Gen Z is accused of “ruining” a lot of things, and one of those is the culture around alcohol. As Forbes reports, Gen Z-ers don’t drink as much as previous generations, down 20% from Millenials, who were also down from Gen X-ers. But just because a lot of Gen Z are sober curious doesn’t mean we don’t want to have fun drinks or a good time. It just means cocktails are out and mocktails are in. The mocktail has endless potential, from the variety of the drinks themselves to possible accouterments and accompanying activities. And the best part is that they can be enjoyed by anyone.
What You Need To Make A Mocktail
As the world of mocktails is wide (and ever expanding), there are some entry level things to know about mocktails.
First off, mocktails come in one of two broad styles — the ones that use non-alcoholic booze-mimicking replacements and those that don’t. You may come to find you prefer one style over the other, especially since non-alcoholic drinks are an acquired taste. But if you’re not yet 21, be wary of non-alcoholic replacements because not all states allow minors to buy (or even consume) them. Fret not though: you don’t need the replacements to make mocktails. Personally, I find they’re better without them.
If you are interested in making mocktails from home, you’re gonna need a few things, starting with access to a plethora of ice. As for appliances, it depends, as different supplies are needed for different kinds of mocktails. For a slush consistency, you’re going to need a blender, preferably a big blender (as opposed to a mini) so that it can actually blend all that ice up. Mocktails with a regular drink consistency are much more accessible because really you just need something you can shake. Sure, you could be all professional with an actual cocktail shaker. But a mason jar or a good lidded cup will do just fine.
Mocktail Recipes To Have On Hand
Now, let’s get to shaking our mocktail shakers and making some drinks. Mocktails can be as simple or as complex as you want, and the internet is rife with recipes. Mocktail influencers are out there if you’re interested in getting really creative. There’s even a Reddit forum, r/mocktails, for all things mocktail.
But let’s start with the basics. Grocery stores sell frozen drink mixers intended to be used in making cocktails, but they work as mocktail mixes too. Bacardi and Daily’s are some of the more popular brands, but there are plenty to choose from (both in brand and flavor). Personally, I’m a piña colada kind of gal. Follow the instructions on the package and simply don’t add alcohol. Boom! A mocktail that’s simple, easy, and very refreshing (all without any consequences).
And it can be even simpler, because these days they make mocktails in a can. If you’re feeling lazy (maybe that blender is just too far), all you have to do is pop open a can and sip away.
But if you want to level up in the mocktail world, you’ve got options. As I already alluded to, the internet is a treasure trove for mocktail making, and you can get pretty in depth with advanced mocktail recipes if that’s your thing. Fruits, juices, non-alcoholic alternatives, sparkling waters, syrups, sorbets, spices — it can get pretty wild out there, to the point where it’s kind of overwhelming. Lucky for you, I’ve got you covered with a few recipes (that are tested and certified delicious, according to me) ranging in difficulty, on the house.
Pucker up, because this mock margarita is punchy with a side of tang. It’s strong, bright, and very limey. If you’re a fan of sour patch kids, this is the mocktail for you. And it couldn’t be easier to make — just a few ingredients and a blender needed (though I’d recommend adding a splash more orange juice to mellow the drink out slightly). If you’re not careful, this drink will have you wasting away in Margaritaville without even taking a sip of alcohol.
Love is in the air (romantic or platonic), and not just on Valentine’s day because this sweet, girly, and playful drink is spectacular any day of the year. The vibrant mocktail is far more than just fancy lemonade — it delights the palate with fruit and citrus flavors and bubbly consistency that makes you feel like you’re drinking sparkles. Plus, the flavor changes as you drink because the sorbet melts and mixes into the drink. It’s truly a dazzling addition to any girl’s night in. And no blender required!
If you’re looking for something a little more elegant, this tropical Southern Living mocktail is for you. The mint and pineapple concoction is incredibly refreshing and nicely tart. Plus it was built to serve looks as the egg white creates a froth atop the drink — both your eyes and taste buds will be enchanted by this mocktail. And I highly recommend actually serving it in coupe glass if you can because I swear, the glass made the drink taste even better.
What To Pair With Mocktails
If you have a mocktail in one hand, then you still have a free hand that needs filling. That’s where snacks come in, because sipping is better when you’re also snacking. Finger foods and small bites are ideal pairings for mocktails.
Fruits are always a solid option. If you’re serving a drink centered around a certain fruity flavor, like pineapple, you could pair with similar flavors like tropical fruits. Fruit keeps it casual and is something pretty much everyone can enjoy.
You could also go for complimentary flavors, like raspberry drinks served with chocolate for contrasting flavor profiles. A sweet drink with a savory side — chips and dip, bruschetta, small savory skewers, cheese and crackers, nuts. Though sweet and sweet is not off limits either. Go for some caramel popcorn or chocolate covered pretzels (or anything chocolate covered really — fruits, snacks, bacon. Yes, chocolate covered bacon is a thing and it’s fantastic).
Snacks aren’t the only thing that go well with mocktails. Shake up your mocktails with decor — make drinking mocktails entertaining and an experience to remember. Serve your mocktails in fun cups and use garnishes, both edible and non edible. Fruits and small foods and sweet or savory rims feed the mouth while mini umbrellas, flowers, and fancy cocktail picks feed your eyes. Drinks that are satisfying to look at and taste are always a win.
How To Throw A Mocktail Party
Cocktail parties? Mmm, how about mocktail parties? Sober parties are often considered boring, but they don’t have to be — they're only boring if you make them boring. Just because parties don’t have alcohol doesn’t mean they have to be void of fun beverages. Plus, for mocktail parties, any time is 5 o’clock and Tuesday is as good as a Friday. So put some effort into the sober curious experience! Host parties and events specifically designed for and around mocktails and you’ll have yourself the good time you’re looking for.
Instead of wine and powerpoint nights, have mocktail and powerpoint nights. Or spend a casual evening with friends glued to the blender, experimenting with mocktail recipes. Add in snacks and plenty of juicy gossip and you’re golden. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, get in on internet cocktail trends, like the themed drink nights where everyone brings a tray of drinks based on a theme like colors or movies, and just do mocktails instead. Holiday parties, summer BBQs, girl’s nights in — they can all get in on the mocktail experience.
And for the sober curious college kids out there, there are options for you too. Borgs are all the rage for current college students, but they’re not for everyone. Fortunately, you don’t have to be left out of the current college experience just because drinking isn’t your thing. Simply make your borg a mocktail borg — if you want to spend your night drinking a virgin strawberry daiquiri or (not) vodka cran, you can. And should, because treating yourself is important.