Description
A refreshing rhubarb mocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. Made by simmering rhubarb with sugar and water to create a tangy syrup, then mixed with sparkling water and ice for a deliciously light beverage. Can be easily spiked with vodka or gin for a delightful cocktail variation.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup Ingredients
- 3 cups rhubarb, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups granulated sugar
Mocktail Ingredients
- 6 tbsp simple syrup (divided per glass)
- Sparkling water, to top off each glass
- Ice, as needed
- 4 tsp lemon juice
- 6 pieces rhubarb, peeled into long strips (optional for garnish)
Cocktail Option
- 1.5 oz vodka or gin, per serving
Instructions
- Make the Rhubarb Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the rhubarb to soften and the flavors to meld. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a glass jar to remove the solids. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Prepare the Mocktail: Fill serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared rhubarb simple syrup into each glass, then add a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Top off each glass with sparkling water to your taste. Optionally, garnish with peeled rhubarb ribbons for an elegant look. Stir gently before serving.
- Make the Cocktail Variation: For an alcoholic version, start by adding 1.5 ounces of your choice of vodka or gin to each glass. Then, fill with ice, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of rhubarb simple syrup, splash of lemon juice, and top off with sparkling water. Garnish with rhubarb ribbons and stir gently before enjoying.
Notes
- The rhubarb syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it easy to prepare in advance.
- Adjust the amount of simple syrup and sparkling water based on your preferred sweetness and fizz levels.
- Peeled rhubarb ribbons add a stylish garnish but are optional.
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka or gin for a delightful mocktail.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: rhubarb mocktail, rhubarb syrup, refreshing drinks, summer beverage, non-alcoholic drink, cocktail, easy mocktail