Save to Pinterest A vibrant, alcohol-free margarita inspired by fall flavors, featuring fresh citrus, cranberry, and a touch of jalapeño for a festive, spicy twist—perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
I crafted this mocktail to celebrate autumn and provide an inclusive beverage for everyone at our Thanksgiving table. The combination of cranberry and jalapeño quickly became a new holiday favorite with my family.
Ingredients
- Spicy Syrup: 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 jalapeño (thinly sliced)
- Mocktail Base: 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes), 1/2 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or reduced sugar), 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed), 1/2 cup spicy syrup (from above, cooled), 1 cup sparkling water or club soda, Ice cubes
- Garnish: Lime wedges, Fresh cranberries, Jalapeño slices (optional), Kosher salt or chili-lime salt (for rimming glasses)
Instructions
- Make the spicy syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, and sliced jalapeño. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, let steep for 10 minutes, then strain and cool completely.
- Rim the glasses:
- Moisten the rim of each glass with a lime wedge, then dip into kosher salt or chili-lime salt. Set aside.
- Mix the bases:
- In a large pitcher, combine lime juice, cranberry juice, orange juice, and cooled spicy syrup. Stir well.
- Serve:
- Fill each prepared glass with ice. Pour the mocktail mixture over the ice, filling about two-thirds full.
- Top off:
- Top off each glass with sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cranberries, and an optional jalapeño slice.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping with the rimming and garnishing, turning it into a fun Thanksgiving tradition. Sharing these colorful drinks together always makes our celebration more memorable.
Required Tools
Small saucepan, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, citrus juicer, and glasses are all you need to create this festive drink.
Allergen Information
Free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. Always double-check labels if you're serving guests with allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 70, Total Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 0 g.
Save to Pinterest This Spicy Thanksgiving Mocktail Margarita is sure to impress your guests and bring festive flavor to your holiday table. Enjoy every refreshing sip!
Ask About This Recipe
- → How spicy is the margarita?
The heat level depends on how long you steep the jalapeño and whether you include seeds. Steeping less or removing seeds gives milder spice.
- → Can I use store-bought lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but store-bought juice works if needed.
- → What can I rim the glasses with?
Kosher salt, chili-lime salt, or even smoked salt can be used to rim the glasses for extra flavor.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients in this margarita are vegan and gluten-free. Always check juice and soda labels for hidden allergens.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
You can substitute agave nectar for sugar in the syrup or reduce the sugar amount to taste for a less sweet version.
- → How can I make it ahead?
Prepare the syrup and juice base ahead of time and refrigerate. Add sparkling water and ice just before serving for best results.