Description
A functional and delicious mocktail designed for relaxation and potentially promoting good sleep. This non-alcoholic spritz features tart cherry juice, fresh herbs, ginger, and a touch of maple syrup, topped with sparkling water.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary, plus more for garnish
- 1 knob fresh ginger (about 1/2 to 1 inch), grated
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves
- 0.5 ounce (1 tablespoon) pure maple syrup
- Pinch of ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) fresh lime juice
- 8 ounces (1 cup) 100% tart cherry juice
- Sparkling water (plain or citrus-flavored), chilled
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Muddle Herbs and Spices: In the bottom of a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, combine the maple syrup, grated ginger, mint leaves, 1 sprig of rosemary, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Gently muddle the ingredients together to release their aromas and flavors. Don’t pulverize the herbs.
- Add Juices: Add the fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, and tart cherry juice to the shaker.
- Shake: Add a few ice cubes to the shaker. Secure the lid tightly and shake well for about 15 seconds, or until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Prepare Glasses: Fill two glasses with ice cubes.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture from the shaker evenly into the two prepared glasses filled with ice.
- Top with Sparkling Water: Top off each glass with chilled sparkling water.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each drink with a fresh sprig of rosemary and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Tart Cherry Juice: Tart cherry juice is known for naturally containing melatonin, which may aid sleep. Look for 100% tart cherry juice without added sugar.
- Ginger: Grate the fresh ginger using a microplane or the fine side of a box grater.
- Muddling: Gently press and twist the herbs and ginger with the muddler to release their essential oils without tearing them into tiny pieces.
- Sweetness/Tartness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup, lemon juice, or lime juice to your preference.
- Sparkling Water: Plain sparkling water, club soda, or a citrus-flavored sparkling water works well.
- Storage: This mocktail is best enjoyed immediately.