Homemade Zero-Proof Spirits

Level up your mocktail mixology game with easy-to-brew Homemade Zero Proof Spirits. These easy mixers can replace the alcohol in many of your favorite drink recipes.

Four beverages in transparent glasses with geometric patterns, garnished with lime and rosemary, are displayed in front of partially filled bottles.

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About this Homemade Zero-Proof Spirits recipe

There are so many reasons for giving up alcohol altogether or simply skipping it for one night: health reasons, designated driving, an important meeting tomorrow…

But one mistake is thinking that not imbibing will save you money. Let’s be real: Drinking zero-proof can be kind-of pricey. If you want to use one of the 1:1 alcohol alternatives, you’re usually looking at paying $20-$40 for a quality bottle or a pack of canned mocktails.

I have been making my own for a while now and I’m obsessed with coming up with my own flavor combinations to use in my favorite mocktail recipes.

Below are my top three, which work to substitute gin, vodka, whiskey and tequila. They are easy to make and come together in about an hour. And they are just as good — if not fresher and better-tasting — as the store-bought brands.

More DIY mixology recipes: Margarita SugarDehydrated CitrusHomemade Ginger AleSimple Syrups

Three glass jars containing various infused liquids. The left jar has a red infusion, the middle jar a clear liquid with fruit and spices, and the right jar a greenish liquid with herbs and citrus.

Why you’ll love these recipes

Homemade zero-proof spirits are going to be your new favorite addition to your non-alcoholic drinks.

  • With just a few ingredients, you can have alcohol alternatives on hand without breaking the bank.
  • They’re easy to make, even if you’re not an experienced cook or bartender.
  • Zero-proof spirits add much-needed depth of flavor to homemade non-alcoholic drinks.
  • They are great gifts or an easy thing to make for a non-drinking friend when they come over next!

A note from the author

These recipes are just the tip of the iceberg. The ones below will help you replace the most popular spirits: gin, vodka, tequila and whiskey. But of course, there are so many types of alcohol and I couldn’t possibly fit them all into one post!

If you’re looking for something not here, check out Lyre’s, Spiritless and Ritual (affiliate links). These brands sell several of zero-proof counterparts to other popular liqueurs, such as Lyre’s coffee liqueur and Ritual’s apéritif alternative. I’d love to hear it if you come up with your own version of any other spirit!

And if you’re curious, here are my favorite non-alcoholic spirits and brands!

Three clear glass bottles are filled with different colored liquids: one dark brown, one light yellow, and one clear, placed on a white surface.

What are zero-proof spirits?

Zero-proof spirits are alcohol substitutes that are designed to emulate different types of alcohol and enhance non-alcoholic drinks.

The word “proof” refers to the alcohol content in a given spirit, so “zero proof” means there’s no alcohol.

Some zero-proof spirits are designed to mimic their alcoholic counterparts, like bourbon or tequila, while others are blended with flavor combinations that add complexity and variety to mocktails.

Three cocktails in geometric-patterned glasses, each garnished with different items, in front of three clear bottles containing various colored liquids, set on a white surface.

Store-bought vs. homemade

There are plusses and minuses to both store-bought and homemade. Store-bought zero-proof spirits are great because…

  • They are readily available. You don’t even have to make a separate trip to the liquor store! You can often find them at grocery stores and pharmacies.
  • They keep longer than homemade versions.
  • You can find reviews of them online to help you choose the best ones.

But the downside? Zero-proof spirits cost almost as much as a bottle of booze. If you stick to soda and lemonade, you won’t pay cocktail prices.

But if you like to make more sophisticated mocktails, you’ll know that bottle of a 1:1 zero-proof alcohol substitute can be just as expensive as a mid-shelf bottle of bourbon.

That’s because the mocktail movement is relatively new, so there’s not a lot of competition right now. Brands can charge as much as their alcoholic counterparts. (As they should — I support this! But at the same time, it’s not in everyone’s budget. This article on Eater explains why non-alcoholic drinks cost so much.)

If you like having these alcohol alternatives on hand but don’t want to spend money on them, you can absolutely make your own. All it takes are a few ingredients, some hot water and a little time. Plus, you can dream up your own flavor combinations to mix things up every time. They don’t last nearly as long, but they’re so good, I bet it won’t be a problem!

Water is being poured from a glass pitcher into a funnel placed in the neck of a clear glass bottle.

Tools & equipment

Surprisingly, you really don’t need a lot to make your own zero-proof spirits.

  1. Start with a big jar, mixing bowl or pitcher — it needs a wide mouth so you can add whole ingredients (and get them out later).
  2. Boil water in a pot or kettle on the stove (or an electric kettle) or in a mixing bowl in the microwave.
  3. You’ll also want a fine-mesh strainer. A funnel that strains is also helpful.
  4. A finally, a large mason jar or bottle to store it in. This recipe makes 24 ounces.

Ingredients

I’ve been experimenting with three different zero-proof spirits to use in my homemade mocktails. These three can be substituted for the alcohol in many common cocktails, from margaritas to mint juleps.

A mason jar with a metal lid, containing dried orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.

