A refreshing non-alcoholic version of a Kentucky Buck Cocktail made with a blend of zero-proof spirits, fresh strawberries, and spicy ginger beer.
What is a Kentucky Buck?
The Kentucky Buck was created by Erick Castro, bartender and co-owner of Polite Provisions and Raised by Wolves (one of the most beautiful bars we’ve ever seen!) in San Diego. It’s a spin on a classic Buck cocktail which combines a base spirit with citrus juice and ginger ale or ginger beer.
The Kentucky Buck specifically uses bourbon as the base spirit and fresh strawberries to give it a sweet, fruity element. It also contains Angostura bitters which we normally aren’t opposed to using since it’s used in small amounts, but we swapped them here for Wilfred’s Non-Alcoholic Aperitif.
It’s ultra refreshing and perfect for enjoying on warmer days, especially during peak strawberry season! For a similar drink, try our Non-Alcoholic Floradora Cocktail.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with Zero-Proof Spirits: We used Lyre’s American Malt in place of the bourbon and Wilfred’s Aperitif instead of bitters. They still add a lot of complexity to the drink, so you won’t miss the alcohol.
- Bubbly and Refreshing: Chilled ginger beer adds a satisfying crispness along with a slight, palate cleansing spice.
- Perfect Spring or Summer Cocktail: It’s the optimal time for ice cold drinks like this one!
Ingredient Notes
Ingredient quantities are listed in the recipe card below. Here you’ll find notes on why we chose certain ingredients as well as any substitutions.
- Strawberries: Pick out the best strawberries you can find. The deeper the red, the better!
- Simple Syrup: For added sweetness.
- Lyre’s American Malt: Our go-to bourbon, but you can substitute it with another bourbon alternative.
- Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed juice in cocktails.
- Wilfred’s Aperitif: This adds a touch of aromatic flavor and bitterness.
- Ginger Beer: We love the spiciness of Fever Tree’s ginger beer. Turn the bottle upside down before opening to let all the good stuff at the bottom disperse throughout the drink (don’t shake it though).
Bar Tools
- Jigger
- Muddler
- Cocktail Shaker (with strainer)
- Extra Strainer
- Highball Glass
Step-by-Step Instructions
This section provides a general overview as well as any pictures to guide you through the recipe. The full detailed recipe instructions are in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
STEP 1: Muddle and shake. Muddle the strawberries and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Add the remaining ingredients and ice then shake for 10-15 seconds.
STEP 2: Double strain. Double strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. Use a spoon to help push the liquid through the strainer.
STEP 3: Top it off. Pour over the ginger beer and gently stir to combine. Garnish with a strawberry half and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Use perfectly ripe strawberries. For maximum strawberry flavor, make sure you’re using the juiciest, deep red strawberries you can find. We made this with tart strawberries once and it didn’t taste as great, so the quality of your fruit definitely makes a difference.
- Chill the ginger beer beforehand. The cold helps to lock in those CO2 bubbles, giving you an extra crisp and bubbly drink.
FAQ
More Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Recipes
- Floradora Cocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
- Non-Alcoholic Amaretto Sour
- Non-Alcoholic Calypso Coffee
- Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini
- Clover Club Cocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
If you tried this recipe, let us know how it turned out for you! Leave a star rating and review below and tag us on Instagram @fancifuleats so we can see your amazing kitchen creations!
📖 Recipe
Non-Alcoholic Kentucky Buck
Ingredients
- 2 strawberries hulled
- ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
- 2 oz (60 ml) Lyre's American Malt or other bourbon alternative
- ¾ oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice
- ¼ oz (7.5 ml) Wilfred's Aperitif
- 3 oz (90 ml) ginger beer preferably Fever Tree
- ½ strawberry for garnish
Instructions
- Gently muddle the strawberries with the simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
- Add the Lyre’s American Malt, lemon juice, and Wilfred’s. Add ice and shake for 10-15 seconds until frosty.
- Double strain into a highball glass filled with ice (use a spoon to push the liquid through the strainer) and top with the ginger beer.
- Gently stir to combine and garnish with half a strawberry.
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