Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: Utilizes store-bought pear juice for convenience.
- Aromatic and Flavorful: Infused with real vanilla beans and maple syrup for a rich, earthy taste.
- Versatile: Suitable for both special occasions and casual gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to individual taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 3 cups pear juice blend
- 2 vanilla bean pods, halved and partially sliced open
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1 lemon or lime wedge (for prepping glasses)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for coating glass rims)
- Ice
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Infuse the Pear Juice: In a large pitcher, combine the pear juice, maple syrup, and vanilla bean pods. Stir gently to release some of the vanilla seeds. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Glasses: Before serving, moisten the side rim of each glass with a lemon or lime wedge. Spread the cinnamon sugar on a flat plate and roll the moistened rim in the sugar to coat.
- Add Sparkling Water: Just before serving, pour the sparkling water into the infused pear juice mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Serve: Fill each prepared glass with ice and pour the sparkling vanilla pear mixture over the ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary, and optionally, a piece of the vanilla bean pod for added visual appeal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep Time: About 30 minutes, including refrigeration time.
Variations
- Single Serving Option: To make a single serving, prepare a glass as described above. Add ice, pour in 4 ounces of pear juice, half of a sliced-open vanilla bean pod, and stir. Top with sparkling water and garnish as desired.
- Alcoholic Version: For an alcoholic twist, replace the sparkling water with Prosecco or add a splash of tequila, bourbon, gin, or vodka to the mixture.
- Alternative Garnishes: Consider adding a cinnamon stick, star anise, or thin slices of fresh pear or orange to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Storage/Reheating
This mocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain its effervescence. If you have leftover infused pear juice (without the sparkling water), it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add sparkling water just before serving to retain the fizz.
FAQs
What type of pear juice is recommended?
A pear juice blend that includes both juice and puree is ideal, as it provides a thicker consistency and richer flavor.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean pods?
While vanilla bean pods offer a more authentic flavor and visual appeal, you can substitute with high-quality vanilla extract if necessary.
Is the maple syrup necessary?
Maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness and earthy flavor, but you can adjust the amount or omit it based on your taste preferences.
How can I make the drink less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, decrease the amount of maple syrup or use a pear juice with no added sugars.
What other herbs can I use for garnish?
Fresh rosemary sprigs are a great alternative to thyme and complement the flavors well.
Can I prepare this drink in advance?
You can prepare the pear juice infusion ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the sparkling water and ice just before serving to maintain the drink’s effervescence.
How do I make the cinnamon sugar rim stick to the glass?
Rubbing a lemon, lime, or orange wedge along the rim of the glass provides enough moisture for the cinnamon sugar to adhere.
What type of glassware is best for this mocktail?
Lowball whiskey glasses are recommended for their aesthetic appeal and appropriate size for this beverage.
Can I add fresh fruit to the drink?
Yes, adding thin slices of fresh pear or orange can enhance both the flavor and presentation.
How can I make this drink more festive for holidays?
Incorporate garnishes like star anise, cinnamon sticks, or cranberries, and consider using a sparkling wine instead of sparkling water for a celebratory touch.
Conclusion
The Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktail is a delightful and versatile beverage that captures the essence of fall. Its harmonious blend of flavors and elegant presentation make it a perfect choice for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply relaxing at home, this mocktail offers a refreshing and sophisticated option to elevate your experience.
Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktail
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Savor the essence of fall with this Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktail, a delightful blend of pear juice, real vanilla beans, and maple syrup, topped with sparkling water. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy evenings, this refreshing non-alcoholic drink features a cinnamon-sugar rim and aromatic garnishes for an elevated experience. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this mocktail is a fall-inspired favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups pear juice blend
- 2 vanilla bean pods, halved and partially sliced open
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1 lemon or lime wedge (for prepping glasses)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for coating glass rims)
- Ice
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Infuse the Pear Juice
- In a large pitcher, combine pear juice, maple syrup, and vanilla bean pods. Stir gently to release some vanilla seeds.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to meld flavors.
- Prepare the Glasses
- Moisten the rim of each glass with a lemon or lime wedge.
- Spread cinnamon sugar on a flat plate and roll the moistened rim in the sugar to coat.
- Add Sparkling Water
- Before serving, pour sparkling water into the infused pear juice and stir gently to combine.
- Serve
- Fill prepared glasses with ice and pour the mocktail mixture over.
- Garnish with a sprig of thyme or rosemary, and optionally a piece of vanilla bean pod for visual appeal.
Notes
- For a single-serving option, use 4 ounces of pear juice and a small portion of vanilla bean.
- To create an alcoholic variation, substitute sparkling water with Prosecco or add a splash of vodka or gin.
- Leftover infused pear juice (without sparkling water) can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add sparkling water just before serving for freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Infusion
- Cuisine: American