Sunset Mocktail – A Gorgeous, Fruity Non-Alcoholic Drink for Any Occasion

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Author: Matt Recipes
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Layered with sweet citrus, tropical fruit, and a hint of grenadine, this sunset mocktail is as stunning to look at as it is refreshing to sip.


🎉 Introduction

Turn your next gathering into a golden hour celebration with this Sunset Mocktail—a layered non-alcoholic drink that mimics the vibrant hues of a summer sunset. 🍊🍒

With bright orange juice, sweet pineapple, fizzy lemon-lime soda, and that iconic red grenadine swirl, it’s a refreshing drink for kids, adults, and any festive table. The best part? It looks fancy but takes minutes to whip up!


🛒 Ingredients

(Makes 2 tall glasses)

  • 1 cup chilled orange juice
  • ½ cup chilled pineapple juice
  • ½ cup lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP)
  • 2 tbsp grenadine syrup
  • Ice cubes

🍒 Optional Garnishes

  • Maraschino cherries
  • Orange slices or pineapple wedges
  • Fresh mint leaves

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Fill the Glass

  1. Fill two tall glasses halfway with ice cubes.
  2. Pour ½ cup orange juice and ¼ cup pineapple juice into each glass.
  3. Top each with ¼ cup lemon-lime soda.

Step 2: Create the “Sunset”

  1. Slowly pour 1 tbsp grenadine into each glass.
  2. It will sink and gradually rise, creating that classic sunset effect.

Step 3: Garnish & Serve

  1. Garnish with a cherry, orange slice, or mint if desired.
  2. Serve with a straw—but don’t stir unless you’re ready to blend the colors!

🍽️ Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 2
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

🥄 Variations

  • Tropical Vibes: Add mango juice or coconut water
  • Sour Twist: Add a splash of lime juice
  • Berry Sunset: Replace grenadine with raspberry syrup
  • Frozen Sunset: Blend the juices and ice, then swirl in grenadine
  • Sparkling Style: Use sparkling water or ginger ale instead of soda

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Best Fresh: Layering effect fades over time, so serve immediately
  • Juice Mix: Pre-mix the citrus juices and chill in advance
  • Grenadine Drizzle: Add just before serving for the wow factor

❓ 10 FAQs

  1. What is grenadine?
    A sweet, red syrup made from pomegranate (or cherry), used in drinks for color and flavor.
  2. Can I make this without soda?
    Yes—just use more juice or sparkling water for fizz.
  3. Is this drink alcoholic?
    No—it’s a mocktail, perfect for all ages.
  4. Can I use store-bought juice?
    Definitely! Just make sure it’s cold for the best layers.
  5. Will the layers stay separate?
    Only for a short time—serve right after pouring.
  6. Can I make a big batch?
    Yes, but add grenadine individually to each glass.
  7. What’s a good substitute for grenadine?
    Raspberry syrup or cherry juice concentrate.
  8. Can I freeze it into popsicles?
    Yes! Pour into molds and freeze overnight.
  9. How can I make it look like a real sunset?
    Pour grenadine very slowly and don’t stir—watch the colors shift!
  10. Can I add herbs?
    Yes—mint or basil adds a refreshing herbal note.

🏁 Conclusion

This Sunset Mocktail is more than a pretty drink—it’s a burst of citrusy sweetness with a stunning visual twist. Perfect for parties, brunches, or just treating yourself at golden hour, it’s the kind of mocktail that turns any moment into something special. 🌞🍹

Serve it with flair, snap a pic, and toast to the colors of the season.

Matt Recipes

Hi there! I’m Matt, the chef and creator behind Matt Recipes. Cooking has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I’ve dedicated my life to exploring flavors, experimenting with new dishes, and sharing my love of food with others.

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