Beat the heat this summer with our collection of 18 refreshing mixed drink recipes that are sure to cool you down and spice up your gatherings! Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, these easy-to-make concoctions blend seasonal flavors with a splash of fun. Dive into our list and discover your new favorite summer sip!
Classic Mojito
Summer evenings call for something refreshing, and what better way to cool down than with a Classic Mojito? This timeless cocktail combines fresh mint, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness for a drink that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- A handful of fresh mint leaves (about 10-12)
- Half a lime, cut into 4 wedges
- 2 tablespoons of white sugar
- A splash of club soda
- 2 ounces of white rum
- A cup of ice cubes
Instructions
- Place the mint leaves and 1 lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to gently crush them together to release the mint’s aroma and the lime’s juice.
- Add the remaining lime wedges and the sugar, then muddle again to mix the flavors well. Tip: Don’t over-muddle the mint, or it can turn bitter.
- Fill the glass almost to the top with ice cubes. Pour the rum over the ice.
- Top off the glass with a splash of club soda, then give it a gentle stir to combine everything. Tip: Stirring too vigorously can make the drink flat, so keep it light.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding a bit more sugar. Tip: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the mojito into a new glass to remove the mint leaves and lime pieces.
Just like that, you’ve got a Classic Mojito that’s bursting with fresh flavors and a perfect balance of sweetness and zest. Serve it with a colorful straw and an extra lime wedge on the rim for that Instagram-worthy touch.
Strawberry Daiquiri
Blending up a Strawberry Daiquiri is simpler than you might think, and it’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you end up with a refreshing, fruity cocktail that’s just the right balance of sweet and tart.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1/2 cup of white rum
- 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup of simple syrup
- A couple of cups of ice
- A splash of water, if needed
Instructions
- Start by adding the hulled strawberries to your blender. This ensures they blend smoothly without any leafy bits.
- Pour in the white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. The lime juice adds a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Add the ice to the blender. For a thicker daiquiri, you might want to add a bit more ice.
- Blend everything on high until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, a splash of water can help loosen it up.
- Once blended, give it a quick taste. Adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding a bit more simple syrup or lime juice if needed.
- Pour the daiquiri into chilled glasses for serving. This keeps it cool and refreshing from the first sip to the last.
The final Strawberry Daiquiri should be smooth, with a vibrant pink color and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Serve it with a lime wedge or a fresh strawberry on the rim for an extra special touch.
Piña Colada
Always a crowd-pleaser, the Piña Colada is a tropical escape in a glass, blending the creamy sweetness of coconut with the tangy freshness of pineapple. Perfect for those warm summer evenings or when you’re dreaming of beachside bliss, this recipe will guide you through creating the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of pineapple juice
- 1 cup of coconut cream
- A splash of heavy cream
- A couple of cups of ice
- 2 oz of white rum (optional for a non-alcoholic version)
- A handful of pineapple chunks for garnish
Instructions
- Start by chilling your glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes to ensure your Piña Colada stays cool longer.
- In a blender, combine the pineapple juice, coconut cream, heavy cream, and ice. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds.
- Tip: For a thicker consistency, add more ice and blend again until you reach your desired texture.
- If using rum, add it to the blender and pulse a couple of times to mix it in without over-blending.
- Tip: Always add alcohol last to prevent the flavors from becoming too muted.
- Pour the mixture into your chilled glasses, leaving a little room at the top for garnish.
- Garnish each glass with a couple of pineapple chunks on a skewer or simply drop them in for a fun, tropical touch.
- Tip: For an extra decorative flair, rim the glasses with shredded coconut before pouring in the drink.
Zesty and refreshing, this Piña Colada boasts a creamy texture with a vibrant pineapple kick, making it irresistible. Serve it with a colorful umbrella or alongside a tropical fruit platter to elevate your presentation.
