This alcohol-free twist on a timeless cocktail is all about bold flavor, balance, and a little bit of flair. The Old Fashioned Mocktail keeps things classic with just the right mix of sweetness, citrus, and bitters—minus the booze. Whether you’re cutting back, skipping alcohol altogether, or just want something a little fancy to sip on, this one’s a winner.
Old Fashioned Mocktail
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: the right balance between sweet and bitter makes all the difference. Don’t skip the orange twist—it brings everything together.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Glass: Rocks glass or lowball glass
Ingredients
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or honey syrup, see tips below)
– 3–4 dashes of aromatic bitters
– Ice cubes
– Sparkling water, to top
– Orange peel, for garnish
Method
- Pour the simple syrup and bitters into a rocks glass.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes. Stir gently for about 15–20 seconds to chill and mix everything.
- Top with a splash of sparkling water—just enough to lighten it up without watering it down.
- Use a vegetable peeler to slice off a strip of orange peel. Give it a gentle twist over the drink to release those fragrant oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t overdo the bitters—start with a few dashes and adjust to taste.
– If you’re using honey syrup, mix equal parts honey and warm water to thin it out. It adds a deeper, richer sweetness.
– Want to get that orange twist just right? Peel gently, avoiding too much of the white pith, which can taste bitter.
– For a smoother finish, use large clear ice cubes—they melt slower and look great too.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep the syrup and bitters combo ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just add ice, top with sparkling water, and finish with the orange twist.
Substitutions
– Swap simple syrup for agave or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
– Use flavored bitters like orange or cherry for a unique twist.
– Add a splash of non-alcoholic whiskey alternative if you want more depth.
What It Tastes Like
This mocktail hits a beautiful balance—sweet but not sugary, with a gentle bitterness and a bright burst of citrus. The orange twist gives it a clean, zesty aroma that makes each sip feel just a little bit fancy.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something flavorful without the buzz. It’s also great for brunches or dinner parties when you want to offer something special for non-drinkers.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Old Fashioned Mocktail with:
Spicy Appetizers
Think jalapeño poppers or spicy hummus. The sweet-bitter balance cools down the heat perfectly.
Grilled Meats
The citrus and bitters complement smoky flavors—try it with grilled chicken or steak skewers.
Rich Desserts
Chocolate lava cake or a dense brownie pairs beautifully. The mocktail cuts through the richness for a refreshing contrast.
Storage
If you have leftover syrup and bitters mix, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid storing the drink once it’s been mixed with ice or sparkling water—it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Variations to Try
Herbal Old Fashioned Mocktail
– Use rosemary syrup instead of simple syrup.
– Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for a woodsy aroma.
Spicy Old Fashioned Mocktail
– Add a dash of chili or habanero bitters.
– Garnish with a thin jalapeño slice for a little heat.
Summer Berry Old Fashioned Mocktail
– Muddle a few fresh berries in the bottom of the glass before adding syrup and bitters.
– Garnish with a berry skewer or a twist of lemon.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the syrup and bitters and keep it chilled. Add ice, sparkling water, and garnish just before serving.
Is there a sugar-free version?
Absolutely—try using a sugar-free simple syrup or a few drops of stevia.
Will kids like this?
They can drink it, but the bitters may be too strong for younger palates. You can reduce or skip the bitters and add a splash of orange juice instead.
What kind of bitters should I use?
Start with classic aromatic bitters. From there, try orange, cherry, or even chocolate bitters to see what you like.
How do I get a perfect orange twist?
Use a veggie peeler and gently twist the peel over the glass to release the oils—this adds tons of aroma.
Can I make it into a traditional Old Fashioned?
Sure! Just add 2 oz (60 ml) of your favorite whiskey and follow the same steps.
This mocktail is one of those drinks that proves you don’t need alcohol to enjoy something bold, balanced, and elegant. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or sipping it solo, it’s a simple pleasure that feels just a little bit fancy.
