Pin it
A Sunset Mocktail instantly brings a summer party vibe. Those layered colors remind me of a beach getaway. I made this for brunch outside and everyone raved over the gorgeous look and fun flavor. No booze necessary.
My family’s hooked on it for patio hangs. My nieces always ask for another round at celebrations.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: adds a tropical bite and a deep yellow layer choose a juice that’s bold and golden for the best color
- Orange juice: gives that sweet citrus kick and creates the base shade
- Grenadine syrup: makes that red sunset stripe go for a bright red bottle or pick real pomegranate for a natural flavor
- Sparkling water or lemon lime soda: bubbles keep it lively sub in club soda if you like it less sweet
- Mint sprig for garnish: toss one on top for a fresh finish and pretty look just pick one with full green leaves
- Ice: keeps every layer chilly and holds those colors in place
- Orange slice or cherry for garnish: drop one in for style use fresh orange or maraschino cherries
Simple Steps
- Toss on Garnishes:
- Finish with an orange slice a cherry or a sprig of mint for that eye catching party finish sip it quick for all the bubbles
- Make the Sunset Layer:
- Gently stream grenadine down the inside or run it off a spoon so the red slides down and settles don’t rush it so the ombré holds tight
- Pour the Juices:
- Layer in orange juice then add pineapple juice carefully then go slow adding your fizz to let the sections stay pretty distinct
- Load Up With Ice:
- Fill your glass high with ice I like crushed so it chills the drink right away throughout
Pin it
Pineapple juice totally wins for me makes every sip taste like warm sand and sun. My son loves doing the grenadine part—his wow face the first time cracked me up!
Save It Fresh
Since the fizzy bubbles and bright colors make it super fun try to build this right before you drink it. If you’re prepping early just mix the pineapple and orange juices ahead. Keep cold then add ice, soda, and grenadine right before serving for the best show and taste.
Swaps and Variations
No pineapple? Use mango or passion fruit for a new vibe. Out of grenadine? Pomegranate juice gives a tart (not so sweet) swap. Ginger ale also works if you like a little zip. Club soda is your pick for a lighter version.
Fun Ways to Serve
Pair with fruit skewers or hand out as guests arrive at backyard bashes. Add tiny umbrellas for a festive look. Set out a DIY mimosa bar with different juices and fizz so everyone can mix their favorite blend.
Pin it
Story Behind It
This style gets its cue from tiki and island drinks usually mixed with rum. Here, it’s all sippable for everyone. The name matches those golden moments at the shore when the sky does its ombré thing—no alcohol needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you get the layered ombré look?
To get that ombré effect, gently pour grenadine against the glass side or on a spoon so it slips to the bottom without blending. That's how the sunset layers show up.
- → Are there other juices I can use besides pineapple?
Definitely — swap in mango or passion fruit for a new twist and more tropical flavor with a burst of color.
- → What can I try if I don't have grenadine?
You can use pomegranate juice for a tangier and less sweet option, but you'll still get that rich color and taste.
- → How do I make it bubblier?
Pop in some ginger ale or your favorite sparkling water—that'll make it even more fizzy and fun.
- → What should I use for garnish here?
Go bright with orange wheels, cherries, or mint sprigs—they make it taste fresh and look awesome.