The Virgin Piña Colada

About The Virgin Piña Colada

The Virgin Piña Colada brings the tropical goodness of pineapple and coconut in a non-alcoholic rendition of the classic cocktail. This mocktail is a creamy, refreshing blend that transports you to a beachside paradise without the need for alcohol.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup coconut cream

• 1 cup crushed ice

• Pineapple wedge for garnish

• Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     Frozen

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Tropical

Method:

In a blender, combine pineapple juice, coconut cream, and crushed ice. Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass.

The Cranberry Orange Spice Punch

About The Cranberry Orange Spice Punch

The Cranberry Orange Spice Punch is a festive and flavorful non-alcoholic beverage that combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy zing of oranges, elevated by warm spices. This punch is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any gathering where a vibrant and aromatic drink is desired.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cranberry juice

• 1 cup orange juice

• 1/2 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• Orange slices for garnish

• Cranberries for garnish

• Ice cubes

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Sweet

Method:

Prepare Spice Infusion: In a small saucepan, heat cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup over low heat. Add whole cloves and cinnamon sticks. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the spices. Strain the liquid to remove cloves and cinnamon sticks. Allow the spiced juice mixture to cool, then refrigerate until well chilled.

Fill a punch bowl or pitcher with ice cubes. Pour the chilled spiced juice mixture over the ice.

The Afterglow

About The Afterglow

The Afterglow is a famous mocktail designed to mimic the “Sunrise” cocktails. The fruity and sweet blend of orange and pineapple juice creates a very palatable blend of flavors and is full of Vitamin C. Grenadine is the key ingredient to make the visual effect of a “sunrise” or “afterglow.”

Ingredients:

• Splash of Grenadine (to preference)

• Equal parts Orange Juice

• Equal parts Pineapple Juice

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:         Tropical

Method:

Shake Pineapple and Orange Juice together with ice in a cocktail shaker. Pour with ice into highball glass. Tip glass on side and gently pour grenadine along the side. Result should be grenadine sinking to the bottom creating the signature visual effect.

The Strawberry Basil Breeze

About The Strawberry Basil Breeze

The Strawberry Basil Breeze is a delightful non-alcoholic beverage that combines the sweet and juicy flavor of strawberries with the aromatic touch of fresh basil. This refreshing mocktail offers a perfect balance of fruity and herbal notes, creating a breezy and invigorating drink.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled

• 8-10 fresh basil leaves

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

• Sparkling water

• Basil sprig for garnish

• Strawberry slices for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Sweet

Method:

Hull the fresh strawberries. In a glass, gently muddle fresh strawberries and basil leaves. Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add 2 tablespoons of simple syrup, adjusting to your desired sweetness. Add ice cubes to the glass. Pour sparkling water into the glass, filling it to the top. Use a long spoon to gently stir the ingredients.

The Apple Cinnamon Spritz

About The Apple Cinnamon Spritz

The Apple Cinnamon Spritz is a delightful non-alcoholic beverage that combines the crisp and sweet flavor of apple with the warm and comforting notes of cinnamon. This spritz is a perfect autumn-inspired mocktail, bringing a cozy and festive touch to any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple juice

• 1/2 cup cinnamon syrup

• Soda water

• Ice cubes

• Apple slices for garnish

• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Apple Cinnamon

Method:

Prepare Cinnamon Syrup: In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar with cinnamon sticks. Simmer until sugar dissolves, then cool and strain.

Mix Ingredients: In a glass, combine apple juice and cinnamon syrup. Adjust the amount of syrup based on your desired level of sweetness. Add ice cubes to the glass. Pour soda water into the glass, filling it to the top. Use a long spoon to gently stir the ingredients.

The Cucumber Mint Cooler

About The Cucumber Mint Cooler

The Cucumber Mint Cooler is a crisp and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage that combines the coolness of cucumber with the invigorating essence of fresh mint. This cooler is a perfect choice for warm days or as a revitalizing drink to cleanse the palate.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves

• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• Soda water

• Ice cubes

• Mint sprigs for garnish

• Cucumber slices for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Straightforward

Method:

In a pitcher, combine thinly sliced cucumber and fresh mint leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the cucumber and mint to release their flavors. Pour in simple syrup and lime juice. Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Add ice cubes to the pitcher. Pour soda water into the pitcher, filling it to the top. Use a long spoon to gently stir the ingredients.

