Some mocktails are soft and sweet—this one is punchy, zesty, and alive. The Blackberry Citrus Smash was born from a craving for something bold, fresh, and layered, without leaning too sugary or flat. It’s all about rich fruit, bright citrus, and the clean bite of mint.
This drink is a personal favorite of mine for two reasons: first, it always impresses people at the first sip; second, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re shaking one up for yourself after work or batching a pitcher for guests, the flavor holds strong and never disappoints.
It’s alcohol-free, but make no mistake—it drinks like a real cocktail. Between the deep berry notes, minty aroma, and that bright citrus lift, you’ve got a complex, restaurant-worthy mocktail that’s simple enough for anyone to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 fresh blackberries
- 3-4 fresh mint leaves
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 oz orange juice (fresh or high-quality store-bought)
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and hot water)
- Sparkling water (unflavored or citrus-flavored)
- Crushed ice
- Lemon wheel and mint sprig, for garnish
Ingredients Breakdown
- Fresh blackberries: These bring a rich, tart sweetness that forms the base of the drink. Muddling them releases deep color and bold flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves: Mint adds brightness and aromatic complexity. A few leaves go a long way in layering the profile.
- Lemon juice: The acidity from lemon balances out the sweetness and wakes up the blackberries. Use fresh for best results.
- Orange juice: A hint of orange adds smooth citrus depth and rounds out the sharpness from the lemon.
- Honey syrup: Softer than simple syrup, honey syrup adds warmth and a natural touch of sweetness.
- Sparkling water: Adds effervescence and lengthens the drink without diluting the flavor.
- Crushed ice: Helps the ingredients stay cold and well-integrated.
- Garnish: The lemon wheel and mint sprig make it pop visually and enhance the aroma.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the blackberries and mint together until fully broken down. This extracts the berry juice and mint oils.
- Step 2: Add lemon juice, orange juice, and honey syrup to the mixture. Stir or shake briefly to combine and chill.
- Step 3: Fine strain the mixture into a highball or rocks glass filled with crushed ice. This ensures a smooth drink without pulp or leaves.
- Step 4: Top with sparkling water and gently stir to mix. Avoid over-stirring to preserve the bubbles.
- Step 5: Garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh mint sprig just before serving. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: In a shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the blackberries and mint together until fully broken down. This extracts the berry juice and mint oils.
- Step 2: Add lemon juice, orange juice, and honey syrup to the mixture. Stir or shake briefly to combine and chill.
- Step 3: Fine strain the mixture into a highball or rocks glass filled with crushed ice. This ensures a smooth drink without pulp or leaves.
- Step 4: Top with sparkling water and gently stir to mix. Avoid over-stirring to preserve the bubbles.
- Step 5: Garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh mint sprig just before serving. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Notes
- Note 1: To batch for a group, multiply the juice and syrup by 4 and build in a pitcher. Add sparkling water and ice just before serving.
- Note 2: To make vegan-friendly, swap honey syrup with agave syrup in equal parts.
The Blackberry Citrus Smash is your go-to when you want a mocktail that hits all the notes—tart, sweet, refreshing, and complex. It’s great for brunches, warm evenings, or even holiday gatherings when you want something festive but alcohol-free. Feel free to experiment with seasonal berries or even a dash of jalapeño for a spicy twist.
This recipe is designed to be accessible but premium, with ingredients you likely already have and a flavor that tastes elevated. Don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe before they finish their first glass.