Tequila Sunrise Mocktail for Brunch & Beyond

With its tropical flavors and gorgeous layered colors, a tequila sunrise is one of those drinks that instantly makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

Okay, the tequila definitely helps with that. But if you’re looking to recreate the vibe without the alcohol, this zero-proof version brings all the beauty and flavor of the original.

Made with fresh citrus, a tequila alternative, bubbles, and grenadine, this tequila sunrise mocktail is perfect for brunches, baby showers, and beyond.

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Ingredients

You need just five ingredients to create this light and fizzy mocktail. 

Fresh Orange Juice

I’m always a proponent of fresh citrus in both cocktails and mocktails, and this drink is no exception. I love using Cara Cara oranges here (you’ll need 1–2 oranges), but other varieties work well too — just note the flavor profile will shift slightly.

If you don’t have time to squeeze your own, a high-quality refrigerated orange juice is a great backup, even if it’s not quite as bright.

Tequila Alternative

Just a splash of tequila alternative adds a bit of bite and keeps this mocktail layered and interesting.

I’m usually not a fan of non-alcoholic spirits, but Ritual Zero Proof’s Agave Spirit Alternative is actually a solid substitute for tequila in mixed drinks.

No tequila alternative on hand? You can leave it out, but just know the drink will lose a bit of its edge.

Fresh Lime Juice

Lime juice adds acidity that balances out the sweetness of the orange juice. Fresh-squeezed really is best here, so don’t skip it.

Sparkling Water

Sparkling water keeps this mocktail light and bubbly. Since you don’t shake it with ice, be sure it’s chilled so it doesn’t warm up your mocktail. 

Sparkling water gives this mocktail its signature fizz. Since you’re not shaking it with ice, be sure to chill the bubbles so your drink stays cold.

Grenadine 

Grenadine creates the layered “sunrise” effect and adds a hint of sweetness. I use Rose’s since it’s easy to find — just be sure to chill it first so it doesn’t warm the drink.

Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients, here’s the full recipe!

FAQs

See below for answers to frequently asked questions. 

Can you make a tequila sunrise without alcohol?

Yes! This tequila sunrise mocktail skips the alcohol but keeps the tropical flavor and gorgeous layered look. It’s made with orange juice, lime, grenadine, bubbles, and a tequila alternative.

What can I use instead of tequila in a mocktail?

I recommend using a tequila alternative like Ritual Zero Proof’s Agave Spirit Alternative, which adds a subtle bite and depth that balances the sweetness. You can leave it out if needed, but the mocktail won’t have quite the same complexity — it may taste more like citrus juice than a crafted drink.

Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the orange juice, lime juice, and tequila alternative in advance and store it in the fridge, preferably the same day you’re serving. Just wait to add the sparkling water and grenadine until serving to keep the bubbles fresh and preserve the layered effect.

What’s the best orange juice for a tequila sunrise mocktail?

Fresh-squeezed is best. Cara Cara oranges are especially delicious here for their sweetness and soft pink color, but any orange will work. A high-quality refrigerated juice is a fine backup if you’re short on time.

Can I serve this over ice instead of in a flute?

Yes! While it looks beautiful in a champagne flute, you can also serve it in a rocks or highball glass over ice, especially if you’re making larger portions or serving it outdoors.

More Stunning Mocktail Recipes

Looking for more beautiful mocktails? These recipes feature vibrant colors and fruit-forward flavors, including grenadine-based favorites.