When Happy Hour Is More About the Hour Than the Happy
Sometimes you just want the clink of ice in a glass, the ritual of a garnish, and something bubbly in your hand — without the aftereffects. This peach basil spritzer is your answer: sweet enough to feel indulgent, herbal enough to keep you coming back for another sip.
The beauty is in its balance. Ripe peach gives you that juicy, late-August energy, while basil brings the cool, green note that makes it taste like you’re on a shaded patio somewhere. Top it with sparkling water and you’ve got a drink that feels like you’ve been lightly flattered by a stranger in a sunhat.
It’s also a bit of a show-off move. You’ll blend the peach and basil together and watch the color bloom into this golden-pink haze, then pour it over ice like you’ve been doing this for years.
Why You’ll Love It
- Takes 5 minutes from start to first sip.
- Customizable — sweeten it or keep it tart, add more basil if you’re feeling bold.
- Looks like a cocktail, works like hydration.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just pretending to, this is a drink that plays well in any crowd — kids included.
Peach Basil Mocktail Spritzer
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches peeled, pitted, and chopped (or 1 cup frozen peach slices, thawed)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4-6 fresh basil leaves plus more for garnish
- 1-2 tsp honey or agave optional, to taste
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda chilled
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a blender, combine peaches, lemon juice, basil leaves, and honey/agave (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Fill two glasses with ice. Divide the peach-basil mixture between them.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
• Shortcuts: Use canned peach nectar if you’re out of fresh or frozen fruit.
• Toddler-friendly: Skip the garnish and serve in a sippy cup — they’ll feel fancy too.
• Apéro energy: Serve in stemmed glasses with a thin peach slice on the rim.