Summer is here, and the warm weather calls for refreshing drinks that can quench our thirst and lift our spirits. And in the South, where the sun shines bright and the days are long, there's no shortage of delicious beverages to choose from.
Whether you're lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply relaxing on your porch, sipping on a cold drink is the perfect way to beat the heat.
But what makes a Southern Summer Cocktail truly special? Is it the use of fresh, local ingredients? The combination of sweet and tangy flavors? The nod to tradition and history?
It's all of these things and more. Southern Summer Cocktails are more than just drinks; they're a celebration of the region's culture, hospitality, and joie de vivre.
So, what are some of the best Southern Summer Cocktail recipes? From classic favorites to modern twists, there's something for everyone.
Whether you prefer bourbon, gin, rum, or tequila, there's a cocktail that will suit your taste buds. And with so many different ingredients and variations to choose from, you can mix and match until you find your perfect blend.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best Southern Summer Cocktail recipes out there. We'll take a deep dive into the history and culture behind each drink, and we'll offer tips and tricks for making them at home.
So grab your shaker, dust off your jigger, and get ready to mix up some magic. It's time to raise a glass to summer in the South!
1. Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash
The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves the flavors of late summer and early fall. This cocktail combines the sweetness of grilled Okanagan peaches with the smoky flavor of Knob Creek's Smoked Maple Bourbon Whisky. The addition of 100% pure Canadian maple syrup, fresh thyme, spicy ginger beer, and a dash of bitters creates a well-balanced and flavorful cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a warm Southern evening.
The cocktail is garnished with grilled peach slices, a sprig of fresh thyme, and edible flowers, making it as beautiful as it is delicious. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, the Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
2. The Cape Codder Cocktail
The Cape Codder Cocktail is a delightful summer drink that is sure to please anyone who enjoys a refreshing beverage. Made with Rivulet Pecan Liqueur, this cocktail has a deep flavor that is perfectly complemented by the addition of triple sec. The drink's bright color is sure to catch your eye and make you want to try it out for yourself.
While we can't give away the recipe, we can tell you that it's easy to make and perfect for sipping on your back porch on a hot summer day. So, if you're looking for a new cocktail to try out this summer, be sure to give The Cape Codder Cocktail a try. Trust us, you won't be disappointed!
3. Alabama Slammer
The Alabama Slammer is a sweet and fruity summer cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm Southern evening. This cocktail is a fan favorite for those who enjoy a flavorful drink with a kick of alcohol. With its fruity undertones, the Alabama Slammer is a great option for those who prefer a refreshing and light cocktail.
This cocktail is perfect for enjoying on your front porch or at a summer gathering with friends. If you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Alabama Slammer is definitely worth a try.
4. Pink Coconut Frost Cocktail
One of the best Southern Summer Cocktail recipes is the Pink Coconut Frost Cocktail. It's a sweet and refreshing drink that will transport you to a tropical island. This girly cocktail is made with a combination of rum and vodka, but you can switch it up with coconut-flavored rum for an extra coconutty taste.
The pink lemonade concentrate and maraschino cherry juice give it a beautiful pink hue and a sweet taste that complements the coconut flavor. This creamy drink is made with cream of coconut, which gives it a thick and smooth texture. If you're looking for a delicious and fun cocktail to enjoy during the summer, the Pink Coconut Frost Cocktail is a must-try.
5. Hibiscus Mojito
The Hibiscus Mojito is a refreshing and all-natural cocktail that is perfect for spring and summer sipping. This cocktail combines tangy and floral hibiscus syrup with refreshing mint, zesty lime, and a boozy kick of rum. The addition of club soda adds a fizzy finish to this already delightful cocktail.
The Hibiscus Mojito is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a garden party, a BBQ, or a day lounging by the pool. This cocktail is not overly sweet, making it a great option for both men and women. So, if you're looking for a healthy and simple minty floral drink that transports you to the tropics, the Hibiscus Mojito is the perfect choice for you.