Blue Hawaiian
Whipping up a Blue Hawaiian is like bringing a slice of paradise right into your kitchen. This vibrant cocktail is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to make, perfect for those who love a tropical twist in their drinks.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of light rum
- 1 ounce of blue curaçao
- 2 ounces of pineapple juice
- 1 ounce of cream of coconut
- A splash of lime juice
- A couple of ice cubes
- A pineapple slice and a cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Grab your cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice cubes to chill your ingredients perfectly.
- Pour in the 2 ounces of light rum, setting the foundation for your tropical escape.
- Add 1 ounce of blue curaçao next, which will give your drink its signature ocean-blue hue.
- Measure out 2 ounces of pineapple juice and add it to the mix, bringing in that essential tropical flavor.
- Don’t forget the 1 ounce of cream of coconut; it adds a creamy texture that balances the drink’s acidity.
- A splash of lime juice goes in last, adding a zesty kick that brightens the whole cocktail.
- Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until the outside feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice cubes for the best drinking experience.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry on top to make it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Great for sipping on a hot summer day, the Blue Hawaiian offers a creamy texture with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Serve it with a colorful umbrella to elevate the tropical vibe, making every sip a mini vacation.
Margarita
You might think making a Margarita is all about throwing ingredients together, but there’s an art to crafting the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and strong. Let’s break it down step by step to ensure your Margarita is nothing short of spectacular.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of your favorite tequila
- 1 oz of triple sec
- 1 oz of fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- A splash of simple syrup
- A couple of ice cubes
- Salt for the rim (optional)
- A lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Start by chilling your cocktail glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes to get it nice and cold.
- While the glass is chilling, take your lime and roll it on the counter with a bit of pressure to make it easier to juice.
- Cut the lime in half and juice it into a measuring cup until you have about 1 oz of fresh lime juice.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a splash of simple syrup.
- Add a couple of ice cubes to the shaker, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill the mixture.
- Take your chilled glass out of the freezer. If you’re adding salt to the rim, rub a lime wedge around the edge of the glass and dip it into a plate of salt.
- Strain the Margarita mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass for that classic Margarita look.
Bright and zesty, this Margarita strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour with a smooth tequila finish. Serve it with a side of spicy tacos for a match made in heaven.
Cosmopolitan
Now, let’s dive into making a classic Cosmopolitan, a cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to drink. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring your drink turns out perfectly balanced and beautifully presented.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- A splash of simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel or twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to ensure your drink gets properly chilled without being diluted too much.
- Pour 1 1/2 oz of vodka into the shaker. Using a jigger for measurement can help keep your proportions accurate.
- Add 1 oz of cranberry juice, followed by 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice for that essential citrus kick.
- Measure out 1/2 oz of triple sec and add it to the mix, along with a splash of simple syrup to balance the tartness.
- Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also properly mixes the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, using a fine mesh strainer if you have one to catch any small ice chips.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or twist on the rim of the glass for a professional touch.
Your Cosmopolitan should have a vibrant pink hue, a smooth texture, and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Try serving it with a side of sugared cranberries for an extra festive touch.
Long Island Iced Tea
Perfect for those warm summer evenings or when you’re in the mood for something that packs a punch without tasting too strong, the Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1/2 ounce of vodka
- 1/2 ounce of tequila
- 1/2 ounce of rum
- 1/2 ounce of gin
- 1/2 ounce of triple sec
- 1 ounce of sour mix
- A splash of cola
- A couple of ice cubes
- A lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to ensure your drink is chilled properly.
- Add the vodka, tequila, rum, gin, triple sec, and sour mix to the shaker. Tip: Measuring each ingredient accurately is key to balancing the flavors.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds. This not only mixes the ingredients well but also dilutes the alcohol slightly for a smoother taste.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice, leaving a little space at the top for the cola.
- Top off the glass with a splash of cola, which gives the drink its signature tea-like color. Tip: The amount of cola can be adjusted based on how sweet you like your cocktail.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge on the rim of the glass for a fresh citrus aroma. Tip: Squeezing the lemon wedge into the drink before sipping can enhance the flavors.
