Refreshing Sleepy Girl Tart Cherry Mocktail
A simple, calming, and refreshing tart cherry mocktail perfect for relaxing nights, made with tart cherry juice, sparkling water, lemon, and fresh mint.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 ounces unsweetened tart cherry juice
- 6 ounces sparkling water (plain or flavored)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 5–6 fresh mint leaves, lightly muddled
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes as needed
Instructions
- Rinse 5-6 fresh mint leaves under cool water and gently pat dry. Place them in your mixing glass or small pitcher.
- Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press the mint leaves, releasing their aroma and oils. Avoid over-muddling.
- Pour in 4 ounces (120 ml) of unsweetened tart cherry juice.
- Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of honey or agave syrup if desired for sweetness. Mix well.
- Fill your serving glass with ice cubes to the top.
- Slowly fill the glass with 6 ounces (180 ml) of chilled sparkling water, pouring gently to maintain fizz.
- Stir gently with a long spoon or stirrer to combine without flattening bubbles.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a thin lemon wheel on the rim. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not over-muddle the mint to avoid bitterness. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Pour sparkling water slowly to maintain fizz. Serve immediately for best taste and freshness. Adjust sweetness to taste with honey or agave syrup. The base (without sparkling water) can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approximate
- Calories: 6080
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 15
Keywords: tart cherry mocktail, sleep aid drink, caffeine-free beverage, relaxing drink, non-alcoholic cocktail, refreshing mocktail, mint mocktail