Save to Pinterest The first time I made these for my sister's baby shower, I was skeptical about whether a mocktail could feel festive enough. One sip changed my mind completely. The tart lime hits first, then this wave of sweet pineapple that makes you forget you're missing the tequila entirely. Now they're my go-to when I want everyone to feel included in the toast.
Last summer we had these on the porch during a heat wave, and my neighbor kept asking what brand of fancy mixer I'd discovered. When I told her it was just three juices shaken together, she looked genuinely surprised. Sometimes the most refreshing things are also the simplest.
Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: Fresh pressed makes all the difference here, carton juice can taste flat and overly sweet
- Fresh lime juice: Definitely squeeze these yourself, bottled lime juice has this weird metallic aftertaste
- Orange juice: Just enough to smooth out the sharp edges and add depth without making it feel like breakfast
- Agave syrup: Skip this if your pineapple is perfectly ripe, but nice to have on hand for tart batches
- Salt for rimming:Coarse kosher salt or flaky sea salt works best, fine table salt disappears too quickly
Instructions
- Prep your glasses:
- Run a lime wedge around each rim and press gently into salt on a small plate, rotating until evenly coated
- Fill with ice:
- Drop ice cubes into each prepared glass, listening for that satisfying clink that promises something cold and refreshing
- Combine the juices:
- Pour pineapple, lime, orange juices and agave into your shaker, watching the colors swirl together
- Shake it up:
- Vigorous shaking for about fifteen seconds until the outside of the shaker frosts over, which means it's properly chilled
- Pour and garnish:
- Divide between glasses and tuck in fresh lime wedges and pineapple slices so they look as good as they taste
Save to Pinterest My cousin who never drinks alcohol made these for Thanksgiving and even the wine snobs were asking for the recipe. There's something about that combination of flavors that works on everyone.
Making It Your Own
I've discovered that muddling a few jalapeño slices before adding the juices creates this incredible spicy sweet situation that people go crazy for. Start with one slice and taste, you can always add more but you can't take it back.
Batch Mocktails
For parties, multiply everything by eight and mix in a large pitcher instead of shaking individually. Keep a bowl of the salt mixture on the counter so guests can rim their own glasses if they want.
Fruit Variations
Fresh strawberries or raspberries muddled into the shaker turn this into something completely different. The tart berries play so nicely with the pineapple and make the drink turn this beautiful pale pink.
- Peach nectar works beautifully in late summer when everything stone fruit is at its peak
- A splash of coconut water makes it feel even more tropical without overpowering the other flavors
- Frozen pineapple chunks instead of ice cubes keep it cold without diluting as it sits
Save to Pinterest These have become my answer to every celebration, from birthdays to Tuesdays that need celebrating. Sometimes the best toast is the one everyone can share in.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the juices together and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving to ensure it's properly chilled. Add garnishes and salt rim right before serving for best results.
- → What can I use instead of agave syrup?
Simple syrup, honey, or maple syrup work well as alternatives. Adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness level. Honey adds a distinct flavor while simple syrup is more neutral.
- → How do I get the salt to stick to the glass rim?
Run a fresh lime wedge around the rim of the glass to moisten it, then immediately dip it into a small plate of coarse salt. The citrus juice acts as a natural adhesive. Pour salt onto a small plate for easy dipping.
- → Can I use frozen pineapple juice instead of fresh?
Frozen pineapple juice concentrate works well when diluted according to package directions. Canned pineapple juice is also an option, though fresh-squeezed or cold-pressed varieties will have the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- → How can I make this mocktail look more impressive for guests?
Use tall hurricane glasses, add fresh pineapple skewers or lime wheels, and consider adding edible flowers or colorful paper umbrellas. Chill glasses beforehand and use large clear ice cubes for a premium presentation.
- → Is this mocktail suitable for children?
Absolutely! This mocktail contains no alcohol and is perfect for all ages. The sweetness level can be adjusted to suit children's preferences by reducing the lime juice slightly or increasing the agave syrup.