Turn cocktails into mocktails: 3 recipes

It’s Christmas party szn, and you’re hosting your mates—but not everyone’s about the boozy vibes. We’ve got you covered with mocktail versions of three classic cocktails. These recipes are festive, cheap, and easy enough to make even if your kitchen skills are… questionable.

1. Virgin mulled wine

‘Cos nothing says “Christmas” like sipping something warm and spicy. Fancy Christmas vibes for less than a fiver, what more could you want?

What you need:

• 1 litre grape juice

• 1 orange (sliced)

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 cloves (fancy, huh?)

• A sprinkle of sugar (optional)

Method:

1. Pour the grape juice into a pan and chuck in the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.

2. Simmer on low heat for 10–15 mins

3. Add some sugar to taste, strain the cloves, and serve it warm.

Image source

2. Christmas cranberry fizz

A mocktail that looks like it cost £££ but didn’t even break your meal deal budget. It’s giving main character vibes.

What you need:

• Cranberry juice

• Lemonade

• A lime (for juice and garnish)

Method:

1. Half-fill a glass with cranberry juice.

2. Top it up with lemonade.

3. Squeeze in a bit of lime juice, chuck a slice on top, and you’re done.

Image source

3. Mocktail mojito

A summery drink at Christmas? Why not? This minty fresh mocktail is a crowd-pleaser, no one will miss the alcohol.

What you need:

• Soda water

• Fresh mint leaves

• 1 lime

• Sugar (optional)

• Crushed ice

Method:

1. Squish the mint leaves, lime juice, and a teaspoon of sugar in a glass 2. Add crushed ice and top up with soda water

3. Stir it gently and throw in a mint leaf or lime slice for aesthetics

Image source