Cinderella
The Cinderella is a timeless non-alcoholic punch that brings together a vibrant trio of citrus and tropical fruit juices. By combining equal parts lemon, orange, and pineapple juice and topping it with soda water or ginger ale, it creates a refreshingly balanced and effervescent drink. Its bright, fruity character makes it a delightful and sophisticated choice for all ages, proving that a magical drink doesn't require alcohol.
Preparation
Preparation time: 3 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Cinderella is classified as a classic mocktail, belonging to the family of non-alcoholic mixed drinks that emulate traditional cocktail structures. It's celebrated for its long history and status as a foundational fruit-based, alcohol-free beverage.
Serving
The Cinderella is served cold over ice in a tall Highball or Collins glass. It is a completely non-alcoholic drink, making it suitable for everyone.
Serving size
200-250 ml / 7-8.5 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
The Cinderella mocktail is believed to have originated in the early to mid-20th century, likely during the Prohibition era in the United States, as demand for appealing non-alcoholic options grew. Its name evokes the famous fairy tale, suggesting a magical transformation of simple juices into an elegant beverage fit for any grand ball. It has remained a staple in cocktail books for decades as a go-to choice for a sophisticated, alcohol-free mixed drink.
Origin
United States, circa 1930s. The exact creator is unknown, but it has been featured in mixology guides for many decades as a classic non-alcoholic option.
Cinderella
The drink is consistently known as the Cinderella, a name that perfectly captures its charming and enchanting character without the need for alternatives.
Original name
Cinderella
Characteristics overview
This drink boasts a vibrant, pale orange appearance with a refreshing aroma of mixed citrus and pineapple. The flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a light, bubbly texture that leaves a clean and fruity finish.
Flavor
fruity, sweet, tart, citrusy, tropical
Aroma
fresh citrus, sweet pineapple, orange
Taste balance
sweet, sour
Aftertaste
clean, fruity, short
Fizziness
lightly bubbly, effervescent
Color appearance
pale orange, hazy yellow, vibrant
Texture
light, crisp, refreshing
Seasonality
refreshing, summery, all-season
Flavor intensity & Experience
The drink's flavor is defined by its high fruitiness, with a pleasant equilibrium between sweetness and sourness. It is completely non-alcoholic and has a light carbonation that lifts the fruit flavors.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This mocktail requires three equal parts of orange, lemon, and pineapple juice. The mixture is then topped with a fizzy mixer like soda water or ginger ale.
- Orange Juice30 ml / 1 ozFreshly squeezed is highly recommended for the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice30 ml / 1 ozFreshly squeezed is essential for its bright, tart flavor.
- Pineapple Juice30 ml / 1 ozUse unsweetened pineapple juice.
- Soda Water or Ginger Ale60 ml / 2 oz, or to topSoda water provides neutral bubbles, while ginger ale adds a touch of sweetness and spice.
- Grenadine1 dash(optional)Adds a touch of sweetness and a pinkish hue to the drink.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
You will need a cocktail shaker to properly chill and mix the fruit juices, and a strainer to serve it over fresh ice.
- Cocktail shaker to chill and combine the juices.
- Strainer to pour the chilled liquid without ice shards.
Instructions
To prepare a Cinderella, shake the three fruit juices with ice, then strain into an ice-filled highball glass. Top the drink with soda or ginger ale and garnish with fresh fruit.
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice.
2. Pour the orange juice, lemon juice, and pineapple juice into the shaker.
3. If using, add a dash of grenadine.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
5. Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice.
6. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass.
7. Top with soda water or ginger ale.
8. Garnish with an orange slice, a pineapple wedge, and/or a maraschino cherry before serving.
Garnishing
Garnish with fresh fruit that reflects the ingredients, such as a slice of orange or a wedge of pineapple, often accompanied by a bright maraschino cherry.
- Orange slice or wheel to complement the orange juice.
- Pineapple wedge or frond for a tropical touch.
- Maraschino cherry for a classic look and a pop of color.
Dietary Information
The Cinderella is a fantastic choice for many dietary needs as it is naturally vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. It is also entirely free from alcohol and caffeine.
✕ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
This drink is relatively low in calories but contains a moderate amount of natural sugars and carbohydrates from the fruit juices. The exact values can vary based on the juices and topper used.
Calories
Averagely 95 kcal / 398 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 23 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 21 g
Sugar level
Occasions
This versatile mocktail is perfect for any occasion where non-alcoholic options are desired, from celebratory brunches and baby showers to simple summer afternoons. Its crowd-pleasing fruity flavor makes it a safe and festive choice for guests of all ages.
- Baby Shower
- Brunch
- Children's Party
- Summer Afternoon
- Any celebratory event
Pairing suggestions
The Cinderella's bright and fruity profile pairs excellently with light fare. It's a perfect companion for brunch dishes, fruit-forward desserts, salads, and light appetizers that won't be overpowered by its flavor.
- Fruit salads
- Light sandwiches and wraps
- Brunch foods like pancakes or quiche
- Light pastries
The Cinderella: A Magical, Alcohol-Free Elixir
The Cinderella is a quintessential classic mocktail, celebrated for its simple yet elegant blend of fruit juices. Its name perfectly reflects its charming and almost magical ability to delight the palate without any alcohol. The equal-parts recipe of orange, lemon, and pineapple juice creates a perfect harmony of sweet and tart, while the fizzy topping adds a refreshing, celebratory lift. It's an enduring, all-ages favorite that brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering.
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