Tart Cherry Juice Sleep Cocktail

This tart cherry juice sleep cocktail is one of my favorite calming drinks to enjoy before bed. It’s refreshing, lightly sweet, and packed with natural ingredients that help me unwind. I love how the tart cherry juice provides a natural source of melatonin, while the magnesium and pinch of sea salt add minerals that support relaxation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like a soothing evening ritual. It’s quick to prepare, tastes delicious, and helps me relax before sleep. I also like that it’s easy to customize with pineapple juice for extra sweetness or fresh mint for a touch of freshness. It feels like a healthy, functional mocktail that I look forward to sipping at night.

Ingredients

2–3 oz 100% tart cherry juice (unsweetened)
1–2 teaspoons fresh lime or 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (to taste)
½–1 teaspoons raw honey or maple syrup (optional)
Magnesium powder (from a pill or powder supplement) – dosage will vary per individual. See notes.
Pinch of sea salt
Sparkling water (to top) – choose unsweetened
Ice
Fresh mint leaf (for garnish)

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I start by adding the tart cherry juice to a glass filled with ice.
2. I stir in the lime juice or pineapple juice, along with honey or maple syrup if I want it sweeter.
3. I mix in the magnesium powder and stir until it dissolves fully.
4. I add a pinch of sea salt, then top the glass with sparkling water.
5. I garnish with a fresh mint leaf and sip slowly before bed.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 cocktail. It takes me about 5 minutes to prepare. I usually drink it about 30–60 minutes before bedtime.

Variations

Sometimes I swap lime juice for orange juice for a softer citrus flavor. I also like adding a splash of coconut water for extra electrolytes. If I want a stronger mint flavor, I muddle a few mint leaves in the bottom of the glass before adding the juice.

Storage/Reheating

I prefer to make this drink fresh since the sparkling water loses its fizz if stored. However, I can mix the tart cherry juice, lime or pineapple juice, honey, magnesium, and salt in advance, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready, I just add ice, sparkling water, and garnish.

FAQs

Does tart cherry juice really help with sleep?

Yes, tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, which can support better sleep.

Can I make this drink without sparkling water?

Yes, I sometimes just mix it with still water or enjoy it straight.

Can I skip the magnesium?

Yes, it’s optional, but I like adding it since magnesium supports relaxation.

Is this cocktail safe for kids?

Yes, if made without magnesium and alcohol it’s just juice, water, and a little sweetener.

Can I use sweetened tart cherry juice?

Yes, but I usually reduce or skip the added honey or maple syrup.

What’s the best time to drink this?

I usually enjoy it about 30–60 minutes before going to bed.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes, I scale up the ingredients and mix in a pitcher, then top each serving with sparkling water.

Can I use magnesium tablets instead of powder?

I dissolve the powder from a capsule, but I don’t drop whole tablets into the drink.

What’s the purpose of the sea salt?

It adds trace minerals and helps with hydration balance.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, I sometimes add a cinnamon stick or a thin slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth.

Conclusion

I love sipping this tart cherry juice sleep cocktail in the evening because it’s refreshing, soothing, and naturally supports better rest. With its blend of tart fruit, gentle sweetness, and relaxing magnesium, it feels like a bedtime ritual I can look forward to every night.

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