Food |

Orchard Elixir by Mixologist Willa Van Nostrand

An orchard elixir mocktail for the holidays—healthy, festive, and organic

A yellow non-alcoholic cocktail made from organic ingredients

A festive heart- and climate-friendly mocktail | Courtesy of kent dayton / harvard t.h. chan school of public health

This recipe was prepared by Willa Van Nostrand of Little Bitte Artisanal Cocktails for the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health's event Eco Gusto! Harvesting a Healthy & Sustainable Holiday.

Servings: 1 | Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 oz apple cider
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz spiced maple syrup*
  • Sparkling water
  • Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage

Directions:

  1. Combine cider, lemon juice, and spiced maple syrup in a bar tin or jar, add ice, and shake for 10 seconds.
  2. Pour over fresh ice into a rocks glass, top with sparkling water, and garnish with fresh herbs.

*To make spiced maple syrup:

  • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup maple syrup with 1/2 cup water, add 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon whole allspice, 8 cloves, and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Turn off the burner, cool the syrup to room temperature, and strain syrup into a clean jar.
  • Compost or discard solids, or save for another use like mulled cider or chai.

(Note: Please feel inspired to use any baking spices from your pantry!)

Related topics
Food

You might also like

How to Cook with Wild Plants

From wild greens spanakopita to rose petal panna cotta, forager and chef Ellen Zachos makes one-of-a-kind meals.

Eating for the Holidays, the Planet, and Your Heart

“Sustainable eating,” and healthy recipes you can prepare for the holidays.

Best Bars for Seasonal Drinks and Snacks in Greater Boston

Gathering spots that warm and delight us  

Most popular

The Supreme Court Affirmative Action Rulings: An Analysis

The underlying arguments project clashing worldviews of race and appropriate remedies.

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

At informational town hall meetings, faculty and staff press administrators for details.

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

Aerial view of modern high-rise buildings surrounded by greenery and city skyline.

Architecture & Design

In a sea of red brick, the Science Center and Peabody Terrace make their mark.

Harvey Mansfield seated in a bright yellow chair, surrounded by bookshelves and cozy decor.

Faculty

The retired government professor has been a rare conservative voice on campus for decades.

A vibrant group of dancers in colorful outfits poses on a stage with shiny decorations.

Arts & Culture

The Harvard Arts Medalist wants his smash-hit Cats revival to reach “as many young queer people” as possible.