6. Strawberry Sunset Lemon Drop
The Strawberry Sunset Lemon Drop is a refreshing and tropical cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of a Southern summer. It's a fruity and spirited drink that can be enjoyed by the whole family as a mocktail or a cocktail. The combination of fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and vodka creates a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that will transport you to a lazy day by the pool.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day while reminiscing about past vacations or making new memories with loved ones. The Strawberry Sunset Lemon Drop is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of the South in a glass.
7. Berry Mojitos
Berry Mojitos are a refreshing and colorful addition to any summer celebration. Made with fresh blueberries and raspberries, this cocktail is perfect for those who love fruity drinks. The drink is a combination of muddled mint, lime, light rum, and blueberry pie filling, which gives it a unique flavor and a beautiful color.
The recipe makes a strong drink, but it can be easily adjusted by adding more club soda or simple syrup. Whether you're celebrating Independence Day or just enjoying a sunny day, Berry Mojitos are sure to impress your guests. So, why not try this delicious cocktail at your next summer gathering and see for yourself why it's one of the best Southern Summer Cocktail recipes out there.
8. Alabama Slammer Cocktail
The Alabama Slammer Cocktail is a sweet and fruity drink made with Southern Comfort, sloe gin, and amaretto. Its bright red color is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, and it's a popular drink among Crimson Tide fans.
The origins of the drink are a mystery, but it's a delicious and refreshing beverage that's perfect for any summer occasion.
9. Lemon Shandy
The Lemon Shandy is a classic drink that has been around since the mid-nineteenth century. It's a refreshing combination of beer and lemonade that is perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is easy to make and is a great choice for tailgating, game day, or your next backyard party.
The combination of lemon with a wheat beer or light lager is a match made in heaven. The addition of a twist of lemon adds a touch of freshness to the drink. If you're looking for a thirst-quenching drink that's perfect for a summer day, the Lemon Shandy is definitely worth a try.
10. Spicy Spiked Strawberry Lemonade
Looking for a unique and refreshing Southern Summer Cocktail? Look no further than the Spicy Spiked Strawberry Lemonade! This cocktail is a delicious twist on a classic lemonade, with fresh strawberry puree and a splash of Fireball cinnamon whiskey for a spicy kick.
The ombre sunset color of the drink adds to its appeal, making it a perfect addition to any summer party or gathering. If you're a fan of strawberries and looking for something a little different than the usual fruity cocktails, this Sassy Southern Spiked Strawberry Lemonade is definitely worth a try.
11. Fresh Peach Bourbon Sour
The Fresh Peach Bourbon Sour is a delightful twist on the classic whiskey sour. Infused with homemade peach simple syrup and fresh lemon juice, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. The bourbon adds a touch of sweetness, while the peach simple syrup adds a subtle, fruity flavor.
This cocktail is easy to make and is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. With its refreshing taste and beautiful presentation, the Fresh Peach Bourbon Sour is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious Southern summer cocktail.
12. Peach Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Peach Old Fashioned Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing Southern summer drink. This cocktail is made with just four ingredients, including bourbon and real peach juice, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor.
The addition of muddled peach slices infuses the cocktail with a nice peachy taste, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. If you're not a bourbon drinker, this cocktail might just change your mind. So, head to your local bar or make it at home, and give this Peach Old Fashioned Cocktail a try!
13. Scarlett O'Hara
The Scarlett O'Hara is a classic Southern cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. It's a refreshing blend of tart cranberry juice, Southern Comfort, and fresh lime juice. The cranberry flavor dominates the drink, while the Southern Comfort adds a hint of whiskey, fruit, and spice.
Sipping on this cocktail is like taking a sip of summer in the South. It's a must-try for anyone looking to explore the best Southern summer cocktails. So, if you're looking for a drink that's both tart and refreshing, the Scarlett O'Hara is the perfect choice.
14. Tropical White Wine Sangria
Looking for a refreshing Southern Summer Cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot day? Look no further than the Tropical White Wine Sangria. This dreamy cocktail is a mix of white wine, rum, pineapple and orange juice, and freshly sliced fruit.
