Sometimes a drink hits the spot without being sweet or heavy. The first time I made this Citrus and Bitters Fizz, it was after a long afternoon when I wanted something cold and refreshing but not sugary. The mix of citrus juice, bubbles, and bitters felt crisp and grown up in a way that surprised me.

Lime and lemon give it a sharp, clean base, simple syrup softens the edges, and bitters add depth without taking over. I love this because it feels like a pause button in a glass, especially when plain soda just is not cutting it. This recipe works well for casual evenings, dinner parties, or as a go to option when offering mocktails alongside cocktails. If you like mocktails that feel balanced and refreshing, this one fits right into your rotation without much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Citrus and Bitters Fizz

The Citrus and Bitters Fizz is one of those drinks that feels calm and refreshing from the first sip. It does not rely on fruit juice alone, which keeps it from being too sweet. Instead, it focuses on balance and clean flavors.

It is quick to make with minimal prep.
The flavor is crisp and refreshing rather than sweet.
It uses simple ingredients you may already have.
Bitters add depth without overpowering the drink.
It works well as a mocktail or light aperitif style drink.
It feels appropriate for both casual and dressed up settings.

Once you try it, it becomes a reliable option when you want something light but thoughtful. That balance is what makes it stand out among mocktails.

Ingredients

This recipe relies on a short list of ingredients that work well together. Each one has a clear purpose, and none of them compete for attention.

0.5 oz lime juice
0.5 oz lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
3 dashes Angostura bitters
4 oz sparkling water
Garnish: Lime wheel

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

While this recipe does not include liquor, the quality of mixers still matters. Choosing good bitters and sparkling water helps the drink taste clean and balanced. There are also easy substitutions if you want to adjust things slightly.

Angostura bitters: A classic choice that adds warm spice and depth.
Bitters alternative: Orange bitters offer a brighter, citrus forward finish.
Sparkling water: Brands like Topo Chico or San Pellegrino provide strong bubbles.
Simple syrup substitute: Honey syrup can add a softer sweetness.
Citrus swap: Grapefruit juice can replace lemon for a bolder profile.

These options give you room to experiment while keeping the core idea intact.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need much equipment to make this drink, which makes it easy to prepare at home or for guests. Basic bar tools work just fine.

A tall glass works best because it gives space for ice and bubbles. Clear glass also highlights the color and garnish, keeping the presentation simple and clean.

How to Make It

This Citrus and Bitters Fizz comes together quickly, but paying attention to the order helps keep the drink balanced. Each step builds on the last without adding extra work.

Fill a highball glass with ice until nearly full. This keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
Add the lime juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup directly over the ice.
Pour in the sparkling water, leaving a little space at the top.
Add three dashes of Angostura bitters on top.
Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation.
Garnish with a lime wheel before serving.

Pro Tips

These tips help you get the best results every time. They also make the drink easier to scale when serving more people.

Use fresh citrus juice for the cleanest flavor.
Add bitters last so they float slightly on top.
Stir gently to keep the bubbles intact.
Chill your glass ahead of time for extra refreshment.
Taste before serving to adjust balance.
Use quality ice to avoid off flavors.
Garnish right before serving for the best look.

Once you are comfortable, adjusting ratios becomes second nature.

Variations

This recipe works well as a base for small changes. If you enjoy mocktails with a clean finish, these variations keep things interesting.

Add a splash of grapefruit juice for extra bitterness.
Use orange bitters for a brighter aroma.
Replace simple syrup with agave for a lighter sweetness.
Add a rosemary sprig for a subtle herbal note.
Top with tonic water instead of sparkling water for more bite.

Each version keeps the drink refreshing while offering something new.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Citrus and Bitters Fizz fits moments when you want something light and refreshing. It works especially well before meals or alongside small bites.

Serve it as a pre dinner drink.
Offer it at gatherings as a non sweet mocktail option.
Pair it with salty snacks like nuts or olives.
Enjoy it with light appetizers or cheese boards.
Serve alongside other citrus based mocktails.

Its clean profile pairs best with foods that are not too rich.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink is best made fresh to keep the carbonation lively. It does not store well once mixed, but prep can still help.

You can juice citrus and make simple syrup ahead of time, storing both in the fridge. Assemble the drink just before serving to keep it crisp. Avoid batching with sparkling water, as it will lose fizz.

FAQs

If this style of drink is new to you, a few questions may come up. These answers should help clarify things.

Are bitters alcoholic?
Most bitters contain alcohol, but only a small amount is used.

Can I skip the bitters?
Yes, but the drink will be much simpler without them.

Is this drink very sour?
It is balanced, not sharp, thanks to the syrup.

Can I make it sweeter?
Add a bit more simple syrup to taste.

Is this considered a mocktail?
Many people enjoy it as a mocktail style drink due to the low alcohol content.

More Cocktails to Try

If you like this drink, there are other options with similar clean flavors worth exploring. These work well for fans of light mocktails.

Grape Raspberry Mocktail
Pink Lady Mocktail
Virgin Raspberry Mango Margarita Slushie
Shirley Temple Float
Strawberry Sunrise Mocktail