Old-Fashioned Mocktail

This tart cherry mocktail is a chic, alcohol-free twist on the traditional Old-Fashioned, perfect for anyone who craves bold flavors without the buzz.

Who doesn’t love an Old-Fashioned? This mocktail combines the rich, earthy taste of black tea with the tart and subtly sweet notes of cherry juice, while a few dashes of bitters add a layer of complexity that quintessentially makes an Old-Fashioned. The result is a well-rounded, layered mocktail with a unique depth of flavor that’s ideal for sipping in a rocks glass on a cool evening.

This Old-Fashioned is more than just a tasty mocktail—it’s a wellness powerhouse. Tart cherry juice isn’t just for flavor; it’s packed with antioxidants and has well-documented anti-inflammatory benefits. [1] Many athletes enjoy tart cherry juice for its potential to help reduce inflammation, prevent gout, and support healthy sleep. [2]

Meanwhile, black tea provides a gentle dose of natural caffeine for a mild energy boost, which can be especially useful if you’re winding down but still want a drink that feels energizing. [3] And rounding out this mocktail are a few dashes of bitters to support digestive health. [4]

TIPS:

Be sure not to over-steep the black tea as it can make your Old-Fashioned too bitter.
If you prefer a caffeine-free version, you can try cacao shell tea or dandelion tea. Cool the tea completely before blending with the cherry juice.
Like a traditional Old-Fashioned, this mocktail is best served with a large square block or sphere of ice.
Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) omissions and substitutions are listed in the recipe ingredients.

Old-Fashioned mocktail prepping the black tea.

Old-Fashioned mocktail four glasses finished.

Old-Fashioned mocktail two glasses finished.

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References

Abbey, E. L., Rankin, J. W., & Kanicki, A. (2014). Effect of tart cherry juice on recovery and next day muscle pain after exercise. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 24(3), 401-407. https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.12087
Bell, P. G., McHugh, M. P., Stevenson, E., & Howatson, G. (2014). The role of cherries in exercise and health. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 24(3), 477-490. https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.12085
McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2002). The role of tea in human health: An update. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 21(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2002.10719187
Niederhoffer, M., & Robbins, D. J. (2014). The health benefits of bitters: A review. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 4(3), 159-172. https

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Old-Fashioned Mocktail

Recipe by: Erin Rhae Biller, ND, FAIHM
Serves: 4
Meal: Breakfast

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

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Ingredients

2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp. loose tea)
1 3/4 cups boiling water
Ice
Angostura bitters or alcohol-free orange bitters, to taste (AIP – depending on spices used – omit or sub)
4 orange rind slices, for garnish

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Directions

In a small pitcher, steep black tea in boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and let cool.
Add tart cherry juice and stir to combine.
Divide tea mixture evenly among four rocks glasses. Add ice to each glass, and top with 2-4 dashes of bitters.
Garnish with an orange rind and serve.