Unique & Unexpected Yuzu Tom Collins Mocktail Recipe

Want a fizzy, fun twist on the classic Tom Collins cocktail? The Yuzu Tom Collins mocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. It’s refreshing and flavorful, with a light citrusy taste. It’s the perfect drink to cool down on a hot day. I don’t need an excuse to have a drink. Even if I’m not hosting a party, it’s fun to have a fancy drink anytime of the day. This is why I love mocktails because they are delicious and soothing, but have none of the after effects of alcohol.

With two ingredients and a quick stir, you will have a delicious summer mocktail in your hand in no time. This recipe is so simple and is a delightful way to enjoy a classic cocktail without a hangover or a full night out frenzy.

What is Yuzu?

Yuzu is a citrus fruit native to Asia that’s been gaining popularity in the American beverage market as well. It tastes like a combination grapefruit, lemon, and lime, and just a hint of a floral component. It is about the size of a tangerine, and is often used to flavor preserves, teas, and syrups. It’s also rich in antioxidants. Whole Foods even chose it as one of the top 2022 food trends! Yuzu juice is amazing if you can get your hands on it,

It’s actually illegal to import fresh Yuzu into the United States, but it has been grown in California since the late 1800s. It is usually in stores from November to December, but can be hard to find fresh, depending on your area. Keep reading to see how we cheat and make an effervescent Yuzu Tom Collins mocktail anyway.

What is a Tom Collins?

A Tom Collins gets its name from the American bartender of the same name who allegedly created the drink in 1874. The recipe was published in Jerry Thomas’ Bartender’s Guide in 1876. Like most cocktails, though, the exact origin is disputed.

This Delicious Watermelon Tom Collins is another fun mocktail to try.

Are Mocktails Good for You?

Mocktails, or cocktails without alcohol, are becoming more popular as people become more health conscious. Mocktails are lower calorie than full alcoholic cocktails, and they often use sparkling water and fruits to give them flavor.

I have lots of mocktail recipes on this blog for you to try. Some of the most popular include the French 75, the Moscow Mule, and Elderflower Mocktails. There are also many fruity options available, such as the Pina Colada and the Margarita.

Mocktails can be a great way to enjoy a festive drink without worrying about your waistline. They’re also perfect for those who don’t drink alcohol for religious or medical reasons.

Tips for Ingredients to Make a Yuzu Tom Collins Mocktail

The ingredients for a traditional Tom Collins are gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda. We are going to make this even simpler with two ingredients. The yuzu is going to give nonalcoholic Tom Collins a unique spin.

Be sure to check out these other Tom Collins mocktail recipes, too.

Yuzu Sparkling Juice

Remember how I said we’re going to cheat the system a bit if we can’t find fresh yuzu in the market? You don’t need to put on your hiking boots or head out into the wilds looking for fresh fruit. Here’s a trick you can use anytime whether you can find the yuzu in your local store or not. Yuzu sparkling juice, like this one, makes the non alcoholic Tom Collins mocktail so simple to make. It adds both the bubbles and the flavor. You will not need to any additional sugar for this.

If you cannot find Yuzu juice, I would reccoment using a Yuzu infused Syrup.

Non Alcoholic Gin

In general, gin gets its distinctive taste from juniper berries. The non alcoholic gin substitutes use juniper as well as other botanicals. They come very close to replicating the real thing and will definitely elevate your mocktail recipes to the next level.

I prefer Lyre’s Gin Spirit or Seedlip as it highlights the citrust flavors in this mocktail. There are several varieties available, though, so grab a few and see which one you prefer. Other good choices of nonalcoholic gin include: Ritual Zero Proof, Seedlip’s 108, and Monday Gin.

Sparkling Water/Club Soda

I prefer to use Target’s Yuzu Mandarin Sparkling Water. It adds extra citrus notes

Other Additional Tips

• Use crushed or cubed ice
• Add a fun garnish like fresh or dehydrated citrus wheel

Are Nonalcoholic Substitutes Safe for Kids and Pregnant People?

In general, nonalcoholic substitutes such as zero proof gin, whiskey or tequila are technically safe for both kids and pregnant people. However, some varieties might have an element of that alcohol burn, and kids might not like that.

Pregnant people may also drink nonalcoholic spirits, but I always recommend checking with your doctor first.

If you don’t feel comfortable giving kids or pregnant people the nonalcoholic substitutes then you can replace with soda water, juice, or soft drinks.

Supplies to Make Mocktails

With just two ingredients in this Tom Collins mocktail, you won’t need very many supplies. In fact, all you need is a Collins glass and a spoon to stir the yuzu sparkling juice and non alcoholic gin together. A Collins glass is very similar to a highball glass, but holds a few more ounces and is a little bit taller. If you don’t have a Collins glass, then choose a different highball glass, or just any glassware that suits your mood.

I love this recipe because you do not need to shake or strain or need any fancy bar equipment.

This Spicy Orange Margarita Mocktail is another refreshing citrus mocktail recipe to try.

Appetizers to Go with a Yuzu Tom Collins Mocktail

Who doesn’t love a delicious snack with your mocktail? Highlight the citrus flavors or balance out the bubbles with something spicy. Here are a few recommendations:

• Nut Mixes
• Chips and Salsa
• Cheese board
• Jalapeno Poppers
• Grilled Oranges (or any citrus for that matter)

Can You Make this Tom Collins Mocktail in Advance?

I don’t recommend mixing this up in advance due to the sparkly water. If you mix it too early, the bubbles will dissipate and the taste of the mocktail will change. With just two ingredients, it’s simple to mix these up individually as needed.

This refreshing cocktail has the zing of citrus that makes it perfect for just about any fête, party or get-together. It’s perfect for the long, sunny days of summer, and would also be a unique option for a weekend brunch.

Here are a few other mocktail recipes for you try:

• Fresh and Fun Pineapple Mezcal Mocktail
• Non-Alcoholic Vermouth Elderflower Spritz
• Delicious Kick-Ass Old Fashioned Mocktail