Many Vanderbilt students remain under the legal age to purchase alcohol, perhaps leaving some to feel left out of Music City’s bar-hopping culture. However, that does not mean the party is over, as there are many excellent “mocktails” that can still taste amazing without the liquor! Additionally, with this list being completely alcohol-free, these are great ideas of mixes you can serve to all your loved ones, regardless of lifestyle choices.
Warm ‘n’ cozy
Butterbeer
Straight out of a fantasy novel, this butterbeer will surely excite any Harry Potter fan! Add the richness with homemade butterscotch syrup and serve chilled, without ice, for optimal results. This cream soda creation perfectly matches your favorite Harry Potter book by the fireplace!
For a finishing touch, I recommend topping the cream with cocoa or espresso powder to add a unique tasting note to the beer.
Espresso martini
Perhaps one of the most famous combinations of alcohol and caffeine, the espresso martini has been a symbol of sophistication for decades. This recipe is perfect to serve friends coming over or even just as a treat for yourself!
If you do not own a cocktail shaker, you can easily use any clean container with a tight seal (such as a spare water bottle) that you can wash afterward. If espresso seems hard to come by, cold brew coffee can be an easier substitute, making this deliciously simple to make!
Similarly, eggnog martinis can also delight those sensitive to caffeine, creating a post-holiday season charm with a combination of nutmeg and vanilla.
Mulled cider
For a special occasion, this apple cider mocktail is sure to excite! Combining nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves into one mug, this drink is a symphony of spices alongside fresh apple cider. Served hot, this mix guarantees to feel extra special on cold nights.
Ensure to get non-spiked cider and consider adding a dash of honey for extra sweetness.
Virgin Irish coffee
Since coming to college, I have associated a frigid morning with coffee. Traditionally made with Irish whiskey, this non-alcoholic coffee will feel like an enhanced hot cocoa. Mixed with brown sugar and topped with whipped cream, this beverage promises to be decadent for any occasion.
Use strong coffee and homemade whipped cream for best results. One possible substitution to the recipe is replacing rum extract with an imitation to make this recipe truly zero-proof.
Tastes of spring
Blueberry & blackcurrant mule
If you’re like me, you love berries. This is why this mocktail mule is an absolute treat! Combining berries with mint and topping with ginger beer, this mix has a fiery kick. You can easily adjust the amount of ginger beer, creating an easy but vibrant drink for any party.
A potential replacement for the cordial is to use concentrated fruit syrup, which you can oftentimes find at international food markets.
Citrus mint
For a treat that’s quick and delicious, look no further. This citrus-mint mix makes an excellent mocktail for a refreshing celebration!
For garnish, I’d recommend rubbing a bit of the grapefruit juice on the rim of the glass, rimming the glass with brown sugar. This creates a beautiful appearance reminiscent of its alcoholic counterpart, becoming a perfect drink to prepare for the warmer spring ahead.
Pomegranate sparkler
While simple, this sparkler is sure to be amazing! The sweet-tartness of the pomegranate blends well with the texture of sparkling juice, making for an amazing all-around experience. Consider experimenting with various flavors of sparkling juice to narrow down your favorites. Great starting points are combinations with sparkling lemonade, cranberry juice or apple juice.
Rudolph’s mocktail
Adorned with custom ice cubes, “Rudolph’s Winter Mocktail” combines winter-themed apple cider with cranberries and pomegranates, composing a divine drink. Furthered by the addition of ginger beer and rosemary, this is a unique mocktail that is sure to impress your friends!
I recommend experimenting with fresh pomegranate juice instead of cranberry juice, providing a sweeter taste overall.
