Clementine Ginger Mocktail: A Fresh Winter Citrus Fizz
Approx. 4 min read
Clementine Ginger Mocktail Recipe
The trick is to use both clementine juice and the fragrant oils in its peel. A quick twist of peel above the glass brings out that fresh citrus aroma before the first sip. Ginger beer adds a lively kick, a splash of soda keeps things light, and a little lemon balances the sweetness. No shaker or syrup needed.
Recipe details
- Prep time: About 5 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Serves: 1
- Glass: Highball or roomy tumbler (at least 350 ml / 12 oz)
- Tools: Citrus press, measuring jug and spoon
- Taste: Juicy clementine, fresh citrus and a warming ginger finish
Ingredients for one glass
- 90 ml (3 oz) freshly squeezed clementine juice (use as many clementines as needed)
- 10 ml (0.35 oz) fresh lemon juice
- 90 ml (3 oz) chilled alcohol-free ginger beer
- 30 ml (1 oz) chilled soda water
- Plenty of ice cubes
- One thin clementine wheel or a narrow strip of washed clementine peel, to garnish
How to make it
- Wash one clementine first if using its peel. Squeeze enough fruit to get 90 ml (3 oz) juice and remove any seeds.
- Pour 90 ml (3 oz) clementine juice and 10 ml (0.35 oz) lemon juice into your glass. Fill it generously with ice.
- Add 90 ml (3 oz) cold ginger beer, then 30 ml (1 oz) soda water. Stir gently once or twice, just enough to mix without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish with a clementine wheel or gently twist a narrow strip of peel over the drink to release its oils. Serve straight away.
Little Love My Drink tip: Take only the coloured outer peel, not the thick white pith. A gentle twist above the bubbles makes the clementine aroma shine without adding sweetness.
Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale?
Choose ginger beer for a more noticeable ginger kick. Ginger ale usually tastes softer and lets the clementine lead. You can swap one for the other in the same 90 ml (3 oz) quantity, then taste before adjusting the lemon.
For a closer look at the difference, our ginger beer vs ginger ale guide makes choosing the right bottle easy.
How to Keep It Bright, Not Too Sweet
Clementines vary in sweetness, and ginger beers range from mild to fiery. Taste before adjusting.
- Too sweet? Add another 5 ml (0.2 oz) lemon juice, or replace 30 ml (1 oz) ginger beer with soda water.
- Too sharp? Try just 5 ml (0.2 oz) lemon juice next time.
- Ginger too strong? Use 60 ml (2 oz) ginger beer and 60 ml (2 oz) soda water. Finish with twisted clementine peel to bring the fruit forward.
Make It for Friends
Squeeze the citrus before guests arrive, then build each drink as you serve it.
For four servings, mix 360 ml (12 oz) freshly squeezed clementine juice with 40 ml (about 1.35 oz) fresh lemon juice in a covered jug. Chill the base on the day you plan to serve it. Divide it evenly between four ice-filled glasses, then top each glass with 90 ml (3 oz) chilled alcohol-free ginger beer and 30 ml (1 oz) soda water. Garnish just before serving.
Add the sparkling mixers at the last moment to keep the fizz.
Clementine Mocktail FAQ
Can I use mandarins or oranges instead?
Yes. Other sweet mandarins are the closest swap. Fresh orange juice works too, but the fragrance and sweetness can be different. Use the same juice quantity, taste and adjust the lemon a little at a time.
Is ginger beer always alcohol-free?
No. Many ginger beers sold as soft-drink mixers are alcohol-free, but alcoholic versions also exist. Check the product label; choose one clearly marked 0.0% if you need a strictly zero-alcohol drink.
Can I prepare this mocktail ahead of time?
You can squeeze and chill the clementine and lemon juices a few hours ahead, covered in the fridge. Add ice, ginger beer and soda water just before serving so the drink stays fresh and sparkling.
More Easy Winter Mocktails
For a mellow ginger twist, try our spiced pear mocktail. Prefer something herbal and festive? Make the pomegranate rosemary mocktail. This version is all about bright, fragrant clementines.
