Spice-Infused Mocktails with Health Benefits: 3 Refreshing Recipes to Try
- Astrid van Essen
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
When it comes to staying hydrated, I know drinking water is good for you, but I just find it a bit boring. I like drinks that feel like a treat — something refreshing yet a little more interesting than plain water. And since I love using spices not just for cooking, that’s where these recipes for spice-infused mocktails come in.
They’re full of flavour, naturally aromatic, and often bring subtle health benefits too. From turmeric and ginger to cinnamon and clove, these spices add warmth, depth and a gentle boost of wellbeing. Below are three of my favourite blends that turn simple hydration into a daily ritual.
1. Golden Spice Fizz
A zesty, uplifting mocktail with turmeric and ginger that supports digestion and gives an anti-inflammatory boost.

You’ll need:
1 cup water
½ tsp ground turmeric
2 cm piece of fresh ginger, sliced
3 black peppercorns
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional)
Sparkling water or soda to top up
Lemon slice to garnish
Method:
Simmer water, turmeric, ginger, peppercorns and cinnamon for about 5 minutes.
Strain and cool the liquid.
Pour over ice and top up with sparkling water.
Stir in honey or agave and garnish with a lemon slice.
Benefits: Turmeric and ginger help reduce inflammation, while black pepper aids nutrient absorption.
2. Spiced Berry & Clove Cooler
A fruity, antioxidant-rich mocktail with deep berry notes and gentle spice warmth.

You’ll need:
½ cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar syrup
1 small cinnamon stick
2 cloves
½ star anise
½ cup water
Sparkling water to top up
Orange peel or fresh mint to garnish
Method:
Combine berries, syrup, spices and water in a small pan.
Simmer gently for 5 minutes, then mash lightly and strain.
Chill the syrup, pour over ice and top with sparkling water.
Garnish with orange peel or mint.
Benefits: Berries are high in antioxidants, while clove and cinnamon support healthy circulation.
3. Ginger Pepper Lime Spritz
A bright, refreshing drink that helps settle the stomach and gently boosts metabolism.

You’ll need:
½ cup water
2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 tsp sugar or honey
1 pinch ground black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
Sparkling water to top up
Lime slice to garnish
Method:
Simmer ginger, sugar and pepper in water for 5 minutes.
Strain and let it cool.
Pour into a glass over ice, then top with sparkling water and lime juice.
Garnish with a slice of lime.
Benefits: Ginger soothes digestion and helps ease bloating, while lime adds vitamin C and freshness.
Tip: Autumn Apples
If you’ve recently harvested fresh apples or picked up a basket from a local market, these drinks are the perfect way to use them. Apples blend beautifully with warming spices like cinnamon, clove and ginger — you can add a few slices to any of the recipes for a naturally sweet twist and extra autumn flavour.
Recipes For Spice-Infused Mocktails: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make spice-infused mocktails in advance?
Yes. You can prepare the spiced syrups or infusions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Just add sparkling water or fresh juice when serving.
2. What’s the best way to avoid cloudy drinks when using spices?
Use whole spices rather than ground ones. They infuse flavour without leaving residue, and you can strain them out easily.
3. Are these mocktails safe for everyone?
They’re made with culinary-level spice amounts, so they’re generally safe. However, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, check with a healthcare professional first.
4. Can I use these spice blends in hot drinks too?
Absolutely. The same infusions work beautifully in warm teas, tonics or even as bases for mulled apple juice.
5. How do I balance the flavours so the spices don’t overpower the drink?
Start small. Spices like clove and pepper are very strong, so begin with half the amount listed and adjust to taste.



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