Hibiscus of Horror | Mocktail
Hibiscus of Horror Mocktail
This was honestly my favorite drink from the mocktails event. The other two recipes [Lemon Lime Slime Mocktail and Fizzy Witches Brew] were more about fun and color. This delicious hibiscus blend was crafted with care (and plenty of trial and error). I knew I wanted to feature hibiscus for that gorgeous blood-red hue, yet I also wanted a drink that felt slightly warming to balance the overall quite cooling combinations. To keep the red tones while enhancing the fruity tartness, I paired it with rosehips. For that hint of warmth? Cinnamon worked, but I wanted something closer to an autumn “cider” flavor. This recipe was adapted from Tasty Recipes Chef, and after experimenting with apple cider vinegar and a few different sweeteners, I’ve included my favorite variations below. I highly suggest playing around until you find your flavor ;)
Why it is healthful
HIBISCUS (flower petals)-> One of my personal favorites to enjoy as a lemonade in the summer. It is very cooling and contain vitamin C which you can learn more about - here. It is a demulcent yet astringent so it tones and tightens tissues while it also is soothing and protective to them.
ROSE (hips) -> Rose-hips also have vitamin C which is important for overall functioning. The rosehips compared to petals are a little bit more fruity and I tend to prefer the flavor, the petals can be nice aromatically in a potpourri or crafted skincare.
GINGER (root) -> Ginger is more popular in the colder months due to it’s warming and stimulating nature. It also tastes lovely baked into fun shapes and buildings, but I felt it would add a nice edge to our blend. Ginger encourages circulation and blood flow and can be helpful in certain cases of inflammation. Also has some immune supportive effects like other ingredients above.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (with mother) -> Apple cider vinegar is also a traditional staple this time of year. Often found in cozy kitchen remedies and seasonal tonics. The acidity and good bacteria helps to gently support digestion and overall gut health. A splash can balance sweetness and enhances the tart and fruity notes of hibiscus and rose-hips. It’s that subtle spark that makes the drink feel both refreshing and grounding—perfect for autumn sipping.
BLUE AGAVE -> Blue agave offers a clean, mellow sweetness that blends seamlessly with tart or herbal flavors. It’s a great option when you want a touch of sweetness without altering the overall flavor profile. However, because agave is high in fructose and it can sometimes cause discomfort for sensitive stomachs. If that’s the case for you I would consider trying honey or maple syrup instead for a gentler alternative.
LOCAL MAPLE SYRUP -> Local maple syrup adds a rich, bourbon like sweetness that feels perfectly at home in autumn drinks. Beyond that cozy flavor, it carries trace minerals and antioxidants that add to it’s wholesome touch. I love using syrup from nearby producers since it supports local harvest traditions and brings that subtle depth you can’t quite replicate with other sweeteners.
These are the base ingredients. The vinegar and ginger have quite an overpowering flavor, so it is best to experiment with small amounts first and add as you learn. At my event, I suggested maple syrup over agave due to the nature of the drink and how much I really enjoyed the maple syrup in it.
* All recipes and ideas shared here are for educational and informational purposes. Everyone’s body is different, so use what feels right for you and seek professional guidance when needed.
Ingredients & Suggestions
<Amounts are listed below in printable>
<Herbs>
Hibiscus (petals or calyx)
Rose (hips)
Ginger Root
<Additions>
Blueberries (make cute eyeballs with using the sphere molds and making ice with the berries inside)
Apple cider vinegar (with mother!!!)
Maple Syrup or Agave
<Mixers>
Orange Juice
Sparkling Water
Muddle in some fresh berries (your choice)
Welcome!
Hey, I’m Brit. I help you blend the comfort of the kitchen with the care of the apothecary.
You’ll need:
Infusion of Herbs (I like it cooled but you can also try it warm!)
Additions
Pitcher
Straining method
Mixers
Garnish: I did vampire teeth, syringes + the fun ice eyeballs. You could also try different honey infusions to make a red honey for blood, or of course use food coloring for ease.
Instructions
(1) MAKE THE INFUSION: Add your herbs into your chosen vessel, I like the string muslin satchel.
(2) STRAIN: When you decide you would like to do a steam (before your shower or bath is a good time). Simply boil a pot of water (around 4 cups). Remove from heat, let sit for a couple minutes. Pour into your heat-safe bowl.
(3) ADD-INS: Add in your ingredients, including 3-5 drops of essential oils.
(4) MIXER: Create a tent by placing a towel or cloth over your head to trap the steam. Sit for 10 minutes and relax. Practice some breathing techniques here and really soak in the scents, but listen to your body and take breaks if needed. I personally find it a bit overwhelming sometimes, so find what is comfortable for you.
(5) GARNISH: your face with cool water, and follow up with your favorite moisturizer or oil.
A note on our ingredients
This hibiscus mocktail recipe was crafted with color, balance, and adaptability in mind. Each ingredient has a purpose, from the tart and vibrant hibiscus to the grounding warmth of spice and fruit. Rosehips deepen the red hue and add gentle tang, while the rich maple syrup and acidity lets you tailor the flavor to your liking. Originally created as a cozy seasonal sip, this blend works beautifully year-round as a cooling mocktail base or gently stimulating afternoon drink. Try experimenting with your own twists by adding a touch of citrus, swapping the spice, or adjusting the sweetness until it feels just right for you.
<PAIRING TIPS>
Hibiscus is a personal favorite and pairs lovely with other herbs/foods:
Rose
Ginger
Lemon & Orange
Cinnamon
Tulsi
Other Recipes & Resources
Materia Medica Blank Pages→ [Purchase Here]
Sign-Up for→ ‘Find your Flavor’
Trusted Source for Herbs → [Purchase Here]
Find your Flavor FREE Workbook → [Get Freebie]
Learn how to make Lemon Lime Slime Mocktail→ [Read More]
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