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Sleepy Girl Holiday Mocktail is the drink I reach for when the house is buzzing with holiday prep but I want a moment of calm. Tart cherry juice and bubbling apple cider set the festive mood while a little magnesium helps you truly unwind. The result feels just right to sip on a chilly evening while fairy lights twinkle.
I first made this after a whirlwind day of gift wrapping when I wanted something festive that wouldn't keep me up all night. Now I make it every December evening as my wind-down treat.
Ingredients
- Tart cherry juice: Unsweetened brings tang and is known for supporting restful sleep Choose a fresh bottle with deep color to get the fullest flavor
- Sparkling apple cider (non alcoholic): Adds gentle fizz and festive sweetness Look for cider with real apple on the ingredients list for best results
- Magnesium powder: Be sure it is food grade and unflavored for calming benefits without altering the drink’s taste A plain supplement powder intended for drinks is best
- Cinnamon stick: Infuses gentle warmth plus a pretty stir This is optional but adds a true holiday aura
- Thin apple slice: Offers a crisp edible garnish Use a fresh sweet apple that holds its shape
- Ice cubes: Chill your drink to perfection Fresh filtered ice means no off tastes or odors
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass
- Fill a sturdy glass to the top with fresh ice cubes. This keeps the drink crisp and ensures the layers stay vibrant.
- Dissolve Magnesium
- In a small pitcher or mixing glass combine tart cherry juice and magnesium powder. Stir patiently until powder vanishes and the juice is perfectly smooth.
- Mix Over Ice
- Pour the cherry and magnesium mixture slowly over the ice so the drink chills immediately.
- Add Sparkling Cider
- Top the glass with sparkling apple cider Reserve a little space so it does not overflow and create a gentle fizz.
- Garnish and Serve
- Use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer to swirl the flavors then tuck in an apple slice right at the rim for color. Serve right away for the freshest bubbles.
My favorite part about this mocktail is the first swirl of cinnamon as you stir it in Each year I make a big tray and everyone loves adding their own garnish Last year my niece declared it her new Christmas Eve drink and now it is a family tradition
Storage Tips
This mocktail is best prepared fresh to preserve the bubbles from the cider and the bright fruit flavor. If mixing for a crowd you can dissolve several servings of magnesium and cherry juice together ahead of time and chill in the fridge. Pour over ice and top with cider right before serving for the brightest taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a less sweet drink choose a crisp sparkling water or a dry non alcoholic apple cider. For a different look swap apple slices for pear or even a curl of orange peel. Not every magnesium powder is the same so always check it is unflavored and safe for drinks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sleepy Girl Holiday Mocktail in a clear glass so the deep pink color shines through. For extra flair rim the glass with cinnamon sugar by dipping in a little juice then sugar before filling. Pair with a platter of simple holiday cookies or fresh fruit skewers for a lovely night in.
Cultural and Holiday Context
This mocktail draws on classic winter flavors with a modern wellness twist. Tart cherry juice and warming spices are favorites in many cultures during colder months. By adding magnesium it taps into the current trend of sleep supporting ingredients making it both nostalgic and new.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try swapping the cider for bubbly pomegranate in winter Float dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for festive color In summer trade the apple slice for a wedge of fresh peach
Success Stories
Guests of all ages always ask for the recipe when they try this at my home My family now looks forward to our holiday movie nights just for this drink and we always share a toast to restful sleep.
Freezer Meal Conversion
This recipe is not ideal for freezing because of the sparkling elements But you can pre mix the cherry juice and magnesium then store in the fridge and pour over ice and cider when ready.
The right glass and gentle garnishes make this a memorable mocktail with no fuss. Enjoy your very own moment of calm and festive cheer.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of magnesium powder should I use?
Select a food-grade, unflavored magnesium powder to ensure safe and neutral-tasting results in your drink.
- → Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?
It's best prepared fresh. However, you can pre-mix the tart cherry juice and magnesium and chill until ready to serve, then add cider and garnish.
- → What can I substitute for sparkling apple cider?
Use sparkling water for a less sweet drink, or try flavored sparkling beverages like cranberry or pear for variety.
- → Does this drink help with relaxation?
The combination of tart cherry juice and magnesium may promote a sense of calm, making it a soothing holiday choice.
- → Are there options for extra holiday flair?
Rim your glass with cinnamon sugar, add a splash of cranberry juice, or toss in pomegranate arils for a festive touch.