Citrus Mint Spritzer

Name: Citrus Mint Spritzer
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 2 cups sparkling water; 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional); Ice cubes; Orange and lemon slices for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Bite Inspirations

I absolutely love refreshing drinks, and this Citrus Mint Spritzer has quickly become my go-to thirst-quencher. The combination of zesty citrus juices with vibrant mint creates a delightful beverage that's perfect for any occasion. Whether I'm hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, this spritzer makes me feel revitalized. Best of all, it's incredibly easy to whip up and can be customized based on the fruits I have on hand. I can't wait for you to try this simple yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:39:28.238Z

When I first experimented with this Citrus Mint Spritzer, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The tangy citrus juices create a lively base, and the fresh mint adds an invigorating twist that brightens the drink. I find that using freshly squeezed juice instead of bottled gives it a much more robust flavor. This small change made a world of difference!

Another key tip I've learned is to muddle the mint leaves before adding the other ingredients. This releases the essential oils from the leaves, enhancing the overall aroma and taste of the drink. With just a few simple steps, this spritzer is not only visually appealing but also utterly refreshing to enjoy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty citrus flavors that awaken your senses
Refreshing mint that cools and invigorates
Perfectly fizzy with a delightful sparkle

Choosing Your Citrus

The beauty of the Citrus Mint Spritzer lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for orange and lemon juices, you can easily swap in other citrus fruits as per your preference. Grapefruits bring a tangy twist, while limes add a zesty kick. Just be mindful of the sweetness level; if you're using particularly tart fruits, like grapefruit, you may want to increase the honey or agave syrup to balance it out. Freshness is key – opt for ripe, juicy fruits that will yield maximum juice for the best flavor.

When juicing, consider using a citrus reamer or juicing press to extract every drop efficiently. It's a quick way to ensure you get a good yield without the seeds. If you’re short on time, you can also find fresh-squeezed options at your local market. However, do avoid bottled juices, as they often lack the vibrant freshness of homemade juice, significantly impacting the overall taste of your spritzer.

Importance of Muddling

Muddling the mint leaves properly is essential to releasing their fragrant oils, which are the heart of this drink's refreshing taste. Take care not to shred the leaves too much; this can result in an overly bitter flavor. A gentle press and twist with your muddler should be sufficient. I usually muddle until I can noticeably smell the mint, which generally takes about 10 seconds. This technique not only prepares the mint but also enhances its presence in the final drink.

If you find that your mint leaves are particularly tough or old, consider giving them a quick rinse and drying them with a paper towel before muddling. This helps to revive the leaves and can enhance the aroma. Additionally, if you're preparing the spritzer in batches, muddling the mint leaves in smaller quantities can prevent overwhelming the drink with too strong a mint flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Citrus Mint Spritzer:

Ingredients

1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
2 cups sparkling water
2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional)
Ice cubes
Orange and lemon slices for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Citrus Mint Spritzer:

Muddle the Mint

In a large pitcher, add the fresh mint leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the leaves, releasing their oils and aroma.

Combine Juices

Pour the freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices into the pitcher with the muddled mint. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add the honey or agave syrup at this point.

Mix with Sparkling Water

Carefully add the sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently to combine, taking care not to lose too much carbonation.

Serve

Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Citrus Mint Spritzer over the ice. Garnish with slices of orange and lemon, and additional mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing Citrus Mint Spritzer!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of gin or vodka for an adult version of this spritzer. Also, feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like grapefruit or lime for unique flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions

This spritzer is delightful on its own, but you can also elevate its presentation by serving it in chilled glasses. Consider using a clear glass to showcase the beautiful colors and garnishes. For an extra touch, you can rim the glasses with coarse salt or sugar, which will add a fun flavor contrast to the zesty drink. If you're feeling adventurous, pairing it with a splash of your favorite spirit can transform the spritzer into a refreshing cocktail, perfect for summer parties.

To make it engaging for your guests, create a DIY spritzer bar, allowing everyone to customize their drink. Set out additional garnishes such as cucumber slices, edible flowers, or even flavored sparkling waters to offer diverse flavor profiles. This interactive approach can turn a simple drink into a signature experience that caters to varying tastes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While the Citrus Mint Spritzer is best enjoyed fresh, you can make certain components ahead of time for convenience. Preparing the fruit juices and muddling the mint the day before can save you time. Store the juices in the refrigerator, and keep the muddled mint in a sealed container to retain its aroma. Just be cautious not to combine the sparkling water until just before serving, as it will lose its fizz otherwise.

If you have any leftover spritzer, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a day, provided it's not mixed with sparkling water. The next day, simply mix in fresh sparkling water before serving. However, be aware that the longer the mixture sits, the more the flavors will meld. So, if you prefer a more pronounced citrus or mint flavor, aim to enjoy it fresh whenever possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled juice instead of freshly squeezed?

While you can use bottled juice, freshly squeezed juice provides a brighter and more vibrant flavor.

→ How do I store leftover spritzer?

It's best to consume the spritzer immediately, but if you have leftovers, store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Be aware that the fizz may diminish.

→ Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! This recipe is already a refreshing non-alcoholic spritzer. Just skip any alcoholic additions for a family-friendly version.

→ What can I use instead of mint?

If you don't have mint, basil or rosemary can be great alternatives that also add a fresh and aromatic flavor profile.