Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour: A Sweet and Tangy Mocktail Classic

The Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour is the perfect blend of tangy citrus, sweet syrup, and a rich, whiskey-inspired base—all without the alcohol. This elegant mocktail delivers the same satisfying balance of flavors as the original cocktail, making it an excellent option for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or an indulgent solo treat.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional whiskey sours or simply looking for a sophisticated alcohol-free alternative, this mocktail is guaranteed to hit the spot. It’s simple to make, beautifully balanced, and easily customizable for any taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and balanced flavors: A perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and rich.
• Sophisticated and elegant: Ideal for formal occasions or casual sipping.
• Quick and easy: Made in minutes with just a shaker and a few ingredients.
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness or try creative variations to make it your own.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 2 ounces non-alcoholic whiskey (e.g., Lyre’s American Malt or Ritual Zero Proof)
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• ½ ounce simple syrup (or adjust to taste)
• ½ ounce aquafaba (chickpea liquid) (optional, for a frothy top)
• Ice cubes

Optional Garnishes

• Lemon wheel
• Maraschino cherry
• Orange peel twist

Tools You’ll Need

• Cocktail shaker
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for aquafaba)
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Rocks glass

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shaker

1. Add non-alcoholic whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba (if using) to a cocktail shaker.
2. If using aquafaba, start with a dry shake (no ice) for 10–15 seconds to create froth.

Step 2: Add Ice and Shake

1. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Strain and Serve

1. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
2. For extra elegance, double strain through a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth texture.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy

1. Garnish with a lemon wheel, maraschino cherry, or orange peel twist.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your sophisticated, alcohol-free whiskey sour!

Variations and Customizations

• Berry Sour: Add a splash of raspberry or blackberry syrup for a fruity twist.
• Spicy Kick: Muddle a slice of jalapeño or add a dash of chili powder for a spicy variation.
• Zero-Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of simple syrup.
• Tea-Infused: Replace non-alcoholic whiskey with strong black tea or rooibos for a rich alternative.

Batching Tips

This recipe works best when made fresh because of the frothy texture from shaking (especially if using aquafaba). However, you can prepare the base in advance:

• Pre-Mix Base Ingredients: Combine the non-alcoholic whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated.
• Shake Fresh: For best results, shake individual servings with ice and aquafaba just before serving.
• Optional Garnishes: Prepare lemon wheels and cherries in advance to streamline the serving process.

Perfect Pairings

• Snacks: Pair with savory bites like Spinach and Feta Pastry Bites or a Savory Cheese Board.
• Main Dishes: Enjoy alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta salad.
• Desserts: Complement with sweet treats like Mini Lemon Tarts or Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries.

Conclusion

The Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour is the ultimate mocktail for those who crave bold, balanced flavors with a sophisticated edge. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion—be it a formal dinner, a fun gathering, or a quiet night in.

Give it your own twist, pair it with your favorite snacks or desserts, and savor every sip of this classic mocktail. Pin this recipe for your next mocktail night, and let me know how you enjoy this refined favorite. Cheers!