Save It This autumn Maple Ginger Sour mocktail is my go to drink when I want something crisp bright and non alcoholic for cozy gatherings. It brings together maple syrup’s richness the zing of ginger and tart lemon for a cocktail hour that feels like fall in a glass.
When I first made this for a family brunch everyone kept asking for the recipe. It has become a holiday staple and is always the first pitcher emptied.
Ingredients
- Pure maple syrup: this gives natural sweetness and depth choose grade A or B for best flavor
- Fresh lemon juice: brings bright acidity use freshly squeezed for the freshest taste
- Ginger juice or fresh grated ginger: supplies the spicy warmth find firm ginger with smooth skin
- Sparkling water: adds a vibrant fizz choose a neutral bubbly water for best results
- Lemon wheels as garnish: add a pop of color
- Thinly sliced fresh ginger: ramps up the aroma and look
- Ice cubes: keep it crisp and perfectly chilled
- For ginger juice: pick roots that feel heavy for their size and have no shriveling
Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine maple syrup lemon juice and ginger juice or grated ginger in a cocktail shaker. Make sure to measure carefully for balanced flavor
- Chill and Shake:
- Add a generous scoop of ice to the shaker. Shake hard for at least ten seconds so everything gets super cold and combined. This helps blend the maple fully
- Strain the Mixture:
- Place ice in two glasses. Strain the shaken liquid between them so each glass gets a perfectly smooth pour
- Add the Fizz:
- Top each glass slowly with sparkling water. Stir gently with a spoon just enough to combine but keep the bubbles lively
- Garnish and Serve:
- Float lemon wheels and ginger slices on top. Hand it over while the chill is perfect and serve right away
Save It My son loves snacking on the ginger slices and once we made a pitcher with sparkling apple cider instead of water for an extra festive touch
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover base mixture without sparkling water in the fridge for up to three days. Only add bubbles when you are ready to serve so the fizz stays lively. If storing lemon wheels or ginger slices prep them fresh for garnish right before pouring
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ginger juice with ginger beer if you like more spice but cut back on sparkling water to avoid diluting the flavor. Maple syrup can be adjusted by a tablespoon more or less to suit your sweet tooth. Lemon can be subbed with lime for a twist I found lime gives it a fun tropical punch
Serving Suggestions
Pair this mocktail with apple crisp pumpkin bread or roasted nuts for autumn gatherings. It also goes well as a featured drink for brunches baby showers or when you need an impressive non alcoholic option on a cocktail menu. I once set out bowls of candied ginger for guests to nibble in between sips
Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration
Maple syrup drinks are tradition in many northeastern US homes especially during harvest season. Ginger and lemon bring a nod to classic sours but the maple adds a uniquely North American fall flavor. This recipe is great through all the cold months and makes any gathering feel like a celebration
Seasonal Adaptations
Try with sparkling apple cider for richer flavor Add a dash of cinnamon for holiday spice Float a star anise pod on top for a pretty winter touch
Save It I brought a big batch of Maple Ginger Sour to last Thanksgiving and it was the only drink that disappeared before dinner. Even guests who usually stick to classic cocktails were surprised how satisfying the balance was
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use ground ginger instead of ginger juice?
Yes, you can substitute with 2 teaspoons of finely grated fresh ginger or a pinch of ground ginger for a milder kick.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Simply increase or decrease the amount of maple syrup to suit your personal preference.
- → What can I use if I don't have sparkling water?
Club soda works well as a replacement. Ginger beer can also be used for a spicier variation, adjusting the quantities accordingly.
- → Are there any allergens in this drink?
This beverage contains no common allergens. If using ginger beer, check labels to ensure it meets dietary needs.
- → Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?
You may mix the maple, ginger, and lemon base in advance; just add ice and sparkling water right before serving.
- → What foods pair well with this?
Pair with apple-based desserts, roasted nuts, or other autumn snacks for a seasonal treat.