolves completely. Add 3/4 cup of mint leaves, remove from heat, and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and refrigerate until cold.

Meanwhile, brew the green tea using 2 cups of hot water and both tea bags, steeping for 3 minutes. Remove tea bags and let cool completely.

In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea, mint simple syrup, lemon juice, and lime juice. Stir well and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice, pour the tea mixture until glasses are 2/3 full, and top with club soda. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and cucumber slices if desired.

For best results, prepare the mint simple syrup and tea base a day ahead to allow flavors to fully develop. The simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, while the tea base will keep fresh for 3-4 days. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of mint simple syrup, and consider using different tea varieties like jasmine green tea for subtle flavor variations.

Peach-Ginger Sparkler

A Peach-Ginger Sparkler is a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage that combines the sweet, fruity notes of fresh peaches with the warm, spicy kick of ginger. This refreshing mocktail creates a beautiful sunrise effect when properly layered, making it perfect for brunches, summer gatherings, or any occasion calling for an elegant alcohol-free option.

The key to achieving the perfect balance in this drink lies in the homemade peach puree and ginger syrup. When these components are carefully prepared and combined with sparkling water, the result is a complex, well-rounded beverage that rivals any traditional cocktail in terms of taste and presentation.

Begin by making the ginger syrup: combine sugar, water, and minced ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool completely. For the peach puree, blend the chopped peaches with peach nectar until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp. Combine 2 tablespoons of the ginger syrup with the peach puree and lemon juice.

To assemble the mocktail, fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in 3 tablespoons of the peach-ginger mixture, then slowly add sparkling water, allowing it to create natural layers. Garnish with a fresh peach slice and a piece of crystallized ginger.

For the best results, ensure all components are well-chilled before combining. The ginger syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, while the peach puree should be used within 24 hours to maintain its fresh flavor and prevent oxidation. If fresh peaches aren't available, high-quality frozen peaches can be substituted, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup peach nectar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Peach slices and crystallized ginger for garnish

Virgin Passion Fruit Bellini

A Virgin Passion Fruit Bellini is a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative to the classic Italian cocktail. This refreshing mocktail combines the tropical sweetness of passion fruit with the effervescence of sparkling apple cider or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, creating a perfect balance of flavors that's suitable for any time of day.

Originally created at Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy, this alcohol-free version maintains the elegant presentation and complex taste profile of its famous predecessor. The vibrant yellow-orange hue and natural tanginess of passion fruit make this mocktail a stunning addition to breakfast, brunch, or any special celebration where you want to serve something extraordinary yet alcohol-free.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe passion fruits
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup
• 1 cup chilled sparkling apple cider or non-alcoholic sparkling wine
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon passionfruit juice (store-bought, if fresh isn't available)

Cut each passion fruit in half and scoop out the pulp and seeds into a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Press the pulp through the strainer to extract the juice, discarding the seeds. In a champagne flute or tall glass, combine the passion fruit juice with simple syrup. Slowly pour in the chilled sparkling apple cider or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, tilting the glass slightly to maintain the bubbles.

For best results, chill all ingredients thoroughly before mixing. The mocktail can be prepared up to 15 minutes in advance, but add the sparkling component just before serving to preserve the effervescence. If using store-bought passion fruit juice, adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste, as commercial juices often contain added sugars.

Watermelon-Basil Refresher

The Watermelon-Basil Refresher offers a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative that captures the essence of summer in every sip. This vibrant mocktail combines the natural sweetness of fresh watermelon with aromatic basil leaves, creating a refreshing beverage that's perfect for morning brunches or afternoon gatherings.

The key to this mocktail's success lies in using perfectly ripe watermelon and fresh basil leaves. The combination creates a beautiful pink hue with subtle herbal notes, making it as visually appealing as it's delicious. When garnished with a watermelon wedge and basil sprig, this drink becomes an Instagram-worthy creation.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 6-8 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup
• Sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Watermelon wedges and basil sprigs for garnish

Place the watermelon cubes in a blender and process until smooth. Strain the watermelon puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp. In a mixing glass, muddle the basil leaves with simple syrup until the leaves release their oils. Add the strained watermelon juice and lime juice to the muddled basil mixture. Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and pour the watermelon-basil mixture until the glasses are 3/4 full. Top with sparkling water and gently stir.

