Refreshing Mocktails to Power Through the Final Days of Dry January on the Suncoast

As Dry January comes to a close, many of us might be running low on creative ideas to keep our taste buds excited without reaching for alcohol. But don’t let your mocktail game fizzle out just yet! For those on the Suncoast, it’s the perfect time to embrace the vibrant, zesty flavors of the Sunshine State’s famous citrus and local produce. Whether you’re planning a quiet evening at home or a gathering with friends, these five mocktail recipes will provide the inspiration you need to cross the finish line in style—and with delicious drinks in hand!

Citrus Sparkler Mocktail

Combine 1½ oz. Orange Juice, 1½ oz. Tangerine Juice, ½ oz. lime juice, and 2 drops of orange flower water in a shaker with ice. Shake well, strain into a glass over fresh ice, and top with 2 oz. chilled club soda. Garnish with orange and lime slices.

Orange Juice Mocktail

Freeze Orange Juice in ice cube trays. Place two OJ ice cubes in a glass, add 8 oz. sparkling water, a splash of grenadine, and a splash of vanilla syrup. Stir well and garnish with a rosemary sprig and an orange wedge.

Citrus Watermelon’ade

Blend 4 cups of watermelon until smooth. In a pitcher, mix the watermelon juice with 2 cups Orange Juice, 1 cup Grapefruit Juice, 2 cups sugar syrup (made from 1 cup sugar dissolved in 1 cup hot water), ¾ cup lemon juice, and ¾ cup lime juice. Add 2 cups of watermelon pieces, orange pieces, and mint leaves. Chill for 2-3 hours and serve over ice, garnished with orange slices and watermelon chunks.

Winter Spiced Orange Mocktail

Mix 2 oz. Seville orange syrup (or a bittersweet nonalcoholic orange-flavored syrup) with club soda over ice. Add a dash of bitters and garnish with a fresh orange slice. This drink offers a warm, spiced flavor perfect for cooler evenings.

Nonalcoholic Strawberry Margarita

Blend 1 cup frozen strawberries, ½ cup fresh lime juice, ¼ cup orange juice, and 1 tablespoon agave nectar until smooth. Pour into a glass rimmed with salt and garnish with a lime wedge. This mocktail provides a sweet and tangy taste reminiscent of a classic margarita.

As you savor these refreshing mocktails, remember that Dry January is more than just a challenge—it’s a celebration of finding new ways to enjoy life’s flavors without alcohol. These recipes, inspired by the Suncoast’s bright and tropical ingredients, are sure to keep your spirits high as you wrap up the month. And who knows? These mocktails might just become your go-to favorites year-round. Cheers to you and your Dry January success!

Enjoy these delightful mocktails as you celebrate your Dry January success!

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