Whiskey substitute ingredients

This one can be used to turn your favorite whiskey cocktails into non-alcoholic tipples. You’ll need:

A glass jar containing chunks of grapefruit peel and two vanilla beans arranged inside.

Tequila substitute ingredients

You can use this one in your favorite tequila drinks, or try it in place of vodka or rum as well for a gently sweet-and-spicy kick.

A clear mason jar filled with water, cucumber slices, pineapple chunks, leafy herbs, and peppercorns, placed on a white surface.

Gin substitute ingredients

This botanical combo has lots of gin vibes, and you can use it in place of vodka or gin. You can try other herbs in this one too. I loved the savory vibe of the ones I chose, but I think lavender, basil, mint, dill and lemongrass, as well as pine and edible flowers, would all be fun to play with.

  • Lemon
  • Cucumber
  • Black peppercorns
  • Thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Boiling water

Instructions

Making these zero-proof spirits is pretty easy! You’ll need a couple of hours, max, before they are ready to use, but otherwise you don’t need any special skills to make these!

A hand is placing fresh herbs into a large glass jar containing cucumber slices and lemon or grapefruit pieces.
A mason jar with a metal lid, containing dried orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
A glass jar containing chunks of grapefruit peel and two vanilla beans arranged inside.

First, place all of the ingredients for your chosen zero-proof spirit into a large mixing bowl, jar or pitcher. (You can do a few at a time if you want to and have multiple large vessels.)

Tip: When using tea bags, you can anchor them to the top of the jar with the ring lid.

A jar being filled with water containing cucumber, lemon, herbs, and peppercorns.
A mason jar filled with liquid, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks is being poured into. The jar has a metal lid, and the liquid is clear, suggesting the base for a homemade drink or infusion.
A glass jar being filled with liquid from a metal spout contains pineapple chunks, vanilla beans, and spices.

Then, pour boiling water over top and stir gently. (Be sure to place on a coaster if your surface is sensitive to warm things!)

A glass mason jar filled with herbs, sliced vegetables, and a clear liquid.
A clear mason jar filled with a dark reddish liquid and various spices. The jar is labeled "Ball Wide Mouth." Another partially visible jar with a light-colored liquid is next to it.
A glass jar filled with a clear liquid, containing slices of ginger and two vanilla beans.

Let steep for 1 hour or until cooled to room temperature. It’s normal for the liquid and the ingredients to change color when exposed to hot water.

Water is being poured from a glass pitcher into a funnel placed in the neck of a clear glass bottle.
A liquid is being poured from a jar into a metal funnel, which directs the liquid into a bottle below.
Liquid is being poured from a jar through a metal funnel into a clear glass bottle.

Pour into an airtight glass bottle through a fine-mesh strainer or straining funnel. Discard the solids. Use immediately or refrigerate and use within 1 week.

A clear glass jar contains a homemade infused liquid with sliced ginger, vanilla beans, and floating red pepper flakes. Another jar with green contents is partially visible in the background.

Tips & tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for making this recipe:

  • When using lemon and lime, avoid adding the zest or the bitter white pith. It makes these taste too bitter, so I recommend peeling them.
  • You can have fun with making your own combinations. Don’t have something I listed here? Try omitting it or making up your own recipe!
  • Try using these spirits in your favorite cocktails first. They are delicious in the classic sour recipe, but there’s a lot you can do to be creative.
A close-up of a glass with a geometric gold pattern containing a pale yellow beverage and a sprig of rosemary, placed on a white surface. Two other similar glasses are partially visible in the background.

How to use Zero-Proof Spirits

These zero-proof spirits can be used in many of your favorite cocktails. Start by using them with a 1:1 ratio.

For example, if your recipe calls for 2 ounces of whiskey, use 2 ounces of the whiskey substitute. Adjust the ratio to your liking, using more for a stronger flavor or less for a milder one (or more of your mixer).

They work especially well with the golden ratio of cocktails, which is 2 ounces of spirit plus 1 ounce of sweet and 1 ounce of something sour. A margarita is a great example, with tequila (spirit), agave nectar (sweetener) and lime juice (sour element).

Mocktail recipes

Try these spirits in your favorite mocktail recipes! Here are a few suggestions:

A glass with a geometric pattern contains a light-colored drink, a large ice cube, and a lime slice. Other beverage containers are partially visible in the background.

Tequila mocktails

Regular alcoholic tequila adds a crisp, clean flavor (and sometimes smoky, if you use mezcal). Our non-alcoholic tequila substitute has flavors of pepper, agave and lime, making it a delicious companion to the tequila drinks you know and love.

  • Paloma: Bitter grapefruit and soda are the perfect match for this non-alcoholic tequila.
  • Margarita: This one is a classic refresher. Don’t forget the margarita salt on the rim!
  • Virgin Mary: Savory and a little spicy, try this one in a non-alcoholic Bloody Mary.
  • Mojito: Try either the gin or tequila alternative with this minty, zesty classic cocktail. (I am working on a rum substitute and will keep you posted here when I get it right!)
A glass of amber-colored drink with a large ice cube and an orange peel garnish, sitting on a white surface.