The Watermelon Rosemary Fizz

About The Watermelon Rosemary Fizz

The Watermelon Rosemary Fizz is a vibrant and herbaceous non-alcoholic beverage that combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the aromatic touch of fresh rosemary. This fizzy mocktail is not only visually appealing but also a refreshing choice for warm days.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh watermelon cubes

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• Soda water

• Ice cubes

• Watermelon balls for garnish

• Rosemary sprigs for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Watermelon

Method:

In a pitcher, combine fresh watermelon cubes and rosemary sprigs. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the watermelon and rosemary to release their flavors. Pour in simple syrup and lime juice. Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Add ice cubes to the pitcher. Pour soda water into the pitcher, filling it to the top. Use a long spoon to gently stir the ingredients.

The Peach Rosemary Iced Tea

About The Peach Rosemary Iced Tea

The Peach Rosemary Iced Tea is a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage that combines the sweet essence of ripe peaches with the aromatic touch of rosemary, creating a delightful and elevated iced tea experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 peach tea bags (or regular black tea bags)

• 2 cups hot water

• 1 ripe peach, sliced

• 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Peach

Method:

Steep the peach tea bags in hot water according to package instructions. In a pitcher, add sliced ripe peaches and fresh rosemary sprigs. Pour the hot brewed tea over the peaches and rosemary. Add honey and stir until it dissolves. Adjust sweetness to your liking. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate to let the flavors infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Strain the tea to remove peaches and rosemary. Refrigerate until well chilled. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Peach Rosemary Iced Tea.

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini is a decadent and festive hot cocktail that combines the classic comfort of hot chocolate with the cool and invigorating taste of peppermint. This delightful martini is perfect for winter celebrations, offering a luxurious blend of rich chocolate, creamy liqueurs, and a refreshing hint of peppermint to create a sophisticated and cozy drink.

• Ingredients:

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1 oz peppermint schnapps

• 1/2 oz vodka

• 1 cup hot chocolate (prepared with milk)

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Crushed peppermint candies for rimming (optional)

• Mini candy canes for garnish (optional)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Peppermint

Method:

Prepare hot chocolate using your preferred method, substituting water with milk for a creamier texture.

In a shaker, combine chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, vodka, and hot chocolate. Shake well to combine. Strain the mixture into a heat-resistant martini glass. Top the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Martini with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For an extra festive touch, hang a mini candy cane on the rim of the glass or let it float in the martini.

The Ramos Gin Fizz

About The Ramos Gin Fizz

The Ramos Fizz, also known as the Ramos Gin Fizz, is a classic cocktail renowned for its creamy and frothy texture. This cocktail includes gin, citrus juices, simple syrup, egg white, and heavy cream. The key to its signature texture is an extended shaking process that emulsifies the ingredients, creating a velvety and luscious drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin

• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

• 3/4 oz simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 egg white

• 2-3 drops orange flower water

• 2 drops vanilla extract

• Club soda (optional)

• Ice

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:  Medium

• Difficulty: Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Dry shake: In a shaker without ice, combine gin, fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, heavy cream, egg white, vanilla extract, and orange flower water.

Wet shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake the ingredients vigorously for an extended period, typically 1-2 minutes, to create the desired frothy texture.

Strain the mixture into a highball or Collins glass without ice. The Ramos Fizz is often served without ice, but you can top it with a splash of club soda if desired.

The Coconut Berry Smoothie

About The Coconut Berry Smoothie

The Coconut Berry Smoothie is a luscious and tropical non-alcoholic blend that combines the creamy richness of coconut with the vibrant flavors of mixed berries. This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and refreshing goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• 1/2 cup coconut water

• 1/2 cup coconut milk

• 1 ripe banana

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)

• Ice cubes

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:     Smoothie

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:         Berry

Method:

Wash and hull strawberries, if needed. In a blender, combine mixed berries, coconut water, coconut milk, ripe banana, and Greek yogurt (if using). Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Add ice cubes and blend again until you achieve your desired thickness. Pour the smoothie into a chilled glass.

