The Mocktail: Fake It 'til You Make It

Many college students center their plans around drinking. But what happens when all your friends want a drink, and you’d prefer a dry evening? Is it possible to be included in activities and events involving drinking without a sip of alcohol? Enter The Mocktail.

As the perpetual “baby” of my friend group, I have become accustomed to being the designated “sober friend”. Fortunately for me, this has helped me become a mocktail connoisseur. I’m here to share some simple recipes that can be made in the comfort of a collegiate apartment and some that can be ordered while you’re out and about. 

For at Home

1) Lemon Cream Slushie

For the citrus lovers!

What you need:

• Simple Syrup

• ½ cup of water

• ½ cup of granulated sugar

• 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (8-10 lemons depending on how sour you prefer the taste)

• 5 cups of ice

• 2 sprigs of fresh mint for garnish (optional)

• A blender

Step 1: Pour syrup and lemon juice into a blender and add 5 cups of ice.

Step 2: Start blending on low and gradually increase the speed until completely blended and creamy.

Step 3: Pour into serving glasses and enjoy!

2) Mango Colada

Sweet and simple!

What you need:

• 2 chopped mangoes

• 1 cup of coconut milk

• 2 cups of coconut water

• Ice (as needed)

• A blender

Step 1: Place all ingredients and blend until smooth.

Step 2: Pour in serving glasses and enjoy!

3) Peach Delight

This one is perfect for a girls' night in, just make sure to set an hour aside to prepare!

What you need:

• Sparkling or still water (whichever you prefer)

• A stovetop

• A large pan

• A fine mesh sieve

• Ice (however much you prefer)

• For the peach honey syrup:

  • 3 peaches- cut into small pieces

  • 4 tablespoons of honey

  • 2 cups of still water

  • 2-3 mint leaves

Step 1:  Mix the peaches, still water, honey, and mint in a pan and boil. After 15 minutes, reduce it to a simmer.

Step 2:  With the back of a spoon, press the peaches against the side of the pan to release its juices. Set aside for 30 minutes, or until it's cooled.

Step 3:  Place a fine mesh sieve over a bowl and pour through the peach syrup. (You can discard the peach or save it for a snack later!)

Step 4:  Pour about 1/3 cup of peach syrup into glasses and then top with still/sparking water (whichever you prefer).

Step 5:  Add ice and garnish with mint.

For Ordering Out

Refreshing sips for nights out with friends...What to order at a bar or club when you want to stay dry?

1)   Virgin Margarita

2) Non-Alcoholic Moscow Mule

Ginger beer, lime juice, club soda, and a lime wedge garnish.

3)   Shirley Temple (A classic!)

Sweet Grenadine, ginger ale, and maraschino cherries.

4)   Virgin Mojito

Water, sugar, and tons of mint leaves!

5) Simple Syrup and Soda

Self-explanatory and delicious!

6) Virgin Piňa Colada

My personal favorite! Ask for a Piña Colada sans rum and you're good to go!

Quick Tips:

Here are some of my favorite tips, tricks, and substitutions to keep in mind while in pursuit of the perfect mocktail:

• Add liquids to the blender first
  

• Start blending on low and gradually increase to high

• To replace bourbon, use vanilla extract
  

• To replace sweet vermouth, use non-alcoholic wine and unsweetened apple juice

• For a twist on Shirley Temple: Substitute ginger ale with lemon-lime soda or orange juice

• You can substitute peaches with nectarines- they don't go bad as quickly as peaches do.
  

Happy sipping!