Amazingly refreshing, this cocktail boasts a complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy, with a deceptive strength hidden beneath its smooth surface. Serve it at your next gathering with a straw for easy sipping, or enjoy it solo as a bold treat to unwind after a long day.
Sex on the Beach
Kickstart your summer with this refreshing and vibrant cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to drink. Perfect for beach parties or relaxing by the pool, this guide will walk you through creating the classic ‘Sex on the Beach’ with ease.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz peach schnapps
- a couple of ounces of orange juice
- a splash of cranberry juice
- ice cubes
- an orange slice and a cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays chilled.
- Pour 1 1/2 oz of vodka over the ice for a smooth base.
- Add 1/2 oz of peach schnapps to introduce a sweet, fruity layer.
- Top with a couple of ounces of orange juice, filling the glass about halfway, to bring a citrusy brightness.
- Gently add a splash of cranberry juice; it should float on top for a beautiful gradient effect.
- Give it a quick stir to mix the flavors slightly while keeping the gradient visible.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry on the rim for that classic cocktail look.
Now, the cocktail boasts a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors with a visually appealing sunset hue. Serve it with a colorful straw to enhance the beachy vibe, making every sip a mini vacation.
Tequila Sunrise
Unleash the vibrant flavors of summer with this classic Tequila Sunrise, a cocktail that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for beginners, this guide will walk you through each step to create your own sunrise in a glass.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of your favorite tequila
- 4 oz of fresh orange juice
- A splash of grenadine
- A couple of ice cubes
- An orange slice and a cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with a couple of ice cubes to chill it while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Pour 2 oz of tequila over the ice, ensuring the glass is about a third full.
- Slowly add 4 oz of fresh orange juice to the glass, leaving some room at the top for the grenadine. Tip: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Gently pour a splash of grenadine into the glass. It will sink to the bottom, creating the sunrise effect. Tip: Pouring it over the back of a spoon can help control the flow.
- Let the drink sit for a moment to allow the colors to separate beautifully.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry on the rim for that extra flair. Tip: A skewer can help keep the garnish in place and make it look professional.
Enjoy the layered hues of your Tequila Sunrise, where the sweet grenadine meets the tangy orange juice and robust tequila. Serve it with a colorful straw to stir up the sunrise before the first sip, making every drink a moment to savor.
Whiskey Sour
Kickstart your cocktail journey with the classic Whiskey Sour, a timeless drink that balances the robustness of whiskey with the freshness of lemon and the sweetness of sugar. Perfect for beginners, this guide will walk you through each step to craft this beloved beverage.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of your favorite whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (or a couple of teaspoons of sugar dissolved in a splash of hot water)
- A dash of egg white (optional, for that silky texture)
- Ice cubes, enough to fill your shaker
- A cherry and an orange slice for garnish, if you’re feeling fancy
Instructions
- Grab your cocktail shaker and add the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- If you’re using egg white, now’s the time to add it. This step is optional but adds a lovely frothiness to your drink.
- Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes. The more ice, the better the chill without diluting your drink too quickly.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You’re aiming for a well-chilled mixture with a bit of froth if you added egg white.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice. A rocks glass is traditional, but use what you have.
- Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice on a skewer for that professional touch.
Best enjoyed immediately, your Whiskey Sour should greet you with a perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and strong. The optional egg white gives it a smooth, velvety texture that’s hard to resist. Try serving it in a vintage glass for an extra touch of elegance.
Gin and Tonic
Just like a refreshing breeze on a hot summer day, a well-made Gin and Tonic can be the perfect way to unwind. This classic cocktail is simple yet sophisticated, and with a few tips, you’ll be mixing like a pro in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of your favorite gin
- 4 ounces of tonic water
- A couple of ice cubes
- A splash of fresh lime juice
- A slice of lime for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass to the brim with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays chilled without diluting too quickly.
- Pour 2 ounces of gin over the ice. Tip: Swirl the gin gently to coat the ice for a smoother first sip.