For best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before preparation. The watermelon puree can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Adjust the amount of simple syrup based on the natural sweetness of your watermelon, and consider using honey as an alternative sweetener for a different flavor profile.

Golden Turmeric Wellness Elixir

The Golden Turmeric Wellness Elixir is a vibrant, health-focused mocktail that combines the ancient healing properties of turmeric with modern mixology techniques. This sunrise-inspired drink delivers a powerful blend of anti-inflammatory ingredients while offering a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative for morning gatherings or wellness-focused events.

This carefully crafted beverage layers fresh citrus notes with earthy turmeric and a hint of sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile that awakens the senses. The addition of black pepper enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, making this not just a delicious drink but also a functional wellness tonic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups coconut water
• 1 orange, freshly juiced
• 1 lemon, freshly juiced
• 2 tablespoons fresh turmeric root, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, grated
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Ice cubes
• Orange slices and fresh mint for garnish
• Sparkling water

Combine the coconut water, fresh orange juice, and lemon juice in a large pitcher. In a separate small bowl, mix the grated turmeric and ginger with honey until well combined. Add this mixture to the pitcher and stir thoroughly until the honey has completely dissolved. Add the black pepper and stir again.

Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibrous particles from the turmeric and ginger. Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, pour the turmeric mixture until they're 3/4 full, and top with a splash of sparkling water for effervescence. Garnish with orange slices and fresh mint leaves.

For best results, prepare the base mixture at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The turmeric mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the vibrant color and fresh flavors are most potent within the first 24 hours. If using ground turmeric instead of fresh, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon, as dried spices are more concentrated than fresh.

Berry-Lavender Morning Mist

A refreshing and sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage, the Berry-Lavender Morning Mist combines the sweet tartness of mixed berries with the delicate floral notes of lavender. This mocktail captures the essence of a misty sunrise, with layers of color that transition from deep purple to soft pink, topped with a light, ethereal foam.

Perfect for brunch gatherings or a peaceful morning ritual, this drink offers a balanced blend of flavors that awaken the senses. The natural sweetness of berries is complemented by the subtle botanical essence of lavender, while sparkling water adds effervescence that makes each sip feel special and celebratory.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• Sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh berries and lavender sprigs for garnish
• 1 egg white (or 2 tablespoons aquafaba for vegan option)

First, prepare the lavender-honey syrup by combining water, honey, and dried lavender in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until honey dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes, then strain and cool completely. In a blender, puree the mixed berries until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.

To assemble the mocktail, combine 2 ounces of berry puree, 1 ounce of lavender-honey syrup, and 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. In a separate shaker, dry shake the egg white until frothy. Combine both mixtures and shake again with ice. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with fresh berries and a lavender sprig.

For the best results, ensure all ingredients are properly chilled before mixing. The lavender-honey syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If using frozen berries, thaw them completely before pureeing to achieve the right consistency. The egg white foam is optional but adds a luxurious texture and presentation to the drink.

Orange-Rosemary Spritzer

The key to this spritzer's success lies in the quality of its ingredients and the careful balance between sweet and herbaceous flavors. Fresh-squeezed orange juice provides a superior taste compared to store-bought alternatives, while the rosemary simple syrup adds depth and complexity without overwhelming the drink's refreshing nature.

To prepare the rosemary simple syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely, then add 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary. Remove from heat and let steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain and cool completely before use.

For each serving, fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour 1/2 cup fresh orange juice and 2 tablespoons of rosemary simple syrup over the ice. Top with 1/2 cup sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and orange slice.