It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it the perfect drink to enjoy while sitting on a porch swing or lounging by the pool. The fruity flavors make it a hit with both wine and cocktail lovers alike, and the presentation is beautiful. So why not give this Tropical White Wine Sangria a try and enjoy a bit of Summer in every sip?
15. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail? Look no further than the Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco! Made with fresh muddled raspberries, lemon, and your favorite sparkling wine, this cocktail is the perfect combination of sweet and tart.
The Limoncello adds a nice kick to the drink, while the raspberries and lemon give it a fruity and refreshing taste. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just looking for a way to unwind after a long day, this cocktail is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and enjoy the taste of summer in a glass?
16. Southern Orangeade
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful summer cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a hot day? Look no further than Southern Orangeade! This classic southern soda fountain favorite is a perfect beverage for summer.
Made with fresh-squeezed orange juice, simple syrup, and a few secret ingredients, this cocktail is sweet, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day, and it's sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good citrusy cocktail. So why not give Southern Orangeade a try this summer? You won't be disappointed!
17. Vodka Strawberry Lemonade
The Southern Summer Cocktail recipe for Vodka Strawberry Lemonade is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is a delicious blend of sweet, ripe strawberries, tangy lemonade, and smooth vodka. It's a perfect balance of sweet and sour, and the addition of vodka gives it a nice kick.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be served as a single drink or as a punch for a large gathering. It's a great option for those who enjoy fruity cocktails with a bit of a twist. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to enjoy during the hot summer months, then the Vodka Strawberry Lemonade is definitely worth trying.
18. Pimm's Cup Cocktail
The Pimm's Cup Cocktail is a refreshing and balanced drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. With its fruity and herbal notes, it is not too sweet or too strong, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter cocktail.
This classic cocktail is easy to make and can be customized with a variety of garnishes, including cucumber, strawberry, and orange. Whether you are lounging by the pool or enjoying a summer BBQ, the Pimm's Cup Cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why it has become a beloved Southern summer cocktail?
19. Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer
The Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer is a delightful twist on a classic Southern summer beverage. This cocktail takes the refreshing combination of tea and lemonade, adds a shot of bourbon, and tops it off with peach liqueur for a sweet and tangy flavor.
It's the perfect drink to cool down with after a long day in the sun or to enjoy while relaxing on the porch. The Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer is a must-try for bourbon lovers and anyone looking for a refreshing summer cocktail with a Southern twist.
20. Bourbon Peach Smash
The Bourbon Peach Smash is a refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of a Southern summer. It has a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with juicy peaches and a subtle hint of rosemary.
The muddling technique used releases the flavors and oils of the fresh fruit and herbs, resulting in a complex and satisfying drink. It's perfect for sipping on a warm summer day and can be easily customized with different herbs. Give it a try and experience one of the best Southern summer cocktails around.
21. Paloma Aperol Spritz
The Paloma Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and flavorful summer cocktail that is perfect for any Southern gathering. Made with Aperol, grapefruit soda, tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with prosecco, this cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet and slightly bitter flavors. The addition of tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice makes it a true Paloma, a popular cocktail in Mexico.
Aperol, an aperitif with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, pairs perfectly with Prosecco or Champagne, making this cocktail a perfect aperitif for any Southern summer meal. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or a summer soirée, the Paloma Aperol Spritz is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
22. Jalapeno Watermelon Margarita
The Jalapeno Watermelon Margarita is a Southern Summer Cocktail that combines fresh watermelon puree, lime juice, jalapeno-infused tequila, and Triple Sec. The infusion of jalapeno peppers adds a unique and exciting flavor to the drink, making it perfect for a hot summer day.
The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy is sure to wake up your taste buds and make you feel refreshed. If you're looking for a unique and exciting cocktail to try this summer, the Jalapeno Watermelon Margarita is definitely worth a shot.
