Pink Lady Mocktail with a Refreshing Elderflower Twist

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic beverage that drinks like a cocktail, try this refreshing take on the Pink Lady mocktail: a twist on both the classic Prohibition-era cocktail and the typical too-sweet mocktail versions.

Traditionally made with apple brandy, gin, lemon, and grenadine, the original Pink Lady gets its name from its naturally pink hue and elegant flavor profile.

The complex notes from the apple brandy and gin are difficult to replicate, and many Pink Lady mocktails end up too sweet or a little flat.

But my version adds a sparkling floral twist to make up for the lack of alcohol. And honestly? You might question whether you accidentally added a splash of liquor — it’s that good.

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How This Pink Lady Mocktail Is Unique

High-quality apple juice and fresh lemon juice form the backbone of this drink, with a touch of grenadine for color and flavor, plus a splash of apple cider vinegar for added complexity.

But it’s the elderflower tonic water that truly sets this mocktail apart, adding just enough sweetness and bitterness for a floral twist that mimics the bite of a real cocktail. 

Ingredients

You’ll need just five ingredients for this mocktail, plus an egg white if you want to add the foam topper (more on that later!). You’ll also need a cocktail shaker and ice.

Apple Juice

Go for a high-quality apple juice that’s not made from concentrate for the best flavor and balanced sweetness. I like Martinelli’s (the non-sparkling version). It’s one of the best out there and easy to find.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Fresh-squeezed lemon juice is essential. If you’re making the foam topper, save a few drops to add to the egg white — the acidity helps stabilize the foam.

Grenadine

Grenadine is non-negotiable for both flavor and color. I use Rose’s since it’s a classic and easy to find.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Just a dash of apple cider vinegar adds depth and complexity, enhancing the apple flavor while adding the bite you’d expect from a real cocktail.

Elderflower Tonic Water

Finally, the secret ingredient that ties it all together: elderflower tonic water. I’ll admit I’m not usually a huge tonic fan, but in this mocktail, it’s perfect. It adds both bubbles and bitterness, with just the right touch of sweetness.

I used Fever-Tree brand for this recipe.

Egg White (Optional)

If you want to top your drink with foam, you’ll also need one egg white.

I tested aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute — the flavor was fine, but the smell totally ruined the drink. Unless you’ve perfected a method that works for you, I don’t recommend it.

If you’re squeamish about raw egg or avoiding it for dietary or pregnancy reasons, pasteurized eggs are a good alternative.

Or you can skip the topper altogether — it’s mostly for aesthetics, and the mocktail still tastes great without it.

FAQs

See below for answers to common questions.

Can I make this Pink Lady mocktail in advance?

Yes! You can mix the apple juice, lemon juice, grenadine, and apple cider vinegar in advance and store it in the fridge, preferably the same day you’re serving. Just wait to add the elderflower tonic water and any egg white foam until right before serving, so you keep the bubbles and texture fresh.

What’s the best apple juice to use?

Look for high-quality, not-from-concentrate apple juice. I recommend Martinelli’s (non-sparkling) because it has the right level of sweetness and a rich, crisp flavor that works perfectly in this mocktail.

Can I use sparkling water instead of elderflower tonic?

You can, but it won’t have quite the same layered flavor. Elderflower tonic adds a subtle floral sweetness and bitterness that helps this Pink Lady mocktail feel more like a true cocktail. If you sub in sparkling water, you may want to add a tiny splash of simple syrup or a floral syrup like elderflower or rose.

Is there a non-egg option for the foam topper?

If you’re avoiding raw eggs, you can try pasteurized eggs or leave the topper off entirely. I’ve tested aquafaba, but the smell was too off-putting. If you’ve had success with a different method, feel free to experiment!

More Mocktails that Glow with Grenadine

Looking for more pretty mocktails with that signature grenadine glow? Check out these other reader favorites.