What is in a Peach Ring Drink?

January 6, 2026 •

2 min read

The Peach Ring drink is a popular concoction that replicates the taste of the classic gummy candy, often featuring a base of peach schnapps or peach-flavored whiskey, and is frequently topped with lemon-lime soda. This versatile beverage can be made in various ways, with both boozy and booze-free options, making it a hit for parties, brunches, or a fun summer treat. Understanding what is in a peach ring drink requires exploring different recipes and their key components, from simple two-ingredient mixes to complex, layered cocktails.

Quick Summary

Several variations of the peach ring drink exist, commonly combining a peach-flavored liqueur or whisky with soda and fruit juice. Non-alcoholic versions use flavored syrups and cream to mimic the candy's taste. The final product is a sweet, fruity beverage, often garnished with gummy peach rings for a nostalgic touch.

Key Points

Core Ingredients: The drink typically features peach-flavored liquor (like Crown Royal Peach or schnapps) for cocktails, or peach syrup for non-alcoholic versions.
Common Mixers: Lemon-lime soda provides fizz, while cranberry juice or grenadine adds a reddish hue.
Creamy Texture: Many variations, particularly non-alcoholic ones popularized by Sonic, include vanilla sweet cream for a rich, candy-like finish.
Garnish is Key: The iconic gummy peach rings are a popular and thematic garnish for all versions of the drink.
Versatile Recipes: Recipes range from simple, two-ingredient cocktails to more complex, blended slushies and mocktails.
Sugar-Free Options: Health-conscious drinkers can use sugar-free syrups and diet soda to create a lower-calorie peach ring drink.

Core Ingredients of a Peach Ring Drink

The fundamental components of a peach ring drink vary depending on whether you are making a cocktail or a mocktail. In its simplest form, the drink aims to replicate the sweet and slightly tangy flavor profile of the popular gummy candy.

The Boozy Peach Ring Drink

Most adult versions of the peach ring drink build on a base of peach-flavored liquor. A popular and straightforward recipe calls for just a few ingredients. For an alcoholic version, you might use peach-flavored whiskey or peach schnapps. Vodka is sometimes included. Lemon-lime soda adds fizz and helps balance sweetness. Cranberry juice or grenadine can provide a pinkish-red color. Gummy peach rings and fresh peach slices are common garnishes.

The Non-Alcoholic Peach Ring Drink

Non-alcoholic variations, such as those inspired by Sonic, often use flavored syrups and cream in place of alcohol. Ingredients can include lemon-lime soda as the base, peach syrup for the main flavor, and vanilla sweet cream for a creamy texture. Other fruit flavors might also be added.

Popular Peach Ring Drink Variations

Variations of the peach ring drink include options like the Crown Royal Peach Slush, the Bourbon Peach Ring Cocktail, and non-alcoholic choices like a Peach Bellini Mocktail. A Sparkling Peach Cocktail combines Crown Royal Peach with champagne.

Comparison: Boozy vs. Non-Alcoholic Peach Ring Drinks


Feature	Alcoholic Version	Non-Alcoholic Version (Sonic-Style)
Primary Peach Flavor Source	Peach Schnapps, Peach Whisky (e.g., Crown Royal Peach)	Peach Syrup, Flavored Drink Mixes
Base Liquid	Lemon-lime soda, Cranberry juice	Lemon-lime soda, Sparkling water
Key Additional Flavor	Varies by recipe (e.g., vanilla vodka, orange juice)	Vanilla Sweet Cream, Creamer
Taste Profile	Strong, sweet, and tangy, with a prominent boozy kick	Creamy, sweet, and fruity, with a nostalgic candy taste
Garnish	Gummy peach rings, fresh peach slices	Gummy peach rings, fresh fruit, whipped cream
Best For	Parties, summer barbecues, adult gatherings	All ages, family events, hot summer days

How to Make a Simple Peach Ring Drink at Home

Making a peach ring drink at home can be simple.

For an Alcoholic Peach Ring Cocktail

To make an alcoholic version, you can combine Crown Royal Peach Whisky and cranberry juice over ice and gummy peach rings, then top with lemon-lime soda. Stir and garnish with a peach ring.

For a Non-Alcoholic Sonic-Style Peach Ring Drink

For a non-alcoholic option, fill a cup with ice, add lemon-lime soda, peach syrup, and a splash of vanilla syrup. Layer vanilla sweet cream on top and stir lightly. Garnish with a peach ring.

The Role of Grenadine and Creaminess

Grenadine is often used for sweetness and color. Vanilla sweet cream is important for achieving a creamy texture, especially in non-alcoholic drinks.

Conclusion

The peach ring drink is popular for its nostalgic taste and flexibility, offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. A prominent peach flavor and sweetness are common across variations. These drinks are generally simple to prepare and visually appealing, suitable for various events.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common alcoholic base is typically Crown Royal Peach Whisky or a peach schnapps, which both provide a strong, sweet peach flavor to the cocktail.

To make a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the alcohol with peach-flavored syrup and use lemon-lime soda or sparkling water as the base. Adding vanilla sweet cream will replicate the creaminess of the candy.

The signature pinkish-red color is often achieved by adding a small amount of cranberry juice or a splash of grenadine to the drink.

Yes, many recipes use fresh peach purée to provide a more natural, authentic peach flavor. It can be combined with other liquids in a blender for a smoothie-like consistency.

The 'Sonic-style' peach ring drink is a non-alcoholic version that combines Sprite, peach flavoring, and vanilla sweet cream to mimic the popular fast-food chain's flavor combinations.

You can add other fruit juices like pineapple, mango, or orange juice to create new flavor combinations. A simple syrup can also be used to adjust the sweetness.

The most thematic garnish is a gummy peach ring, which can be placed on the rim or in the glass itself. Fresh peach slices also work well and add a more natural flavor.