IPAs are one of the most popular beer styles among craft beer enthusiasts. Known for their hoppy flavor and bitterness, IPAs have become a staple in bars and breweries around the world.
But did you know that IPAs can also be used as a key ingredient in cocktails? That's right, these bitter and aromatic beers can add a unique twist to classic cocktail recipes.
As a bartender, I have experimented with numerous IPA cocktail recipes, each with its own distinct flavor profile. From fruity and refreshing to bold and boozy, there is an IPA cocktail for every taste preference.
Whether you're a beer lover looking to switch up your drinking routine or a cocktail connoisseur seeking a new challenge, these IPA cocktail recipes are sure to impress.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite IPA cocktail recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a quiet night in, or simply looking to try something new, these IPA cocktails are sure to elevate your drinking experience. So grab your shaker, some ice, and your favorite IPA, and let's get mixing!
1. Stormy IPA Cocktail
The Stormy IPA Cocktail is a creative and imaginative craft beer cocktail that blends the flavors of a classic dark rum cocktail with America's favorite beer style, the India Pale Ale. The cocktail is refreshing and spicy with hints of fragrant bitterness and fresh lime tartness.
The choice of IPA is up to the individual, but a citrusy American hops IPA or a very bitter double IPA would work well. The cocktail is perfect for those who love craft beer and are looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail experience.
2. IPA Piña Colada
The IPA Piña Colada is a refreshing twist on the classic tropical cocktail. This craft beer version replaces the traditional rum with a hoppy India Pale Ale, which adds a zingy bitterness to the sweet pineapple and coconut flavors.
The use of fresh pineapple juice and reduced cream of coconut also helps to balance out the sweetness, making it a more enjoyable drink for those who find traditional Piña Coladas too sugary. Overall, the IPA Piña Colada is a unique and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
3. Mo & Mez
"Mo & Mez" is a unique and flavorful IPA cocktail that is perfect for those who want to transition from summer to fall flavors. This mezcal and beer cocktail is mixed with passion fruit syrup, giving it a tropical twist. The addition of Mosaic hops IPA adds a hoppy and smoky flavor to the drink, making it perfect for the end of summer.
The cocktail is garnished with a lemon wheel and can be served in a pint glass or opened beer can. The sweet and smoky profile of mezcal pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of passion fruit, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and flavorful IPA cocktail.
4. Cucumber Basil IPA Cooler
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer? Look no further than the Cucumber Basil IPA Cooler. This beer cocktail combines the crispness of an IPA with the coolness of cucumber and the herbaceousness of basil. The result is a perfectly balanced drink that is both refreshing and complex.
The use of citrusy hops in the IPA base complements the cucumber and basil flavors, making for a truly delicious and unique cocktail experience. Whether you're a beer lover looking to try something new or a cocktail enthusiast searching for a refreshing summer drink, the Cucumber Basil IPA Cooler is definitely worth a try.
5. Father's Day Whisk-Beer Sour
The "Father's Day Whisk-Beer Sour" is a unique and creative IPA cocktail that combines the classic Whisky Sour with a Canadian IPA beer reduction. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a bitter and hoppy taste with their drinks. The addition of fresh lemon and egg whites gives it a refreshing and smooth texture.
The inspiration behind this cocktail comes from the creator's love for The Simpsons and Duff Beer, making it a fun and nostalgic drink. It's a great option for Father's Day or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a personalized mixologist experience. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for IPA lovers who want to try something new and exciting.
6. IPA Mango Slushie
The IPA Mango Slushie is a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail that combines the bitterness of an IPA with the sweetness of fresh mango. This cocktail is perfect for craft beer lovers who want to try something new and exciting. The recipe requires only a few ingredients, including your favorite IPA, ripe mango, and ice.
The slushie can be made with any IPA, but those with tropical fruit aromas and flavors work best. The cocktail is best enjoyed by the poolside, making it perfect for hot summer days. Overall, the IPA Mango Slushie is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious craft beer cocktail.
7. Elvis Cocktail
The Elvis Cocktail is a refreshing and unique beer cocktail that combines the hoppy notes of an IPA with the tangy and floral flavors of grapefruit and gin. This cocktail is perfect for those who love beer and gin, as it provides the best of both worlds.
The citrusy and sweet notes of the grapefruit juice complement the bitterness of the IPA, while the gin adds a touch of floral and herbal flavors to the mix. It's a perfect cocktail for the end of summer, and it's sure to impress your guests at any gathering. If you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy your IPA, the Elvis Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Life's a Peach
"Life's a Peach" is a unique IPA cocktail that combines peach nectar, vodka, lime juice, and a touch of spice to create a refreshing and flavorful drink. The cocktail can be made with either a Kolsch or IPA beer, depending on your preference.
The drink is perfect for game day or brunch, and the subtle spiciness adds an interesting twist to the sweetness of the peach nectar. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made in bulk for entertaining. Overall, "Life's a Peach" is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting IPA cocktail recipe.
9. Pineapple Slushie With Juicy IPA
Looking for a refreshing and unique IPA cocktail? Look no further than the Pineapple Slushie with Juicy IPA. This cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the hoppy aromas of an IPA to create a one-of-a-kind frozen drink. The addition of lime juice adds a pleasant citrus acidity that brightens the flavor profile.
Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of IPA added to the mix. While this cocktail may not be overly sweet, it is sure to satisfy your craving for a tropical treat. Don't miss out on this delicious and refreshing IPA cocktail!
10. Summer Campari Cocktail
The Summer Campari Cocktail is a luscious and complex drink that combines the bitter notes of Campari with the sweetness of raspberry liqueur, lime juice, and honey syrup. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a slightly bitter and tart taste with a touch of sweetness.
What makes this cocktail unique is the addition of India Pale Ale, which adds a surprising twist to the overall taste. The Summer Campari Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique IPA cocktail.
