Sunrise Mocktail Recipe (Non-Alcoholic Orange Juice Mocktail)

Have you ever watched the sunrise in a glass?

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic sunrise that feels as magical as the real thing, this Sunrise Mocktail (Orange Juice Mocktail) is your new go-to. It’s family-friendly, sober-friendly, and perfect for inclusive beverage options at any party. Whether you're hosting a brunch, planning a family-friendly party, or just want to sip something pretty on your patio, this Virgin Sunrise Mocktail has you covered.

Imagine the bright citrus of freshly squeezed orange juice, the rich red glow of grenadine syrup sinking in a perfect layered sunrise effect, and a fizzy splash of club soda to wake up your senses.

Ingredients

• Ice (for that essential chill)

• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (or your favourite orange juice)

• ¼ cup club soda (soda water works too)

• 1 tbsp grenadine syrup

• Optional: splash of agave nectar for a touch of extra sweetness

• Garnish: orange slice, maraschino cherry

Instructions

1️⃣ Fill a highball glass (or any tall, clear drinking glass) with ice.
2️⃣ Add club soda first for that refreshing fizz.
3️⃣ Pour in the orange juice slowly to layer over the soda.
4️⃣ Carefully drizzle the grenadine syrup over the back of a cocktail spoon so it sinks to the bottom, creating that signature ombré effect.
5️⃣ Garnish with a fresh orange slice and a maraschino cherry – on the rim or skewered on a cocktail stick.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Virgin Sunrise Mocktail

• Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, most natural flavor.
  Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes to keep your mocktail cold without watering it down.

• Pour the grenadine slowly and carefully to keep those beautiful, layered sunrise bands intact.

• Agave nectar adds a gentle sweetness that plays beautifully with the citrus.

• Experiment with crushed ice for extra texture and a frosty finish.

• Serve in clear glassware to really show off that gorgeous sunrise effect – it's half the fun!

When to Serve This Non-Alcoholic Sunrise

This Sunrise Mocktail is made for daytime parties, relaxed afternoons, tropical-themed nights, and summer events. It's perfect poolside, at family-friendly brunches, or as a house signature drink for sober friends who still want something special.

Cheers to beautiful moments, inclusive gatherings, and enjoying the sunrise any time of day!

FAQ About This Sunrise Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic Orange Juice Mocktail)

Q: What is a Sunrise Mocktail?
A Sunrise Mocktail is a non-alcoholic drink inspired by the classic Tequila Sunrise. It layers orange juice, grenadine syrup, and club soda to create a beautiful ombré effect that looks just like a sunrise—without any alcohol.

Q: Can I make this a Virgin Sunrise Mocktail for kids?
Absolutely! This Virgin Sunrise Mocktail is family-friendly and perfect for kids’ parties. It’s sweet, colourful, and feels festive without any booze.

Q: What’s the difference between a Tequila Sunrise Mocktail and a regular Sunrise Mocktail?
A classic Tequila Sunrise uses tequila as the base spirit. A Tequila Sunrise Mocktail (non-alcoholic) skips the tequila entirely, using club soda or soda water to create the same layered look and refreshing taste, making it a true non-alcoholic sunrise.

Q: Do I have to use freshly squeezed orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavour, but store-bought juice works too! Choose one with no added sugar for a more balanced mocktail.

Q: How do I get the perfect layered sunrise effect?
Pour grenadine syrup very slowly over the back of a cocktail spoon so it sinks gently and forms that signature ombré effect. If it mixes too much, just add a little extra orange juice on top.

Q: Can I swap club soda for something else?
Yes! You can use sparkling water, soda water, or even lemon-lime soda if you want a sweeter, fizzy mocktail.

Q: What garnishes work best?
We love a classic orange slice and maraschino cherry—either on the rim or skewered on a cocktail stick. It adds that retro cocktail-bar look and a pop of colour.

Q: Is this mocktail good for parties?
Definitely! This Orange Juice Mocktail is perfect for family-friendly parties, brunches, summer events, and even tropical-themed nights. It’s inclusive, easy to make in batches, and visually stunning.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can mix the orange juice and club soda ahead, but add the grenadine syrup and ice just before serving to keep the layers sharp and the drink cold.