This refreshing, fruity mocktail is one of my favorite go-to drinks when I want something light, bubbly, and fun-especially on warm afternoons or when I’m hosting friends. The Kitty is bright, not too sweet, and just the right mix of tart and fizzy. It looks gorgeous in a tall glass and feels fancy without any alcohol involved. I’ve made this drink countless times, and over the years I’ve learned a few tricks to really make it shine.
Kitty Non Alcoholic
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (easily multiplied for a crowd)
Ingredients
– 4 oz (120 ml) ginger ale
– 2 oz (60 ml) cranberry juice
– 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice
– A dash of fresh lime juice (about 1/4 tsp)
– Ice cubes
– Lime or orange slice, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
– Highball glass or a fun mason jar
– Bar spoon or long-handled spoon for stirring
– Jigger or measuring cups
Method
- Fill your glass halfway with ice cubes. This helps chill the drink without watering it down too quickly.
- Pour in the cranberry juice and orange juice. These give the drink its signature color and sweet-tart base.
- Squeeze in a dash of fresh lime juice. It brightens up the whole drink-don’t skip this part.
- Top everything off with ginger ale. You’ll hear that lovely fizz right away.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix. Don’t overdo it-you want to keep the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lime or orange slice on the rim if you like. It adds a nice touch of color and a hint of aroma with each sip.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the cranberry, orange, and lime juices ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just pour over ice and top with ginger ale so it stays fizzy.
Tips & Substitutions
– Juice swaps: Don’t have cranberry juice? Try pomegranate or even apple juice for a different twist.
– Lighter version: Use sparkling water instead of ginger ale for less sweetness.
– Fresh juice tip: If you can, use freshly squeezed orange and lime juice-it really makes a difference in flavor.
– Avoid this: Don’t add the ginger ale too early if you’re prepping ahead. It’ll go flat and lose that lovely sparkle.
How It Tastes
The Kitty has a fruity base that’s sweet but not syrupy, with a little zing from the lime and a refreshing sparkle from the ginger ale. It’s balanced and crisp-perfect for sipping slowly on a sunny day or as a fun alternative during a party.
I love how this drink works for just about any occasion. It’s one of those recipes that feels special, but is simple enough to whip up anytime.
Serving Suggestions
This drink pairs beautifully with:
Light Salads
Try it with a citrusy green salad or one with berries and goat cheese. The fruity notes in the Kitty echo the salad’s freshness.
Grilled Chicken
The caramelized edges of grilled chicken balance well with the tart sweetness of the drink.
Seafood
Great with shrimp tacos or a grilled white fish. The Kitty cuts through the richness and keeps things light.
Variations to Try
Tropical Kitty
– Swap the orange juice for pineapple juice
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge for extra flair
Berry Blast Kitty
– Add a spoonful of mashed mixed berries (like raspberries or blueberries)
– Stir them into the juices before topping with ginger ale
Herbal Kitty
– Add a splash (about 1/2 tsp) of rosemary or lavender syrup
– Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs for a fragrant finish
Helpful Tips
– Try a few different brands of ginger ale-some are sweeter, others spicier.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing drink.
– Want a more grown-up twist? Add a dash of bitters (still alcohol-free in small amounts) to bring out deeper flavors.
Storage
If you’re making a big batch, mix the juices in a pitcher and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add ginger ale and ice right before serving to keep it bubbly and cold.
Common Questions
Can kids drink this?
Absolutely. It’s a fun, fizzy treat that feels fancy but has no alcohol at all.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes! Use diet ginger ale and unsweetened juices. It won’t be quite as sweet, but it’ll still taste great.
What kind of ginger ale should I use?
Go with what you like! Some are milder and sweeter, while others have a spicier ginger kick. Try a few to see what suits your taste.
Can I scale this up?
Yes-just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Use a large pitcher and stir gently. Don’t add ice or ginger ale until just before serving.
Any health perks?
Definitely. Cranberry juice is full of antioxidants, orange juice brings vitamin C, and ginger ale can be soothing for digestion.
Final Thoughts
The Kitty Non Alcoholic is one of those drinks that’s easy to love and easy to make. It’s colorful, refreshing, and totally customizable. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, sipping it on the porch, or offering it as a fun alternative at a party, it’s always a hit. Try out a few variations and make it your own-it’s the kind of recipe that’s just as fun to play with as it is to drink.