• Fresh orange juice (2 cups)
• Rosemary simple syrup (1/2 cup)
• Sparkling water (2 cups)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (4-6 sprigs)
• Ice cubes
• Orange slices for garnish
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup, for simple syrup)
• Water (1/2 cup, for simple syrup)

For best results, chill all ingredients before mixing. The rosemary simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To adjust sweetness, start with less syrup and add more to taste. For a more intense rosemary flavor, gently muddle a small sprig of fresh rosemary in the glass before adding other ingredients.

Cucumber-Lime Energy Boost

Cucumber-Lime Energy Boost is a refreshing and invigorating mocktail that combines the crisp freshness of cucumber with the zesty punch of lime. Perfect for morning gatherings or as a pre-workout beverage, this drink provides natural energy without the crash that comes from caffeinated alternatives.

This mocktail not only tastes delightful but also offers numerous health benefits. Cucumber provides hydration and essential minerals, while lime adds vitamin C and antioxidants. The addition of mint leaves and honey creates a balanced flavor profile that awakens the senses and prepares you for the day ahead.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cucumber, peeled
• 2 fresh limes
• 8-10 mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup coconut water
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Cucumber slices and mint sprigs for garnish

Begin by juicing the cucumber in a juicer or blending it in a high-speed blender and straining through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp. Squeeze the limes to extract their juice. In a pitcher, combine the cucumber juice, lime juice, and honey, stirring until the honey completely dissolves. Add the coconut water and gently stir to combine.

When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cucumber-lime mixture until they're about three-quarters full. Top off each glass with sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with fresh cucumber slices and mint sprigs.

For best results, prepare the base mixture (excluding sparkling water) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain maximum fizz. If the honey is too thick to mix easily, warm it slightly by placing the container in warm water for a few minutes before incorporating it into the drink.

Pomegranate-Apple Sunrise Punch

This vibrant and refreshing mocktail combines the sweet-tart flavors of pomegranate and apple to create a stunning sunrise effect in your glass. Perfect for brunches, celebrations, or any time you want an elegant non-alcoholic beverage option, this punch delivers both visual appeal and delicious taste.

The layered effect is achieved through careful pouring and the different densities of the juices, creating a gradient from deep red at the bottom to a lighter orange-pink at the top. The addition of sparkling water adds a festive effervescence that makes this mocktail feel special and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pomegranate juice
• 2 cups apple juice
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 cups sparkling water
• 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
• Ice cubes
• Orange slices for garnish
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish

In a large pitcher, combine the pomegranate juice and apple juice, stirring gently to mix. Fill individual glasses with ice cubes, then slowly pour the juice mixture until glasses are about two-thirds full. Carefully add a splash of grenadine syrup, allowing it to sink to the bottom. Top each glass with sparkling water, pouring slowly over the back of a spoon to create the layered effect.

For best results, serve this mocktail immediately while the bubbles are fresh and the layers are distinct. Keep the sparkling water chilled until the last moment, and have your garnishes ready before assembly. Consider using clear glasses to showcase the beautiful color gradient, and gently stir before drinking to combine all the flavors.

Blueberry-Lemon Morning Tonic

This vibrant blueberry-lemon morning tonic offers a refreshing start to any day, combining the antioxidant-rich benefits of blueberries with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh lemon. The natural sweetness of blueberries is perfectly balanced by the tart lemon, creating a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage that's both healthy and delicious.

The drink's beautiful gradient effect, reminiscent of a sunrise, makes it an excellent choice for brunches or morning gatherings. This mocktail can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it convenient for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 2 fresh lemons
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 4 cups sparkling water
• 1 cup ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons warm water

In a small bowl, combine honey with warm water and stir until completely dissolved. In a blender, puree the blueberries until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp. Juice the lemons and combine with the honey mixture and grated ginger in a large pitcher. Add the strained blueberry puree and stir gently.

Fill serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour the blueberry-lemon mixture halfway up each glass, then slowly top with sparkling water. Gently stir once to create the gradient effect. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

For the best results, use fresh blueberries rather than frozen ones, as they provide a brighter flavor and better color. The drink can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, but add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain carbonation. To create a more pronounced sunrise effect, pour the sparkling water over the back of a spoon held just above the juice mixture.

