This virgin cosmo mocktail recipe will have you ordering cosNOpolitans at every bar!
Are you looking for a delicious mocktail recipe that tastes just like the classic cosmopolitan cocktail? Look no further!
I’m a bartender, and this was once my favorite alcoholic drink. But now I’ve perfected a virgin version of it that’s just as flavorful – without the alcohol.
This easy-to-follow recipe is sure to become one of your favorites too!
So let’s get started on making this tasty mocktail!
What is a cosmo drink made of?
An alcoholic cosmopolitan is a classic cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
This drink has a sweet yet tart flavor that makes it perfect for sipping on its own or as part of a larger drinks menu.
The combination of different liquors and juices creates an interesting balance between the sweetness from the triple sec and the tartness from the cranberry juice and lime.
A classic Cosmopolitan can be garnished with a slice of lime or even some fresh herbs for added flavor complexity.
It was first popularized during the Gay Rights movement but is now a drink that can be enjoyed in almost every bar.
Whether you are looking to refresh yourself after work or enjoy something special during happy hour, this delicious beverage will surely hit the spot!
I used to love ordering these with my mom when we’d travel together. It made me feel classy – like someone out of Sex and the City.
But since I stopped drinking, I could no longer enjoy the bright pink drink in a martini glass. And drinking juice out of a martini glass just doesn’t hit the same.
What flavor is a cosmo?
A cosmopolitan cocktail is a refreshing blend of sweet and sour flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The combination of tart citrus and sugary syrup creates an intense yet balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.
Its light pink hue further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a unique, sophisticated drink.
With just the right amount of sweetness and acidity, this classic beverage is sure to please all who indulge in it!
Does a cosmo have a lot of alcohol?
The traditional cosmopolitan cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that has become increasingly popular over the years.
It consists of vodka, orange liqueur (triple sec), cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
While there are many recipes for making this classic drink at home with varying levels of alcohol content depending on the ingredients used, traditionally it contains somewhere around 25% ABV (alcohol by volume).
It’s known for packing a punch without tasting like it’s very alcoholic – which makes it very dangerous for new drinkers. I once knocked back three in a night without thinking and paid for it dearly with my first hangover the next day.
The alcoholic spirits definitely take you by surprise in this cocktail!
Virgin Cosmopolitan Mocktail Ingredients
1/2 Cup Coconut Water: Coconut water is a naturally hydrating and refreshing beverage that adds a subtle, sweet flavor to this mocktail. It also provides electrolytes, vitamins and minerals that are essential for optimal health. This replaces the vodka in an alcoholic cosmopolitan cocktail.
1/8 Cup Orange Juice: This bright and tart addition helps bring out the tropical flavors in the mocktail. It also contains Vitamin C, which helps support the immune system. This replaces the orange liqueur in the alcoholic recipe.
1/8 Cup Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice is a common ingredient in many mocktails. It adds a tart flavor to the drink, as well as vitamins and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants.
1 Tbsp Lime Juice: Lime juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor to any mocktail. It also contains Vitamin C and other essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium. (Fresh lime juice is preferred. Juice the lime ahead of time and store it in a mason jar to use for various mocktail recipes.)
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a popular mocktail ingredient that adds a tart flavor. It also provides Vitamin C and other essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Ice: To chill the glass and the ingredients.
Optional Garnishes
To garnish this virgin cosmopolitan mocktail recipe, you have a few options:
- Frozen cranberries on a skewer
- Lime wheel, peel, or wedge
- Orange wheel
- Sugar the rim
- Orange peel
- Mint leaf
All of these options will elevate your virgin cosmo glass!
Best Glass for a Cosmo Mocktail
When it comes to making a delicious and refreshing virgin cosmopolitan mocktail, the glass you choose is just as important as the ingredients.
The ideal glass for this recipe is an 8-10 ounce martini or coupe glass.
This type of glass will provide enough room for all your ingredients while also allowing plenty of ice and garnish to be added without spilling over.
Furthermore, its classic shape gives any drink an elegant presentation that will leave everyone in awe!
With a good quality martini or coupe glass, you can make sure your virgin cosmopolitan mocktail looks as fabulous as it tastes!
I’ve also used a rocks glass in a pinch, or a gimlet glass for 20s themed party with these cranberry cosmo mocktails.
How to Chill a Glass
Chilling a martini glass is an essential step to making the perfect drink.
It ensures that both the drink and the glass are cold when served, creating a refreshingly crisp experience.
To properly chill your martini glasses, you should place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving your drinks.
Alternatively, you can fill each glass with ice cubes and water for about 10 minutes or until they become sufficiently chilled.
Either way, make sure to dry any condensation from the outside of each glass before pouring in your cocktail!
Shaking Your Cosmo Mocktail
Making a non-alcoholic cosmopolitan is easy with the right tools.
The most important tool you need is a cocktail shaker, which helps mix and chill your ingredients to create the perfect mocktail.
To make a delicious cosmopolitan, start by filling your shaker halfway with ice cubes and adding in 1/2 cup of coconut water, 1/8 cup of orange juice, 1/8 cup of cranberry juice, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 cup of ice.
Cover the top tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until all ingredients are well blended.
Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with an orange slice to serve!
Cosmo Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Coconut Water
- 1/8 Cup Orange Juice
- 1/8 Cup Cranberry Juice
- 1 Tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- Ice
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until cold. Strain and pour in a martini glass.1/2 Cup Coconut Water, 1/8 Cup Orange Juice, 1/8 Cup Cranberry Juice, 1 Tbsp Lime Juice, 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice, Ice