The Pineapple Ginger Sparkler

About The Pineapple Ginger Sparkler

The Pineapple Ginger Sparkler is a zesty and effervescent non-alcoholic beverage that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the warming kick of ginger. This sparkler is perfect for those who enjoy a flavorful and invigorating drink with a touch of fizz.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup ginger ale

• 1 tablespoon ginger syrup

• Ice cubes

• Pineapple wedges for garnish

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:    Non-Alcoholic

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:         Tropical

Method:

Prepare Ginger Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar with fresh ginger slices. Simmer until sugar dissolves, then cool and strain.

In a glass, combine pineapple juice, ginger ale, and ginger syrup. Add ice cubes to the glass. Use a long spoon to gently stir the ingredients. Garnish with pineapple wedges and fresh mint leaves.

The Grateful Dead

About The Grateful Dead

As Empire Mixology’s resident Master Mixologist and a self-claimed “Long Island-style Cocktail Expert,” I’d love to tell you that Grateful Deads are a fun recipe that’s packed with flavor, but its not. Unlike the Long Island Iced Tea that attempts to hide alcohol content, the Grateful Dead does very little to mask its intense alcohol profile. The Raspberry Liqueur does little to nothing in the vein of dulling the bite of the spirits.

Popular in most college bars and dives throughout the country, the Grateful Dead is a great night starter cocktail since they are typically cheaply made and can be thrown together quickly. Add Lemon Lime Soda to make the cocktail more palatable if desired. The fun part of this recipe is that the Grateful Dead is typically garnished with fun concepts such as gummy bears, candy, sprinkles, fruit.

Ingredients:

• ½ oz. Tequila

• ½ oz. Rum

• ½ oz. Gin

• ½ oz. Vodka

• ½ oz. Triple Sec

• Splash of Lemon Juice

• Splash of Simple Syrup

• Splash. Raspberry Liqueur

• Splash Blue Curacao

• FIll Lemon Lime Soda

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4 Stars

• Served: On the Rocks

• Strength: Strong

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Spirit Forward

Method:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill the ingredients. Measure and pour 1/2 ounce each of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec into the shaker. This combination of spirits forms the base of the Grateful Dead. Pour 3/4 ounce of simple syrup into the shaker for sweetness. Pour 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice into the shaker for a citrusy kick. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling. Pour raspberry liqueur and gummy bears into bottom of a highball glass. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the highball glass and fill with ice. Top up the glass with a splash of lemon lime soda for effervescence. Gently add a splash to give it the signature effect. Optionally, give the ingredients a gentle stir to combine the flavors.

The Mid-Winter Margarita

About The Mid-Winter Margarita

The Mid-Winter Margarita is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, designed to bring a burst of tropical sunshine to the coldest months of the year. Crafted with care, it combines premium tequila, orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice. What sets this winter-worthy margarita apart is the addition of grapefruit juice, and chili salt that mirrors the warmth of a crackling fire. Served over ice and garnished with a twist of orange peel or a sprig of rosemary, this cocktail is a cozy and festive indulgence, perfect for holiday gatherings and nights by the fireplace. The Mid-Winter Margarita is sure to brighten even the chilliest of evenings with its rich flavors and inviting colors.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• 1 oz. Grapefruit Juice

• Lime Wedges for Garnish

• Chili Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Tart

Method:

Pour tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and triple sec into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with chili salt.

The Apple Spice Margarita

About The Apple Spice Margarita

The Apple Spice Margarita is a delightful autumn-inspired twist on the classic cocktail, offering a harmonious blend of seasonal flavors. This unique libation combines top-shelf tequila with apple cider, a touch of orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice to create a refreshing base. What sets this margarita apart is the infusion of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, which add a cozy depth of flavor, reminiscent of freshly baked apple pie. Rimmed with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, and garnished with a thin apple slice or a cinnamon stick, this cocktail captures the essence of fall in every sip, making it the perfect choice for a crisp evening by the bonfire or a festive Thanksgiving gathering. The Apple Spice Margarita is a delightful way to toast to the season's bounty.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Apple Cider

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp. Cinnamon

• Pinch of Ground Cloves

• Apple Slice or Cinnamon Stick for Garnish

• Cinnamon/Sugar Mixture (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Apple

Method:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, apple cider, orange liqueur, freshly squeezed lime juice, simple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves. Shake until chilled and strain into rimmed Margarita glass. Garnish accordingly.

