Candy Cane Mocktail
The Candy Cane Mocktail is a fun and festive drink that's perfect for the holiday season. It blends the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint with a touch of sweetness and…
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The Candy Cane Mocktail is a fun and festive drink that’s perfect for the holiday season. It blends the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint with a touch of sweetness and fizz, making it feel like a little celebration in a glass. This mocktail usually features ingredients like crushed candy canes, sparkling soda, and a splash of cranberry or cherry juice, giving it that classic red and white look that reminds me of the holidays.
I love making this drink because it’s easy and brings back childhood memories of candy cane treats and holiday parties without any alcohol involved. One tip I always use is to rim the glass with crushed candy canes so each sip has a little extra peppermint sparkle. It feels like a special treat, and guests always ask how I made it!
My favorite way to serve the Candy Cane Mocktail is in clear glasses with a little peppermint stick or a candy cane to stir. It adds a festive touch and makes the drink feel extra exciting. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night by the fire, this mocktail always brings smiles and holiday cheer.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: This is the main source of tartness and color. Choose 100% juice without added sugar for a fresher taste. You can swap with pomegranate juice if you want a slightly different fruit flavor.
Peppermint Syrup: Peppermint sets the holiday mood here. If you don’t have syrup, you can dissolve crushed candy canes in warm water to make a quick syrup substitute.
Sparkling Water or Club Soda: Adds the fizzy sparkle that makes this mocktail lively. If you prefer a sweeter drink, try using a lemon-lime soda instead.
Crushed Candy Canes: These add festive crunch and peppermint flavor in both the rim and topping. For a milder crunch, you can use peppermint candy pieces or candy bark.
How Do You Rim the Glass with Crushed Candy Canes Without the Candy Falling Off?
Rimming your glass with crushed candy canes adds a fun texture and extra peppermint flavor. Here’s a simple way to do it right:
- Lightly moisten the rim of your glass using a lemon wedge or a bit of water. The rim needs just enough moisture to make the candy stick without making it soggy.
- Place crushed candy canes on a small plate and gently press the wet rim into the candy, rolling it around to get an even coating.
- Let the glass sit for a few minutes so the candy hardens slightly and sticks well before filling the glass.
- Try to avoid very large candy chunks, as they can fall off more easily. Fine crushed peppermint works best.
This little step really lifts the look and flavor of your mocktail, making it feel extra special and festive.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large festive glass – I like using wide glasses so the crushed candy cane rim shows off nicely.
- Small plate – perfect for holding crushed candy canes to rim your glass with ease.
- Measuring cups – to keep your juice and syrup amounts just right for balanced flavor.
- Spoon or stir stick – helps gently mix the mocktail without losing the fizz.
- Citrus wedge or small brush – handy for wetting the glass rim evenly before candy coating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use lemon-lime soda instead of sparkling water for a sweeter, more citrusy twist.
- Add a splash of orange juice for a fruity boost that pairs well with cranberry and peppermint.
- Swap cranberry juice with pomegranate juice to deepen the color and add natural tartness.
- Include fresh crushed mint leaves stirred in for extra freshness and a little herbal kick.
How to Make a Candy Cane Mocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Drink:
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1/4 cup peppermint syrup (or crushed peppermint candies infused in simple syrup)
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
For Garnish:
- 3 mini candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed candy canes for rimming and topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is just assembling and rimming the glass, so you can serve it quickly for your guests to enjoy fresh and fizzy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by lightly wetting the rim of a large festive glass with water or a lemon wedge. Then, dip the rim into crushed candy canes so it gets fully coated. Set the glass aside for a minute to let the candy stick.
2. Add Ice and Mix Ingredients:
Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice. Pour the cranberry juice and peppermint syrup over the ice.
3. Top Off and Stir:
Add the sparkling water or club soda to fill the glass. Stir gently to mix all the flavors without losing the fizz.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the drink for a festive touch. Hang 2-3 mini candy canes on the glass rim and add a sprig of fresh mint for extra color and flavor. Serve right away with a straw or peppermint stick for stirring.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberry Juice for This Mocktail?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberry juice concentrate, but make sure to thaw it completely before using. You may want to adjust the sweetness by tasting and adding a bit of water or syrup accordingly.
How Do I Make Peppermint Syrup at Home?
Simply dissolve equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, then add crushed peppermint candies or fresh peppermint leaves. Let it simmer for a few minutes, strain, and cool before using.
Can I Prepare This Mocktail Ahead of Time?
It’s best to prepare the cranberry and peppermint syrup mixture ahead and keep it refrigerated. Add the sparkling water and ice just before serving to keep the drink fizzy and refreshing.
How Should I Store Leftover Candy Cane Mocktail?
Keep leftover cranberry and peppermint mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-stir before using, but avoid storing the sparkling water mixed in to preserve fizz.
