Berry Sparkler Mocktail
Fresh berries and bubbles come together in the most refreshing drink of the season.
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If you’re looking for an ultra-refreshing drink to get you through the heat of summer, try this bright, fizzy berry sparkler mocktail. A quick stovetop syrup packed with fresh blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries gives it a sweet, tangy flavor and gorgeous jewel-toned color.
The real fun of this mocktail is the layering. A handful of berries goes in the glass first, followed by ice. Seltzer is poured over the top, suspending the berries in the middle of the glass. Then the syrup is slowly poured over the back of a spoon—a simple bartender trick that helps it slip to the bottom and create distinct layers. Mocktail recipes don’t get much prettier than this!
This bubbly drink was made for sipping on sunny days—think Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, backyard barbecues, or anytime you need a refreshing summer drink. It’s also a delicious way to use up fresh, juicy berries. Looking for more festive beverages? These Fourth of July drink recipes are worth making all season long.
Can you make a berry sparkler mocktail ahead of time?
The berry syrup can be made up to four days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Wait to assemble the drinks until just before serving so they’re fresh and fizzy.
Can you use other berries in a berry sparkler mocktail?
Absolutely. This mocktail is a great use-what-you-have recipe—just aim for about 1 cup of berries total for the syrup. Strawberries, pitted cherries, or a frozen berry blend all work well here. If using strawberries, chop them first so they cook down faster.
Does this drink have to be layered?
Not at all. The layers are there for looks, so if everything gets stirred together, it’ll still taste just as refreshing.
Can you make a berry sparkler with alcohol?
Yup! Go ahead and add a splash of vodka or gin, and add this to your list of favorite summer cocktails.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup blackberries (about 2 oz.), plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup blueberries (about 2 oz.), plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup raspberries (about 2 oz.), plus more for serving
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 lemons
- 24 oz. seltzer or club soda
- Fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Step 1In a small saucepan, bring the blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, sugar, and 2 tablespoons water to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook, breaking up the berries with a potato masher or wooden spoon and stirring occasionally, until syrupy, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and press through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl. Stir in the juice of 1 1/2 lemons. Let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Step 2Fill 4 glasses with a few berries and top them with ice. Pour 6 ounces of seltzer into each glass. Pour 1 1/2 ounces of the berry syrup into each glass, pouring down the back of a spoon so that it settles into the bottom of the glass, creating layers.
- Step 3Slice the remaining 1/2 lemon into rounds. Garnish each glass with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint, if desired, before serving.
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