Paul Kushner
The Strawberry Sunrise Mocktail is a colorful, fruity drink that’s as refreshing as it looks. It starts with fresh orange juice poured over ice, then layered with muddled fresh strawberry or syrup to create that beautiful “sunrise” effect. The sweet strawberry blends naturally with the citrusy orange, giving it a smooth, balanced flavor that’s not too tart or too sweet. You can top it with a splash of sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for extra fizz. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or orange slice for a fun, easy mocktail that’s perfect for brunch, parties, or sunny afternoons.
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Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Sunrise Mocktail is a fruity, fizzy, and fun non-alcoholic drink that captures the colors and flavors of a summer morning. Fresh strawberries bring juicy sweetness, orange juice adds a sunny citrus zing, and strawberry sparkling water lifts the drink with berry-forward bubbles. A splash of Sprite adds a playful pop of sweetness and fizz. It’s light, refreshing, and vibrant—perfect for warm-weather sipping with a bright, layered look that mimics a sunrise in your glass.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a muddler (or the back of a spoon) to crush the strawberries and a jigger to measure your liquids. A bar spoon helps stir gently without flattening the bubbles. Serve in a highball or Collins glass to highlight the colorful, sparkling layers. A cocktail pick or tongs will help with garnish placement.
Ingredients
- 3 fresh strawberries
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz strawberry sparkling water
- Sprite, to top
- Orange slice and strawberry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle the Strawberries: In the bottom of your glass, muddle the fresh strawberries to release their juice and flavor.
- Add Juice and Ice: Pour in the orange juice and fill the glass with ice.
- Top with Bubbles: Add strawberry sparkling water and a splash of Sprite. Stir gently.
- Garnish: Add an orange slice and a whole strawberry for a bright, summery look.
Pro Tips
- Make it slushy by blending with ice for a frozen treat.
- Use chilled ingredients to keep the drink colder, longer without dilution.
- For extra berry flavor, add a spoonful of strawberry purée or a splash of strawberry syrup.
- Want a layered look? Add the Sprite last by pouring it gently down the back of a spoon.
When to Serve
Perfect for brunches, baby showers, summer cookouts, or any celebration that calls for a bright and bubbly refreshment, this cheerful alcohol-free drink is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Its sweet, fruity flavor and fizzy finish make it a fun and festive option for both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it in punch bowls or individual glasses, it adds a splash of color and joy to any table.
Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable with fresh fruit or herbs, it’s an ideal choice when you want something light, flavorful, and inclusive for everyone to enjoy.
Recommended Brands to Use
- Strawberries: Use ripe, fragrant berries for the best flavor
- Strawberry sparkling water: Spindrift, LaCroix, or Bubly
- Orange juice: Simply Orange, Natalie’s, or fresh-squeezed
- Sprite: Original or Sprite Zero, depending on sweetness preference
Similar Mocktails
- Cranberry Kombucha Mocktail
- Cherry Collins Mocktail
- Grapefruit Mimosa Mocktail
- Pineapple Blueberry Margarita Mocktail
- Apricot Lemonade Mocktail
