Recipe: Sparkling Chamomile Tea Mocktail

You know that box of chamomile tea lurking in the back of the pantry for those sleepless night and days you’re feeling under the weather? It’s time to take it out, because we’re showing you a fresh way to put it to use. Floral chamomile tea is the star ingredient in this sweet, herbal sparkler. From celebratory brunches to parties to happy hours, this simple golden-hued chamomile mocktail is mildly assertive yet light on your tongue, with a sweet, flowery fragrance and a pop of bitter bubbles.

For a better tea-infused minimalist cocktail, skip the heat in favor of cold brewing. This simple process treats you to a more smooth and delicate, full-flavored drink minus the bitterness than can sometimes come with hot tea. It’s just what we want for a light spring drink.

Make the cold-brewed chamomile tea: Cold brewing is easy and doesn’t ask much more of you than a little forward thinking and some time. Add one chamomile tea bag (or a spoonful or two of dried chamomile flowers) to about 3/4 cup of cold water. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours up to overnight, depending on how strong you prefer the tea, then remove the tea bag (or strain the flowers).

For each drink, fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the cold-brewed chamomile tea. Add a spoonful of honey and stir until dissolved. Top off with tonic water and stir together. Garnish with dried chamomile flowers for serving.

It’s time to go beyond seltzer, soda, and juice — shaking up booze-free drinks that actually feel fancy and fun is easier than you think. This series on sober celebrations will show you how to whip up super-impressive mocktails with just three basic ingredients.