If you’re like us, gathering for the holiday season is good for the soul. And we’re kicking off this weekend with our first Friendsgiving of the season! We’ve been scheming up some delicious mocktails & cocktails to share with you all.
This season, we’re taking a thoughtful approach to providing refreshing options for those who choose not to consume alcohol for various reasons. We’ve curated drinks that can be enjoyed as both mocktails and cocktails, making it a win-win for everyone!
Zesty Citrus Refreshment: Orange, Rosemary & Pomegranate Infused Water
Ingredients:
- 2 large oranges
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1.5 liters (about 6 cups) of cold water
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax.
- Slice one of the oranges into thin rounds. You can leave the peel on as it adds flavor, but make sure to remove any seeds.
- Squeeze the juice from the second orange and set it aside.
- Prepare the Pomegranate Seeds:
- Cut a pomegranate in half.
- Hold one of the halves over a bowl, cut side down.
- Using a wooden spoon or the back of a heavy spoon, tap the back of the pomegranate half to release the seeds (also known as arils) into the bowl.
- Collect about 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds and set them aside.
- Prepare the Rosemary:
- Wash the fresh rosemary sprigs and gently bruise them by lightly crushing them with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. This helps release the aromatic oils.
- Assemble the Infused Water:
- In a large pitcher, add the sliced orange rounds, pomegranate seeds, and bruised rosemary sprigs.
- Pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- Fill the pitcher with cold water. You can use plain cold water or add ice cubes for an extra chill.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Chill and Infuse:
- Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors of the fruits and herbs to infuse into the water, creating a delicious and refreshing beverage.
- Serve:
- When you’re ready to enjoy your infused water, you can strain it if you prefer, but it’s not necessary. The fruit and rosemary add a nice visual appeal to the water.
- Pour the infused water into glasses, garnish with additional rosemary sprigs, and add ice if desired.
- Sip and savor your Orange, Pomegranate, and Rosemary Infused Water on a hot day or whenever you need a tasty, hydrating beverage.
Feel free to adjust the quantities of fruit, rosemary, or water to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade infused water!
Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon (or Rum) Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or spiced rum
- 4 oz (120 ml) apple cider
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice
- Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon or spiced rum, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and maple syrup to the shaker.
- Put the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice. You can use a rocks glass or a highball glass, depending on your preference.
- If you like, garnish the cocktail with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for added aroma and presentation.
- Serve your apple cider cocktail and enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste. Some apple ciders and spirits may vary in sweetness, so you can make it a bit sweeter or less sweet as you prefer. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a crisp autumn evening. Enjoy responsibly!