Tropical Pineapple-Mint Breeze

The Tropical Pineapple-Mint Breeze is a refreshing non-alcoholic alternative that captures the essence of a beachside paradise. With its vibrant layers and invigorating combination of fresh pineapple and mint, this mocktail delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that dance on your taste buds.

This eye-catching drink features a stunning gradient effect, transitioning from deep red at the bottom to a golden yellow at the top, reminiscent of a tropical sunrise. The addition of fresh mint leaves adds an aromatic dimension while the combination of fruit juices creates a complex flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 2 oz orange juice
• 1 oz grenadine syrup
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 pineapple wedge (for garnish)
• 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
• Fresh mint sprig (for garnish)

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves gently to release their essential oils. Add the pineapple juice and orange juice, then fill the shaker with crushed ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling. Fill a tall glass with crushed ice and slowly strain the mixture into it.

To create the sunrise effect, carefully pour the grenadine syrup down the inside of the glass. The syrup will naturally sink to the bottom, creating a beautiful gradient effect. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry, and a sprig of fresh mint.

For best results, use freshly squeezed juices whenever possible, as they provide superior flavor compared to bottled alternatives. The drink should be served immediately to maintain its layered appearance and prevent the ice from diluting the flavors. To enhance the mint flavor, you can also lightly clap the mint sprig between your palms before using it as a garnish, which releases more of its aromatic oils.

Dragon Fruit & Coconut Splash

The Dragon Fruit & Coconut Splash is a vibrant, non-alcoholic tropical beverage that combines the subtle sweetness of dragon fruit with creamy coconut for a stunning sunrise effect. The drink's striking pink-to-white gradient creates an Instagram-worthy presentation while delivering a refreshing taste perfect for summer gatherings or poolside relaxation.

This mocktail draws inspiration from Southeast Asian flavors, where dragon fruit grows abundantly and coconut is a dietary staple. The addition of lime juice adds brightness, while a touch of honey balances the tartness and helps create a smooth flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Blend the peeled dragon fruit with coconut water and honey until completely smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds. In a separate bowl, whisk the coconut cream until it becomes slightly fluffy but still pourable. Fill tall glasses with crushed ice, then carefully pour the dragon fruit mixture until the glass is half full.

Gently layer the coconut cream mixture over the dragon fruit base by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon, allowing it to float on top of the pink layer. This technique creates the signature sunrise effect. Top with coconut flakes, small pieces of dragon fruit, and a sprig of fresh mint.

For best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before preparing the mocktail. The dragon fruit mixture can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but the layering should be done just before serving to maintain the distinct gradient effect. If the coconut cream is too thick, thin it slightly with additional coconut water to achieve the ideal pouring consistency.

• 1 ripe pink dragon fruit, peeled
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• Coconut flakes for garnish
• Dragon fruit pieces for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Strawberry-Vanilla Bean Fizz

The Strawberry-Vanilla Bean Fizz is a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage that captures the essence of summer in every sip. With its delicate balance of fresh strawberries and real vanilla bean, this mocktail delivers a refined drinking experience that's perfect for special occasions or elegant brunches.

This fizzy creation takes inspiration from classic Italian sodas but elevates the concept with fresh ingredients and careful preparation. The vanilla bean adds depth and complexity to the sweet strawberries, while the sparkling water provides a refreshing effervescence that makes this drink truly memorable.

Ingredients:

• 6 fresh strawberries, plus more for garnish
• 1 vanilla bean pod
• 2 tablespoons pure cane sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, vanilla bean seeds, and sugar, then muddle thoroughly until the strawberries release their juices and the sugar begins to dissolve. Add the lemon juice and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract all the liquid while leaving the solids behind.

To assemble the mocktail, fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the strawberry-vanilla mixture over the ice, filling the glass about one-third full. Top with club soda or sparkling water, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves.

For best results, prepare the strawberry-vanilla base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop fully while ensuring the drink can be assembled quickly when needed. Avoid over-muddling the strawberries, as this can make the mixture too pulpy and affect the final texture of the mocktail.