- Add a splash of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick. Tip: Roll the lime on the counter before juicing to get the most out of it.
- Top with 4 ounces of tonic water, pouring slowly to preserve the bubbles. Tip: Look for a high-quality tonic water to elevate the flavor profile of your cocktail.
- Gently stir the mixture once to combine the ingredients without losing the carbonation.
- Garnish with a slice of lime on the rim of the glass for a fresh, aromatic finish.
So there you have it—a crisp, effervescent Gin and Tonic with a bright citrus note that dances on the palate. Serve it in a chilled copper mug for an extra frosty experience or add a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Vodka Martini
Zeroing in on the perfect cocktail to elevate your evening? The Vodka Martini is a classic that’s both sophisticated and surprisingly simple to master. Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you craft a drink that’s as crisp as it is clear.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 oz of your favorite vodka
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- A couple of ice cubes
- 1 lemon twist or a couple of olives for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass or a shaker with a couple of ice cubes to chill it. Tip: The colder your tools, the better your martini will be.
- Pour in 2 1/2 oz of vodka and 1/2 oz of dry vermouth over the ice. Tip: The ratio of vodka to vermouth can be adjusted to suit your taste, but this is a great starting point.
- Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds. Tip: Stirring, rather than shaking, ensures a smoother texture.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. The glass can be chilled by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes before use.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a couple of olives on a skewer. Tip: Express the lemon twist over the drink to release its oils for an aromatic touch.
Finished with a silky texture and a clean, sharp flavor, this Vodka Martini is a testament to simplicity. Serve it alongside a plate of salty snacks to complement its crispness, or enjoy it as is for a pure, unadulterated experience.
Dark and Stormy
You might think making a Dark and Stormy is as simple as mixing a couple of ingredients, but there’s an art to balancing its bold flavors. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you get that perfect storm in a glass every time.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of dark rum
- A splash of ginger beer
- Half a lime, juiced
- A couple of ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with a couple of ice cubes to chill it while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Pour 2 oz of dark rum over the ice. Tip: Swirl the rum around the glass to coat the ice for an even flavor distribution.
- Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the glass. Tip: Roll the lime on the counter before cutting to maximize juice extraction.
- Top off the glass with a splash of ginger beer, gently stirring to combine. Tip: Pour the ginger beer slowly to preserve its fizziness.
- Give it a final gentle stir to mix all the flavors together without losing the carbonation.
Here you have it, a Dark and Stormy with a robust kick from the rum, a spicy zing from the ginger beer, and a refreshing citrus note. Serve it with a lime wedge on the rim for that extra flair and a hint of aroma with every sip.
Moscow Mule
Ever wondered how to craft the perfect Moscow Mule? This classic cocktail is a refreshing blend of spicy, sweet, and citrus flavors, served in a chilled copper mug for that iconic cool touch.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of vodka
- 1/2 oz of lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- a splash of simple syrup
- 4 oz of ginger beer
- a couple of ice cubes
- a slice of lime for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or a highball glass with ice cubes to chill it while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup with a handful of ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold. Tip: This ensures the drink is properly chilled and diluted for the perfect balance.
- Discard the ice from the mug or glass and strain the shaken mixture into it.
- Top off with ginger beer, gently stirring to combine. Tip: Pour the ginger beer slowly to preserve its fizziness.
- Garnish with a slice of lime on the rim of the mug. Tip: For an extra zesty kick, give the lime slice a slight twist over the drink before adding it.
Unbelievably refreshing, this Moscow Mule boasts a lively kick from the ginger beer, balanced by the smooth vodka and tangy lime. Serve it in a frosty copper mug to keep it chilled longer, or try adding a sprig of mint for a fresh twist.
Bloody Mary
Very few cocktails have the versatility and bold flavor profile of a Bloody Mary. Perfect for brunch or as a savory afternoon pick-me-up, this guide will walk you through creating the perfect blend.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz of vodka
- 3 oz of tomato juice
- A splash of lemon juice
- A couple of dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- A pinch of celery salt
- A dash of hot sauce
- Ice cubes
- A celery stalk for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your Bloody Mary perfectly.
