Spicy Thanksgiving Mocktail Margarita (Print Version)

Enjoy a vibrant, spicy drink with cranberry, citrus, jalapeño, and sparkling water. Ideal for festive fall occasions.

# What You'll Need:

→ Spicy Syrup

01 - 1/2 cup water
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

→ Mocktail Base

04 - 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
05 - 1/2 cup cranberry juice, unsweetened or reduced sugar
06 - 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
07 - 1/2 cup spicy syrup, cooled
08 - 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
09 - Ice cubes

→ Garnish

10 - Lime wedges
11 - Fresh cranberries
12 - Jalapeño slices (optional)
13 - Kosher salt or chili-lime salt (for rimming glasses)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine water, granulated sugar, and sliced jalapeño in a small saucepan. Simmer gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the jalapeño to steep for 10 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and let it cool completely.
02 - Moisten the rim of each glass with a lime wedge, then dip the rim into kosher salt or chili-lime salt. Set the glasses aside.
03 - Mix fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, orange juice, and the cooled spicy syrup in a large pitcher. Stir thoroughly to combine.
04 - Add ice cubes to each prepared glass, filling about halfway.
05 - Pour the mocktail blend over the ice, filling each glass about two-thirds full. Top off with sparkling water or club soda and stir gently.
06 - Garnish each glass with a lime wedge, several fresh cranberries, and an optional jalapeño slice.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses only fresh juices and pantry staples for a truly vibrant drink
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with no fancy tools required
  • Vegan and gluten-free so everyone at your table can enjoy
  • It works as a showstopper for celebrations but is easy enough for a weeknight treat
02 -
  • Totally alcohol free so it is safe for everyone at the party
  • High in Vitamin C from fresh citrus and cranberry
  • The spicy syrup can be made in advance to cut down on prep
03 -
  • Always use fresh juices for the biggest flavor impact: bottled just does not compare.
  • If you are nervous about spice start with half a jalapeño in the syrup and taste before committing. Strain your juices if you want a perfectly clear and polished look. And for the prettiest salt rim be sure your glasses are fully dry before rimming so it sticks just right.

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