The Honey Apple Margarita

About The Honey Apple Margarita

The Honey Apple Margarita is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, offering a perfect balance of flavors for a refreshing cocktail. This autumn-inspired libation combines the richness of apple flavor with the bright zest of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a drizzle of honey, resulting in a harmonious concoction. Shake all the ingredients together with ice until well chilled, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a thin apple slice and a drizzle of honey for an elegant touch. This cocktail embodies the crisp and comforting essence of fall, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings or simply sipping by the fireplace as you embrace the changing seasons.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Apple Juice

• ¾ oz. Lemon Juice

• ½ oz. Honey Syrup

• Apple Slices for Garnish

• Celery Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Pour tequila, lemon juice, apple juice, and honey syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with celery salt.

The Italian Margarita

About The Italian Margarita

The Italian Margarita is a Mediterranean twist on the classic cocktail, seamlessly blending the zest of Italy with the tequila-based spirit of Mexico. This exotic libation marries the flavors of premium tequila with the vibrant tang of amaretto liqueur and freshly squeezed lime juice. The addition of orange juice adds a hint of citrusy brightness, and a touch of agave syrup balances the sweetness to perfection. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of fresh lime or a twist of orange zest, the Italian Margarita is a refreshing, sophisticated, and delightfully boozy fusion that's perfect for sipping on a sunny patio or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Amaretto

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ¾ oz. Orange Juice

• ½ oz. Agave Syrup

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

• Sugar/Salt Mix (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Pour tequila, lime juice, orange juice, agave syrup, and Amaretto into a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a margarita glass rimmed with sugar/salt mixture.

The Mango Margarita

About The Mango Margarita

The Mango Margarita is a tropical paradise in a glass, a vibrant and luscious cocktail that transports your taste buds to sun-soaked beaches and swaying palm trees. Crafted with care, it combines premium tequila, triple sec, and freshly pureed ripe mango, creating a velvety, sweet, and tangy base. A splash of freshly squeezed lime juice provides the perfect balance of acidity. Blended with ice until it's smooth and frosty, this delightful concoction is a refreshingly exotic escape that captures the essence of summer. Garnished with a slice of fresh mango or a lime wedge, the Mango Margarita is the ultimate thirst-quencher for beachside getaways, pool parties, or any occasion when you crave a taste of the tropics. Sip and savor the sunny vibes in every sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 2 oz. Mango Puree

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• Ice

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

• Salt Mix (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Sweet

Method:

Blend ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass rimmed with salt. Garnish accordingly.

The Jalapeno Margarita

About The Jalapeno Margarita

The Jalapeño Margarita is a bold and spicy twist on the classic cocktail, delivering a fiery kick that awakens the taste buds. This exciting libation combines premium tequila with the heat of fresh jalapeño slices, balanced by the bright zing of freshly squeezed lime juice and a hint of orange liqueur. A touch of simple syrup or agave nectar adds sweetness to complement the heat. Muddled jalapeños release their spicy essence, infusing the drink with a tantalizing warmth. Served over ice and garnished with a jalapeño slice or a lime wheel, the Jalapeño Margarita is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a little heat in their cocktails. It's a fiery, invigorating, and unforgettable way to spice up your margarita game.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Silver Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• 1 oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

• 2-3 slices of Fresh Jalapeno Peppers

• Ice

• Jalapeno Slice for Garnish

• Salt (for rim of glass)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Margarita

• Strength:    Strong

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Hot

Method:

Muddle jalapeno slices to release juices. Add other ingredients to a shaker and shake until chilled. Double strain into a rimmed Margarita glass with ice. Garnish accordingly.