In today's dynamic world of beverages, mocktails are becoming a popular alcohol-free option. Modern diners and drinkers, whether for health, religious, or personal reasons, are increasingly opting for alcohol-free beverages that don’t skimp on taste or presentation. For restaurant and bar owners, this means an opportunity to tap into an expanding market. By introducing more mocktails to your menu, you're not just embracing this trend; you're setting the standard for your restaurant/ bar.

Why Mocktails Matter

Inclusivity

Many people may choose not to consume alcohol, and they deserve more than a generic fizzy drink. Mocktails offer an inclusive experience, allowing everyone to enjoy a crafted beverage.

Profit Potential

The ingredients for mocktails are often less expensive than their alcoholic counterparts. With the right presentation and ingredients, your drinks can still be worth as much as alcoholic drinks, meaning you can enjoy a higher profit margin.

Flexibility

Mocktails can be adapted to suit various cuisines, themes, or seasonal offerings, providing a dynamic range to your menu. From winter classics like eggnog to summer delights like strawberry mojitos, there’s always something fun and new you can add to the menu.

Easy Mocktail Recipes

Mocktails can be quite daunting to make if you have never tried them before. Here are three of the best mocktail recipes that are non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails. Each one is very quick and easy to make and tastes as refreshing as the original versions.

Blue Lagoon

Ingredients:

• 120 ml lemonade
• 60 ml Monin Syrup Blue Curacao
• 30 ml sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the lemonade, Monin Syrup Blue Curacao, and sparkling water.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Here are some other variations you can try:

• Add 15 ml of orange juice for a citrus twist.
• Top with 15 ml of grenadine for a pink lagoon.
• Garnish with a slice of pineapple and cherries for a pop of colour.

Pina Colada Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 120 ml pineapple juice
• 60 ml Coco Lopez cream of coconut
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the pineapple juice and Coco Lopez cream of coconut.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, if desired.

Here are some other variations you can try:

• Add 15 ml of lime juice for a tart twist.
• Top with 15 ml of coconut rum for a boozy version.
• Use frozen pineapple chunks for a slushy drink.
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge or shredded coconut. Get creative and enjoy!

Here are some tips for making the best Pina Colada Mocktail:

• Use fresh pineapple juice for the best flavour.
• Don't over-mix the drink, or else it will become watery.
• Garnish with a cocktail cherry or a pineapple wedge for an extra touch.

Passion Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 120 ml lemonade
• 60 ml Monin Fruit Puree Passion Fruit
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the lemonade and Monin Fruit Puree Passion Fruit.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Here are some other variations you can try:

• Add 15 ml of orange juice for a citrus twist.
• Top with 15 ml of grenadine for a pink cooler.
• Use sparkling water instead of lemonade for a lighter drink.
• Garnish with a passion fruit wedge or a sprig of mint. Get creative and enjoy!

Serving Your Mocktails

Using the best glassware for your mocktails plays a huge part in the overall appeal of your drink. It’s always important to prioritise the presentation of your mocktails as well as the taste. Here are the best glassware options for the mocktail recipes above.

The Blue Lagoon mocktail is best served in a hi-ball glass. These are tall, straight-sided glasses that are typically used for drinks with ice and a mixer. They are the perfect size for a Blue Lagoon mocktail as the tall, slender shape will help to show off the vibrant blue colour of the drink.

Pina Coladas are typically served in a unique large, tulip-shaped glass that is often used for tropical drinks. It is the perfect size to accommodate the creamy texture of the Pina Colada, and the wide mouth will allow the flavours to be fully appreciated.

For a fun and stylish presentation, the Passion Mocktail pairs perfectly with our range of cocktail jars. These are a fun way to serve a range of fruity drinks that are perfect for the summer. From Tennessee jars to copper mugs, they offer a refreshing change from regular glassware.

Mastering the Mocktail 

Creating the best mocktails isn't just about ingredients. Having the correct equipment to create your drinks ensures that making mocktails is efficient and releases the flavours from your ingredients to create refreshing drinks. Here are some essential tools you should use for the best mocktails:

Shakers: Essential for mixing ingredients perfectly. Choose from a variety of styles and sizes to create a well shaken mocktail.

Muddlers: Perfect for extracting flavours from fruits and herbs, this tool ensures a delicious and flavoursome drink while making the most of your ingredients. 

Strainers: Ensure a smooth pour every time, keeping out unwanted seeds or pulp. This is essential to ensuring the best mocktail drinking experience for your customers.

Embracing the mocktail trend isn't just about keeping up with consumer demands. It's about innovation, inclusivity, and adding value to your brand. With Cooksmill’s range of essential ingredients, glassware and mocktail-making equipment, you'll have access to everything you need to ensure that your mocktail menu is not just an afterthought but a standout feature.