Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktails- Spoonful of Plants - Thanksgiving Mocktail Recipe

Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktail: Your Festive Thanksgiving Sipper

A delicate blend of ripe pears, vanilla warmth, and effervescent sparkle—this alcohol-free masterpiece will steal the spotlight at your holiday table!

Why This Mocktail Belongs on Your Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is about inclusivity—this mocktail ensures every guest (kids, pregnant women, non-drinkers) feels celebrated with a special drink. The vanilla-pear combo evokes cozy autumn vibes, while the sparkling element adds festive flair.

Key Flavor Notes:

• Sweet & Juicy: Ripe pears provide natural sweetness
• Warm & Comforting: Vanilla bean elevates the simplicity
• Festive Bubbles: Sparkling water or apple cider brings celebration
• Herbal Hint: Rosemary or thyme garnish adds sophistication

Sparkling Vanilla Pear Mocktail Recipe

Makes 6 servings | Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 5 mins (for syrup)

Ingredients

• 2 ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears, peeled and diced (plus thin slices for garnish)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup organic cane sugar (or maple syrup for vegan option)
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract)
• 2 cups sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling apple cider
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Garnishes: Rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, or edible flowers

Instructions

1. Make the Vanilla-Pear Syrup: In a saucepan, combine diced pears, water, sugar, and vanilla bean (pod and seeds). Simmer for 5 mins until pears soften. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract all liquid. Discard solids. Let cool.
2. Assemble Mocktails: Fill glasses with ice. Add 2 tbsp vanilla-pear syrup to each glass. Top with sparkling water/cider, leaving ½ inch space.
3. Finish: Add ½ tsp lemon juice per glass. Stir gently. Garnish with pear slices and herbs.
4. Pro Tip: For a "pear-fect" layered look, pour syrup first, then slowly add sparkling liquid over the back of a spoon.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

💡 Thanksgiving Upgrade: Rim glasses with cinnamon sugar or crushed freeze-dried pears for extra texture.

💡 Batch-Friendly: Make syrup 3 days ahead; store refrigerated. Assemble just before serving to preserve bubbles.

💡 Garnish Game: Freeze small pear pieces or cranberries into ice cubes for a wow factor.

Perfect Thanksgiving Pairings

This mocktail complements classic flavors:

• Savory: Herb-roasted turkey, wild rice stuffing
• Sweet: Pumpkin pie, pecan tart (vanilla echoes dessert spices)
• Cheese Board: Brie, aged cheddar, or blue cheese

Why You’ll Feel Good Serving This

Unlike sugary sodas or artificial mixes, this mocktail offers:

• No Hangovers: 100% alcohol-free means happier mornings
• Antioxidants: Pears contain vitamin C and fiber
• Lower Sugar: Naturally sweetened (adjust syrup to taste)
• Vegan/GF: Accommodates most dietary needs