- Pour 1.5 oz of vodka over the ice. Using premium vodka can elevate the drink’s smoothness.
- Add 3 oz of tomato juice to the shaker for that rich, tomato base.
- Squeeze in a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Season with a couple of dashes of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Sprinkle a pinch of celery salt into the mix for a subtle earthy note.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to taste, but remember, you can always add more later.
- Shake the mixture well for about 15 seconds to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
- Strain the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes to keep it cold without diluting the flavor.
- Garnish with a celery stalk for a crisp finish and an extra crunch.
This Bloody Mary boasts a velvety texture with a kick of spice and tang. Try rimming the glass with Old Bay seasoning for an extra savory twist.
Espresso Martini
An espresso martini is the perfect pick-me-up cocktail that combines the rich flavors of coffee with the smoothness of vodka. Let’s break down how to make this sophisticated drink with ease.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled
- A splash of simple syrup
- A couple of ice cubes
- 3 coffee beans for garnish
Instructions
- Chill your martini glass by filling it with ice water and setting it aside while you prepare the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup.
- Add a couple of ice cubes to the shaker to chill the mixture without diluting it too much.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Discard the ice water from your martini glass and strain the shaken mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with 3 coffee beans on top for a traditional touch.
Opt for a velvety texture and a bold coffee flavor that’s balanced by the sweetness of the liqueur and syrup. Serve it as a dessert cocktail or a late-night treat that’s sure to impress.
French 75
On a warm evening, nothing elevates the mood like a French 75, a classic cocktail that combines the crispness of gin with the bubbly joy of champagne. Let’s walk through making this elegant drink step by step.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz gin
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- A couple of ice cubes
- A splash of champagne
- A twist of lemon peel for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your ingredients properly.
- Pour 1 1/2 oz of gin into the shaker for that herbal backbone.
- Add 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice to introduce a bright, citrusy note.
- Measure out 1/2 oz of simple syrup and add it to balance the tartness.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Top off with a splash of champagne, gently pouring to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel, expressing the oils over the drink for an aromatic finish.
Every sip of a French 75 offers a harmonious blend of tart, sweet, and effervescent flavors, with the gin’s botanicals shining through. Serve it at your next brunch for a touch of sophistication or enjoy it as a celebratory toast to the simple pleasures of life.
Negroni
Let’s dive into the classic Negroni, a cocktail that’s as straightforward as it is sophisticated. Perfect for beginners, this guide will walk you through each step with precision.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce of gin
- 1 ounce of Campari
- 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
- A splash of soda water (optional)
- A couple of ice cubes
- An orange slice or peel for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass or a cocktail shaker with a couple of ice cubes to chill your ingredients properly.
- Pour 1 ounce of gin into the mixing glass. Tip: Use a jigger for precise measurements to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Add 1 ounce of Campari to the mix. Its bitter taste is key to the Negroni’s signature flavor.
- Measure and pour 1 ounce of sweet vermouth into the glass. Tip: Stirring gently helps blend the flavors without diluting the drink too much.
- Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until it’s well chilled. Tip: The drink should be cold to the touch but not watered down.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes for serving.
- Add a splash of soda water if you prefer a slightly lighter version.
- Garnish with an orange slice or peel, expressing the oils over the drink for an aromatic touch.
The Negroni offers a bold, bittersweet symphony with a smooth finish. Try serving it with a side of salted nuts to complement its complex flavors.
Conclusion
Mixed drinks are the perfect way to beat the summer heat, and our roundup of 18 refreshing recipes offers something for everyone. From fruity to fizzy, these concoctions are sure to delight. We invite you to shake up your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and spread the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Cheers to a deliciously cool summer!
Michael Johnson is the founder of Pan Mastery, Inspired by his blacksmith grandfather’s legacy has a deep appreciation for hand-crafted pots and pans, he provides invaluable guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your culinary journey.