Inspired by Easter and hot cross buns, this easy mocktail is a decadent combination of fruit, spices, vanilla and a touch of espresso. It can be adapted for a crowd and that gorgeous cinnamon cross garnish is easier than you think!

this recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Easter mocktail because it’s:

• Deliciously decadent: perfect for Easter (and I think this would even work as a Christmas mocktail), this recipe represents everything that reminds me of hot cross buns. A little spice, juicy fruit flavors, sweet vanilla and bold espresso create a truly luxurious sip!

• Simple to make: there are a couple of steps that need to be prepared ahead of time, but they are just so EASY. Once prepared, they can be kept aside until you’re ready to assemble the drinks.

• Health (ier) for you: this mocktail is naturally sweetened by raisin water. I originally chose raisin water because raisins remind me of delicious hot cross buns, but when I Googled it I read that it could potentially have its own nutritional benefits. The milk also offers a hit of calcium and protein, making this creamy mocktail a better choice compared to many of the high sugar Easter mocktails out there.

• A crowd pleaser: Yes! This recipe can be made for a crowd if you have guests. Simply use the toggle on the recipe card below to adjust to quantities to your desired amount of serves. Instead of using a shaker, please the ingredients in a blender and blend on low until the ingredients are just combined.

Ingredients – What You’ll Need

Milk of your choice: I used full cream milk (otherwise referred to as whole milk), but other varieties such as almond and oat milk would also work well.

Raisin water: don’t let this step put you off! All you need are raisins, boiling water and a small container.

Cream: I used regular full cream but a low fat option will also work here.

Espresso: if you have an espresso machine, you’re all set! If you don’t, just follow my easy instant coffee (or decaf coffee) espresso method.

To make an espresso shot with instant coffee: mix 2 teaspoons instant coffee with 1 tablespoon boiling water. Use decaf if you wish. Cool before using.

All spice

Vanilla extract: pure vanilla extract is best for this recipe, but vanilla essence will work if that’s all you have.

Cinnamon: this mocktail would not be complete without its cinnamon cross!

How to make it

Prepare your raisin water the day before. To do this, place ½ cup raisins and ½ cup boiling water in a small container and leave overnight. Strain. This will make enough for 2 mocktails. If you want to skip this step, a non-alcoholic whiskey would be a perfect replacement.

Expert tips and tricks

• You can adjust the amount of espresso to suit your taste. The colour here depicts ¼ oz which was just enough for me. I made this for a friend and she preferred using a full ounce!
• If you don't have icy pole sticks, just cut a piece of paper a similar length and width and use those to create the cross patterns on top of the mocktail.

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Please leave a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating in the recipe card below or leave me a comment if you REALLY love it!

I hope you love this hot cross bun mocktail as much as I do!