Cinco de Mayo Mocktail Recipes

Cinco de Mayo is the perfect excuse to mix up something festive without waking up feeling like garbage the next day, and that’s exactly what these Cinco de Mayo mocktail recipes deliver. If you’re looking for easy margarita mocktails or fresh non-alcoholic drinks that still feel fun and indulgent, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re hosting a party, making tacos for the family, or just want a drink that won’t derail your sleep or your mood, these recipes bring all the flavor (think citrus, spice, and a little sweetness) without overdoing the alcohol. This is your go-to guide for lighter, better-for-you Cinco de Mayo drinks that actually taste good and fit real life.

Many of these recipes can be made with or without a nonalcoholic spirit, though one will greatly help you recreate the flavors of a real cocktail, sans booze. If I was going to purchase one bottle of non-alcoholic spirits to make drinks with this summer it would be tequila for the robust flavor profile and versatility. You'll see it listed in many recipes below and this one by Free Spirits is my top pick. I reviewed 10 other tequilas and this one is just the best. It's low calorie, tastes delicious with notes of agave, pepper and charred oak, and easy to find online or on Amazon. Cheers!

Frozen Paloma Mocktails (Makes 2):

• 6 oz ruby red grapefruit juice ice cubes - freeze the night before

• 5 oz n/a tequila

• 1.5 oz lime juice 

• 1 oz agave 

• 2 oz grapefruit soda 

Instructions:

Freeze your juice in an ice cube tray the night before - this prevents the drink from being too watered down. Blend all five ingredients together until smooth. Depending on your preference you may need to add a little extra ice. I serve with a tajin rim and slice of lime or grapefruit.

Habanero Coconut Margarita:

• 1 oz lime juice

• 2 slices habanero pepper

• .75 oz coconut cream

• 2 oz coconut milk 

• 2 oz n/a tequila

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker muddle the first 2 ingredients together. Add ice, remaining ingredients and shake vigorously. Serve in a rocks glass with fresh ice.

World's Best Mojito Mocktail:

• 1/2 lime cut up

• 4-5 mint leaves 

• .75 oz lime zest syrup (recipe)

• Club soda 

Instructions:

In a tumbler add your lime and mint and gently muddle. Fill with pebble ice and top with syrup and soda. Watch this full recipe here.

"Trick Me" Scratch Margarita:

• 2.5 oz n/a tequila (highly recommend this one, it may not taste as good with another brand)

• 1 oz fresh lime juice 

• .75 oz hot agave

• .5 oz fresh oj (not store bought if possible, this will help smooth out the flavors) 

• Optional: coarse salt rim 

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice add all ingredients and shake vigorously. Serve in a rocks glass with fresh ice, optional salt rim.

0% Ranch Water

• 1 bottle Topo Chico, half poured out

• 2 oz n/a tequila

• 2 oz juice of your choice (pineapple, peach nectar, guava) or you can omit for a traditional zero variation

• 1 oz lime juice

Instructions:

Pour out half the soda and then slowly add in the other ingredients. Pour the lime very slowly - the citric acid can bubble over quickly.

Dragonfruit Margarita (Makes 4-6 Servings)

• 2 C frozen dragonfruit (I’ve found it at Target, Trader Joe's and Safeway)

• 1.5 C Free Spirits Non-Alcoholic Tequila

• 1 C pineapple juice

• .5 C fresh lime juice

• 1 C of ice (you may need to adjust based on desired consistency but start here)

• Garnish ideas: salt or sugar rim, slices of fresh dragonfruit or lime

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into rimmed glasses (if using sale) & garnish.

Try making Pineapple Flower Garnishes with this recipe, they look beautiful on top of margaritas!