23. Charleston Light Dragoon's Punch
Charleston Light Dragoon's Punch is a deceptively refreshing cocktail that packs a punch. This signature drink from Sean Brock's Husk in Charleston, SC has been a favorite for years. The recipe calls for a large batch, making it perfect for a summer party with friends.
The original recipe has a bit more sugar, but this version is perfectly balanced. The cocktail is a must-try for anyone visiting Husk, and it's sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. With its refreshing taste and potent kick, Charleston Light Dragoon's Punch is a standout Southern summer cocktail that should not be missed.
24. Spicy Ranch Water
The Spicy Ranch Water is a tequila-based cocktail originating from West Texas. It's a twist on the classic Ranch Water, with the addition of jalapeno for an extra kick. The cocktail is made with fresh lime juice, a blanco tequila, and sparkling mineral water.
The rim of the glass is coated with a spicy seasoning or sea salt, and garnished with jalapeno slices, lime wedges, and cilantro. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their drinks and is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.
25. The Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail made with brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. It's a refreshing and citrusy drink that's perfect for sipping on during hot summer days.
The orange liqueur and lemon juice provide a tart and tangy taste that's less sweet than many modern cocktails. It pairs well with savory dishes like a Basil Mozzarella Grilled Cheese. Give it a try and see why it's been a favorite for almost a century.
26. Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to enjoy during the summer season? Look no further than the Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail. This classic Southern drink combines the bold flavors of bourbon with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the refreshing taste of mint tea.
The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail that is not too sweet, making it a great option for those who prefer their drinks on the drier side. The addition of fresh fruit makes it a great choice for those looking to incorporate more seasonal produce into their cocktails. Whether you're sipping it on a hot summer day or enjoying it at a backyard barbecue, the Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail is sure to impress.
27. Strawberry Mojito
The Strawberry Mojito is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for a Southern summer. This fizzy and minty drink is packed with fresh strawberries and lime, making it a fruity twist on the classic mojito. The cocktail can be made with or without alcohol, making it a great option for any gathering.
The use of fresh, local, and organic strawberries adds a vibrant sweetness to the drink that is hard to resist. Garnished with mint, strawberries, and lime, the Strawberry Mojito is both visually appealing and delicious. If you're looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Strawberry Mojito is definitely worth a taste.
28. Peaches and Cream Martini
The Peaches and Cream Martini is a must-try Southern Summer Cocktail. This cocktail is a perfect blend of fresh peaches, superfine sugar, cream, and peach brandy. The drink is blended to perfection and served chilled. The smooth and creamy texture of the cocktail combined with the sweetness of the peaches makes it a perfect summer treat.
With its refreshing taste and fruity aroma, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that screams summer, the Peaches and Cream Martini is the way to go!
29. Frozen Peach Bellinis
Looking for a refreshing cocktail to beat the summer heat? Look no further than the Frozen Peach Bellini! Made with a blend of fresh and frozen peaches, champagne, vodka, and a touch of lime juice, this cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a tasty way to cool down, the Frozen Peach Bellini is sure to impress. So grab your blender and get ready to sip on this delicious Southern summer cocktail!
30. Pina Colada
The Pina Colada is a classic frozen cocktail that is perfect for a hot Southern summer day. Made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream or milk, this drink is a tropical delight that transports you to a beach paradise. The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a popular choice for those who love fruity cocktails.
The best part? This recipe offers a low-fat version by substituting coconut cream with coconut milk, making it guilt-free and perfect for those who are watching their waistline. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to beat the heat, the Pina Colada is definitely worth trying.
31. Southern Sweet Tea
One of the most refreshing drinks to enjoy during a hot Southern summer is the classic Southern Sweet Tea. This beloved beverage is a staple at family gatherings and is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including tea bags, sugar, and water, this sweet tea is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to quench your thirst.
While there are many variations of this recipe, the key to a great Southern Sweet Tea is finding the right balance of sweetness and tea flavor. Whether you prefer Lipton or Luzianne tea bags, this classic cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to beat the heat this summer.
