Let’s be honest—sometimes, we all need something pretty in a glass that doesn’t punch us in the face with alcohol. This Mocktail Sunrise is one of those ‘why didn’t I try this sooner?’ kinds of drinks. It’s fruity, a little tangy, and unapologetically gorgeous. The best part? No hangover. I mean, I love a good boozy brunch like the next gal, but there’s something refreshing about sipping this while the rest of the world is still nursing last night’s regrets. This drink brings together orange juice, pomegranate syrup, and a splash of lemon like they were born to mingle. It’s my go-to when I want something that *feels* fancy but takes less effort than brushing my hair on a Sunday morning. And don’t let the no-alcohol part fool you—this still gets compliments at every gathering. It’s bright, it’s cheery, and it behaves itself. Win-win. Whether you’re trying to cut back, have tiny humans running around, or just want to serve something eye-catching and refreshing, this one’s a keeper. It sits proudly in my mental recipe box of healthy drinks recipes, right next to my favorite smoothies and infused waters. But let’s be real—this one gets the most attention because, well, just look at it.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Mocktail Sunrise Recipe
3) Ingredients for Mocktail Sunrise
4) How to Make Mocktail Sunrise
5) Tips for Making Mocktail Sunrise
6) Making Mocktail Sunrise Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Mocktail Sunrise
8) Try these drinks next!
9) Mocktail Sunrise
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

What’s the best way to layer a mocktail for that perfect sunrise effect?
Can you swap out the citrus juices with others for a different twist?
How do you serve a mocktail that feels like a treat, not a compromise?
Is this drink kid-friendly, brunch-friendly, and weeknight-friendly? (Spoiler: Yes.)

2) Easy Mocktail Sunrise Recipe

Here’s the thing. When I want a drink that feels a bit extra, but doesn’t mess with my head (or liver), I go straight for this Mocktail Sunrise. It’s one of those healthy drinks recipes that sneaks up on you in the best way. You pour a few things together, and suddenly, you’re holding this glass of liquid sunshine that looks like it belongs on a magazine cover.

The flavor? Think citrus zing with a mellow kiss of pomegranate. It’s tart, sweet, and wakes up your taste buds without the caffeine. I’ve brought this to picnics, playdates, even meetings where I needed to *look* fancy but keep a clear head. It’s a non alcoholic cocktails recipe that actually holds up next to all the boozy ones.

I always get asked for the recipe. And yeah, it feels pretty great to answer, “Oh, it’s super easy.” Because it really is. You can make it in five minutes. And drink it in two. Healthy drinks recipes like this should come with a warning: ridiculously refreshing and a little too pretty to ignore.

3) Ingredients for Mocktail Sunrise

Orange Juice: Use the good stuff. Fresh-squeezed if you’re feeling ambitious, but no judgment if it comes from a carton. It brings the classic sunny base to this drink.

Lemon Juice: Just a splash adds that sharp edge to balance the sweetness. I usually go for fresh lemon because it really pops, but bottled works in a pinch.

Pomegranate Syrup (or Grenadine): This is the secret to that dreamy sunrise look. When it slowly sinks, it gives you that stunning layered effect. Plus, it adds just a hint of bold, berry flavor.

Ice Cubes: Basic? Yes. But absolutely necessary. Nobody wants a lukewarm mocktail. Trust me.

Orange Slices & Cherries (Optional): Garnish is like earrings for your drink. Totally optional, but always cute. I add these when I want to show off a bit—or when I’m hosting and pretending I have it all together.

4) How to Make Mocktail Sunrise

Step 1. Fill two glasses with ice. Don’t skimp. The colder the better, especially if it’s warm outside.

Step 2. In each glass, pour in about 3/4 cup of orange juice. Add 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice. Give it a gentle swirl, like you’re painting a citrus masterpiece.

Step 3. Here’s the fun part. Grab a spoon, flip it upside down, and rest it near the surface of the juice. Now, slowly drizzle in 1/2 tablespoon of pomegranate syrup. Watch it sink and bloom like magic. No stirring!

Step 4. Add your garnish. Orange slice? Cherry? Go wild. Or don’t. Either way, it’ll still taste great.

Step 5. Toss in a straw, give the glass a gentle nudge toward the light, and admire your work before sipping.

5) Tips for Making Mocktail Sunrise

I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count, and I’ve learned a few things that make it better every time. First up, don’t rush the pour. The slower you drizzle that syrup, the better the sunrise effect.

Use cold juice. I’m talking fridge-cold, not room-temp. It helps the syrup sink and creates a better separation of color. If the juice is warm, everything blends together and you lose the drama.

Finally, pomegranate syrup tastes different than grenadine. Both work, but pomegranate has a deeper, less candy-sweet flavor. It makes the drink feel more grown-up. I use it when I want to trick my brain into thinking this is an actual alcoholic drink recipe. The truth? It’s one of those healthy drinks recipes that plays dress-up—and wins.

6) Making Mocktail Sunrise Ahead of Time

If you’re prepping for a party, you can totally mix the orange and lemon juices ahead of time. Keep that mixture chilled in a pitcher in the fridge. Then, when guests arrive, all you need to do is pour and drizzle.

I don’t recommend adding the pomegranate syrup too early, though. That part’s all about the drama, and if it sits too long, it just blends in. You want the moment, you know?

This trick works for brunches, baby showers, or even just a random Tuesday when you want something pretty to sip on while you scroll. Healthy drinks recipes like this one are my go-to when I want to keep things simple and stress-free.

7) Storing Leftover Mocktail Sunrise

Alright, let’s say you made too much. First of all, who even are you? But seriously, if you have leftover juice mix, keep it in the fridge in an airtight container.

Don’t try to save the fully assembled drink though. The pomegranate syrup will just blend, and the ice will melt and water everything down. It’s not pretty the next day, trust me.

Instead, save the base. Then when you’re ready, pour it over fresh ice, add that syrup, and boom—you’re back in business. Healthy drinks recipes don’t get much easier than that.

8) Try these drinks next!

9) Mocktail Sunrise