Whiskey mocktails

Bourbon whiskey is the most common type of whiskey, and our non-alcoholic whiskey substitute has all the same flavors. It’s got notes of bourbon from the barrel-aged tea, orange and spices.

  • Whiskey sour: A cocktail from the Sour family, this one features lemon and simple syrup, and sometimes egg white. Or try a Gold Rush, a riff on this classic made with honey.
  • Old-fashioned: Pour two ounces over simple syrup. Add a clear ice cube and a few drops of non-alcoholic bitters (affiliate link) of your choice.
  • Mint julep: The julep is a Southern bourbon cocktail with a hint of fresh mint flavor.
  • Bourbon ginger ale: Mix this one with soda for a delicious way to deepen the complexity of flavors.
A close-up of a glass with a geometric gold pattern containing a pale yellow beverage and a sprig of rosemary, placed on a white surface. Two other similar glasses are partially visible in the background.

Gin mocktails

Botanical gin has a wide range of flavors, and our non-alcoholic gin substitute really delivers with flavors of fresh herbs, peppery spices and zesty lemon.

  • Gimlet: Another cocktail from the Sour family, the gin gimlet is the perfect template for using this non-alcoholic gin.
  • Gin & Tonic: Add a splash of tonic water over top for a botanical and bubbly beverage.
  • French 75: Use the gin plus some simple syrup and a splash of soda or sparkling cider. Garnish with a lemon twist.
  • Moscow Mule: The classic Moscow mule calls for vodka, but the truth is you can pretty much use any spirit.
Three drinks in geometric-patterned glasses: one with a lemon slice, one garnished with rosemary, and one orange-hued drink.

FAQ

How do you use zero-proof spirits?

Typically, you can use them 1:1, meaning you can use them to fully replace the same amount of alcohol in a drink recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for 2 ounces of gin, you can use 2 ounces of the non-alcoholic gin substitute. However, you may wish to add more or less depending on how you like your drink.

How long do they keep?

Since we are infusing fresh ingredients, these non-alcoholic spirits will keep for about 1 week in the fridge. Thankfully, they are inexpensive to make so you can easily make a new batch each week.

More mixology gift ideas

— Did you make this recipe? —

Please leave a ★★★★★ review or comment below.

Three geometric-patterned glasses containing different beverages, one garnished with a rosemary sprig, are placed in front of three partially-filled glass bottles.

Homemade Zero Proof Spirits

Yield: 36 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Other time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Craft your own delicious and refreshing zero-proof spirits at home with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes for any occasion. Each recipe makes 24 ounces.
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ingredients

Whiskey Substitute

Tequila Substitute

  • 1 whole lime peeled and quartered
  • 6 black peppercorns
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 vanilla bean halved and seeds removed (see note)
  • 1 piece ginger root about 4 inches long, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon agave nectar optional
  • 3 cups water boiling

Gin Substitute

  • 1 whole lemon peeled and quartered
  • 6 slices cucumber
  • 6 black peppercorns
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 4 sprigs rosemary
  • 4 sprigs sage
  • 3 cups water boiling

instructions

  • Whiskey substitute: In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, add teabags, orange zest, cloves and cinnamon sticks.
  • Tequila substitute: Peel lime so no white pith remains and discard the zest. Dice the fruit of the lime. In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, add lime, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, halved vanilla bean shells, ginger root and agave nectar. (If you need to use vanilla extract in place of the vanilla bean, it is better to add it once the liquid has cooled.
  • Gin substitute: Peel lemon so no white pith remains and discard the zest. Dice the fruit of the lemon. In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, add lemon, cucumber slices, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary and sage.
  • All: Pour boiling water over top and stir gently. Let steep for 1 hour or until cooled to room temperature. Pour into an airtight glass bottle through a fine-mesh strainer. Discard the solids. Use immediately or refrigerate and use within 1 week.
  • To make a mocktail: Start by using these zero-proof spirits in a 1:1 ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 2 ounces of whiskey, use 2 ounces of the whiskey substitute. Adjust the ratio to your liking, using more for a stronger flavor or less for a milder one. A great combination to start with is 2 ounces zero-proof spirit + 1 ounce simple syrup + 1 ounce lemon/lime juice.

notes

Vanilla beans — add them to make homemade vanilla vodka or vanilla extract, cinnamon vanilla syrup or vanilla sugar.
Herbs for gin — use whatever you want. i liked these for a more savory vibe, but lavender, dill, mint and basil would all be delicious. You can also experiment with other botanicals such as pine or edible flowers.

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nutrition information

Yield: 36 servings

amount per serving:

Serving: 2ounces Calories: 4kcal Carbohydrates: 1g Protein: 0.04g Fat: 0.04g Saturated Fat: 0.01g Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g Monounsaturated Fat: 0.003g Sodium: 3mg Potassium: 6mg Fiber: 0.2g Sugar: 0.4g Vitamin A: 12IU Vitamin C: 0.5mg Calcium: 6mg Iron: 0.1mg
did you make this recipe?Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram with the hashtag #feastandwestrecipes!

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