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Raspberry Aperitif Mocktail

A bright, fresh mocktail that combines real raspberries, tart citrus, and sparkling water for a refreshing, low-calorie drink option.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Beverage, Mocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Raspberry Base
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener to taste Use 0 for no added sugar
Mocktail Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups sparkling water or club soda, chilled
  • lemon slices and extra raspberries for garnish
  • fresh mint for garnish (optional)
  • ice cubes

Method
 

Make the raspberry base
  1. In a small saucepan, add raspberries, water, and honey or sweetener if using. Bring to a low simmer and crush the berries with a spoon. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the fruit breaks down.
  2. If you prefer a raw, no-heat option, mash the raspberries in a jar with lemon juice and sweetener, let sit 10–15 minutes, then strain or keep the pulp for texture.
Strain (optional)
  1. For a clear mocktail, strain the cooked mix through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Press the solids to get all the juice. Discard seeds and pulp or save them for smoothies.
Cool the syrup
  1. Let the raspberry syrup cool to room temperature. If you used a raw mash, it is ready once the sweetener dissolves.
Build the drink
  1. In a tall glass or pitcher, add 2 tablespoons of raspberry syrup (more for sweeter drink), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and ice.
  2. Top with chilled sparkling water and stir gently. Adjust syrup to taste.
Garnish and serve
  1. Add a lemon slice, a few whole raspberries, and a mint sprig. Serve cold.

Notes

This mocktail is perfect as a lighter option with brunch or as a refreshing non-alcoholic aperitif. For meal prep, make the raspberry syrup up to 7 days ahead and keep it refrigerated. Serve in clear glasses to display the vibrant color.