Holiday Mocktail

Written By Ashlee Bryant

This vibrant, immune-supportive mocktail is the perfect blend of seasonal flavors - rich pomegranate, cozy cinnamon, and the antioxidant boost of elderberry. It’s refreshing, naturally sweet, and simple to make, offering a festive way to nourish your body while still feeling indulgent. Perfect for holiday gatherings or an everyday wellness ritual.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

  • 1 oz elderberry syrup

  • 1 cup pomegranate juice

  • 2 oz apple cider juice

  • 1 cup seltzer water

  • 1/4 TSP cinnamon

  • 2 TBS pomegranate seeds, meddled

  • Dried apple (optional for garnish)

instructions:

  1. In a small bowl or glass, muddle the pomegranate seeds until they release their juices.

  2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the elderberry syrup, pomegranate juice, apple cider, and cinnamon. Shake well to blend.

  3. Fill two glasses with ice, then divide the muddled pomegranate seeds (and their juices) between the glasses.

  4. Strain or pour the juice mixture from the shaker evenly into the glasses.

  5. Top each glass with seltzer water just before serving to keep it fizzy.

  6. Garnish with dried apple slices, cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, if desired.

Tips & Swaps:

  • Make your own elderberry syrup with this simple recipe:

    • 1/2 cup dried elderberry

    • 1/4 cup organic chai tea mix

    • 4 cups filtered water

    • 1 cup of honey (adjust to taste)

      • In a medium saucepan, combine the dried elderberries, chai tea mix, and filtered water.

      • Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat. Simmer partially covered for 40–45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half (~2 cups). Stir occasionally.

      • Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly until warm.

      • Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.

      • While the liquid is still warm (not hot), stir in the honey until fully blended.

        • Ratio of syrup to honey should be 2:1.

      • Pour the syrup into a clean glass jar store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

  • Swap the juice: Cranberry juice or tart cherry juice works beautifully if you don’t have pomegranate.

  • Make it less sweet: Use half pomegranate juice and replace the rest with water or extra seltzer.

  • Boost the spice: Add a dash of ginger or a cinnamon stick for a warmer flavor profile.

Why It Works for Winter:

  • Includes immune-supportive elements such as elderberry and antioxidant-rich pomegranate.

  • Features warming spices like cinnamon that naturally support digestion and circulation in winter.

  • Delivers a festive flavor profile that feels cozy and holiday-ready without being heavy.

  • Sparkling water keeps it light and festive without alcohol.

Ashlee Bryant
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