Known as a refreshing, caffeine-free drink enjoyed across Japan and Korea. But did you know that this naturally toasty and smooth tea also makes an incredible base for creative barley tea cocktails and mocktails?
Whether you’re looking for a cool summer drink, a non-alcoholic alternative, or a unique ingredient for your next cocktail night, barley tea is the perfect way to elevate your drink game. Here are some delicious barley tea-infused recipes to try at home!
Why Use Barley Tea in Cocktails and Mocktails?
Barley tea has a naturally roasted, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus, herbs, and even spirits like gin and whiskey. Plus, it’s caffeine-free, sugar-free, and ultra-refreshing, making it a great alternative to soda or tonic water.
Here’s why it’s a game-changer in mixology:
Enhances flavors – The toasty depth of barley tea complements any sweet and citrusy notes.
Caffeine-free & hydrating – Unlike regular tea-based cocktails, barley tea won’t keep you up at night.
Versatile & easy to brew – Works great in both hot and cold drinks.
Now, let’s get mixing!
Barley Tea Lemon Highball, Light & Citrusy Cocktail
A crisp, citrus-infused cocktail that’s perfect for a summer evening.
🔹 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold-brewed barley tea
- 1.5 oz whiskey (or gin for a twist)
- ½ lemon, juiced
- ½ oz honey or simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices for garnish
🔹 Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the whiskey, lemon juice, and honey.
- Top with cold barley tea and stir well.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy!
💡 Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace the whiskey with sparkling water or ginger ale for a citrusy barley tea mocktail.
Iced Barley Tea Mojito 🌿 (Refreshing & Minty)
A barley tea twist on the classic mojito, packed with fresh mint and lime.
🔹 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold-brewed barley tea
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- ½ lime, juiced
- ½ oz honey or agave syrup
- Ice cubes
- Sparkling water (optional)
- Lime slices & mint for garnish
🔹 Instructions:
- In a glass, muddle the mint leaves, lime juice, and honey to release the flavors.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the cold barley tea and stir well.
- Top with sparkling water if you want extra fizz.
- Garnish with lime slices and mint.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of white rum for a boozy version of this drink!
Barley Tea & Berry Sangria, Fruity & Elegant
A refreshing, fruit-infused sangria perfect for brunch or a summer party.
🔹 Ingredients:
- 2 cups cold-brewed barley tea
- 1 cup white wine (or grape juice for a mocktail)
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- ½ orange, sliced
- Ice cubes
🔹 Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine barley tea, wine (or grape juice), and orange juice.
- Add the berries and orange slices.
- Stir well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
- Serve over ice and enjoy!
💡 Boozy Option: Add a splash of brandy for an extra kick!
Toasted Barley Old Fashioned, Rich & Bold Cocktail
A sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned using barley tea for a smoky depth.
🔹 Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot-brewed barley tea
- 1.5 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or ½ oz honey)
- 2 dashes bitters
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
🔹 Instructions:
- In a glass, add the sugar cube and bitters. Muddle together.
- Pour in the whiskey and stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add a large ice cube and top with hot barley tea for a warm, toasty twist.
- Garnish with an orange peel and serve.
💡 Non-Alcoholic Option: Skip the whiskey and add a splash of apple cider instead!
Sparkling Barley Arnold Palmer, Crisp & Light
A bubbly, citrus-infused barley tea drink inspired by the classic Arnold Palmer.
🔹 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold-brewed barley tea
- ½ cup fresh lemonade
- ½ cup sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wedge for garnish
🔹 Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the barley tea and lemonade.
- Stir and top with sparkling water for extra fizz.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and enjoy!
💡 Make it a cocktail: Add vodka or bourbon for an alcoholic version
What are you waiting for?
Barley tea is more than just a traditional drink—it’s a versatile base for creative cocktails and mocktails that are refreshing, unique, and easy to make. Whether you’re mixing up a classic mojito, a summer sangria, or a sophisticated old fashioned, barley tea adds a depth of flavor that sets your drinks apart.
Ready to mix up your own barley tea cocktails? Try our barley tea and discover the perfect base for your next refreshing creation!
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