Homemade Zero-Proof Whiskey

Craving the bold flavor of whiskey without the alcohol? This easy, budget-friendly zero-proof whiskey recipe lets you craft a rich, warming alternative right at home. Perfect for the sober-curious, non-drinkers or anyone looking to sip smarter without sacrificing taste.

About this Homemade Zero-Proof Whiskey recipe

I’ve always loved making things from scratch — especially when it saves money and lets me control the flavor. That’s exactly why I’m obsessed with this homemade zero-proof whiskey recipe.

Zero-proof spirits are one of the best inventions of the last decade, but they cost almost as much as a bottle of alcohol. Once I started making my own homemade zero-proof spirits, I fell in love with getting the flavor just right.

This recipe is smooth, warming and packed with the kind of complexity you’d expect from the real thing — just without the alcohol. If you’ve tried my DIY zero-proof spirits recipe (which includes tequila and gin), you’ll love how this whiskey version stands on its own. Whether you’re sober-curious or just looking for a flavorful non-alcoholic option, this one’s a game-changer.

A note from the author

If you’re looking for another zero-proof, check out Lyre’s, Spiritless and Ritual (affiliate links). These brands sell zero-proof counterparts to other popular liqueurs, from gin to tequila. 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, plus my go-to zero-proof whiskeys if you’re not in the mood to make your own:

zero-proof whiskeys

Spiritless Kentucky 74

Buy Now →

Lyre’s American Malt

Buy Now →

Ritual whiskey alternative

Buy Now →

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Tools & equipment

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

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

Here is what you’ll need to turn your favorite whiskey cocktails into non-alcoholic tipples. You’ll need:

• Barrel-aged tea bags (I used Harney & Son’s Black Cask Bourbon tea)
• Orange zest
• Whole cloves
• Cinnamon sticks
• Boiling water

Instructions

Making this zero-proof whiskey is super simple! You’ll need a couple of hours, max, before it is ready to use, but otherwise, you don’t need any special skills to make these!

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.

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

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. 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.

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.

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).

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, simple syrup, and sometimes egg white. Or try a Gold Rush, a riff on this classic made with honey.
• Old-fashioned mocktail: 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.

FAQ

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