Summer is here, and with it comes the need to quench our thirst with the perfect drink. As a bartender, I have noticed that citrus-based cocktails are becoming increasingly popular during the summer months.
The bright and refreshing flavors of citrus fruits like lemon, lime, grapefruit, and orange are perfect for hot summer days.
Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content and their ability to reduce stress levels. They are also a great source of hydration, making them a perfect ingredient for summer drinks.
Citrus fruits add a zingy, tangy flavor to cocktails, making them the perfect thirst-quenching beverage.
In this post, I will be sharing some of the best Summer Citrus Cocktail recipes that I have come across during my time as a bartender. These recipes are perfect for those looking to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful drink during the hot summer months.
Whether you are looking for a classic cocktail or something with a unique twist, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, sit back, relax, and let's explore the world of Summer Citrus Cocktails!
1. Summer Citrus Cocktail
The Summer Citrus Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for cooling down during the hot summer months. Made with vodka, freshly squeezed summer citrus, and sparkling water, this cocktail is a great way to enjoy a delicious drink without the guilt of consuming too many calories.
The combination of the citrus and sparkling water creates a tangy and bubbly flavor that is sure to please anyone looking for a refreshing summer drink. Whether you're looking to enjoy a cocktail at a summer party or simply want to relax on your porch, the Summer Citrus Cocktail is a great choice. So, why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and refreshing it can be?
2. Pompelmo Sour
The Pompelmo Sour is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that is perfect for summer. This drink features grapefruit oleo saccharum, a sweet and flavorful syrup made from citrus peels and sugar. The syrup is combined with Spanish gin, lemon juice, and a touch of Cocchi Americano, an Italian aperitif wine.
The cocktail is finished with a fluffy egg white foam and a garnish of grapefruit peel. The Pompelmo Sour is a well-balanced drink with a tart and sweet flavor profile that is sure to impress. It's a must-try for anyone who loves citrus cocktails and wants to add a new twist to their summer drink repertoire.
3. Summer Citrus Wine Cocktail
The Summer Citrus Wine Cocktail is a refreshing and perfect way to cool down during the hot summer days. Made with Cabernet Sauvignon, this cocktail surprises with its unique blend of dry and rich wine mixed with the refreshing taste of citrus from the orange juice.
It's not super sweet, but it's definitely a summer favorite that you can enjoy with friends and family. This cocktail is perfect for red wine lovers who are looking for a cool and refreshing drink during the summer season. If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to enjoy your wine this summer, the Summer Citrus Wine Cocktail is a must-try!
4. Summer Citrus White Sangria
One of the best Summer Citrus Cocktail recipes out there is the Summer Citrus White Sangria. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. Made with fresh citrus fruits, Pinot Grigio, and white rum, this sangria is a showstopper. The combination of citrus fruits gives it a burst of flavor that screams summer.
The white rum adds a kick to the drink, so it's important to drink responsibly. After mixing all the ingredients, chill the cocktail for a few minutes to allow the fruit to infuse into the Sangria. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Summer Citrus White Sangria is a must-try.
5. The Professor
"The Professor" is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with tequila, Grand Marnier, lime juice, and grapefruit soda, this drink is sweet enough without added sugar. The cocktail is garnished with slices of orange and lime, making it a truly festive drink.
This cocktail is a great alternative to the classic Margarita and Paloma, and is perfect for sipping by the pool or at a summer gathering. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try this summer, "The Professor" is definitely worth a try.
6. Amaretto Summer Citrus Berry Splash Cocktail
Looking for a light and refreshing summer cocktail bursting with fresh fruit flavor? Look no further than the Amaretto Summer Citrus Berry Splash Cocktail! This cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the tartness of lemon and orange juice, all brightened by the addition of amaretto.
The result is a perfectly balanced drink that goes down smooth, making it the perfect addition to any summer gathering. So why not give this delicious cocktail a try and see for yourself why it's one of the best summer citrus cocktails out there?
7. Tangerine Mojito
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail to beat the summer heat? Look no further than the Tangerine Mojito. This citrusy twist on the classic mojito is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
The combination of fresh mandarin or tangerine, lime, rum, mint, sugar, and bubbly creates a delightful and refreshing drink that is perfect for any summer occasion. The history of the mojito may be a little muddled, but there's no mistaking the delicious taste of this cocktail. So, if you're looking for a fun and tasty way to cool off this summer, give the Tangerine Mojito a try!
8. Blood Orange Thyme Paloma Cocktail
The Blood Orange Thyme Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful citrus cocktail that is perfect for the summer season. This cocktail is made with fresh thyme, blood oranges, and a thyme syrup that adds a unique herbal twist to the classic Paloma cocktail.
The use of fresh herbs in this cocktail gives it a fresh and earthy taste that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. The addition of blood oranges adds a sweet and tangy flavor that balances out the herbal notes of the thyme. If you're looking for a citrus cocktail that is both refreshing and flavorful, the Blood Orange Thyme Paloma Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
9. Simple Citrus-Basil Margarita
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your summer parties? Look no further than the Simple Citrus-Basil Margarita. This spin on the classic margarita is made with fresh orange juice, lime and lemon juice, tequila, and triple sec, and is garnished with a salt rim and basil leaves.
The addition of basil adds a unique and delicious twist to the traditional margarita. Plus, the use of fresh orange juice makes this cocktail a healthier option than many other sugary drinks. If you're looking for a light and refreshing drink to sip on during those hot summer days, the Simple Citrus-Basil Margarita is definitely worth a try.
10. Immunity Boosting Citrus Gin Punch Cocktail
The Immunity Boosting Citrus Gin Punch Cocktail is a refreshing and healthy drink that's perfect for summer. Packed with a blend of delicious citrus fruits, it's a tasty way to give your immune system a boost.
The combination of pineapple and guava gives it a unique and tropical flavor, and it's easy to make in a big batch for parties. Plus, it's just as delicious with vodka or as a non-alcoholic mocktail.
11. Citrus-Ginger Spritzer
The Citrus-Ginger Spritzer is a refreshing and bright cocktail that's perfect for sipping on hot summer days. Made with a combination of citrus and fruit flavors, ginger beer, and a few dashes of ANGOSTURA orange bitters, this spirit-free spritzer offers a complex blend of sweet and tangy flavors that are sure to please your taste buds.
The ANGOSTURA orange bitters add a tropical spice to the drink, balancing out the flavors and giving it a unique twist. Garnished with an orange slice and a sprig of fresh mint, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing. If you're looking for a low-proof cocktail that's easy to make and perfect for enjoying all day long, the Citrus-Ginger Spritzer is definitely worth a try.
12. Grapefruit Rum Cocktail
The Grapefruit Rum Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink. This cocktail is bursting with the flavors of real grapefruit juice, fresh mint leaves, and club soda, making it a perfect choice for a hot summer day. The beautiful pinkish-orange color of the drink is sure to impress your guests, and the juicy grapefruit slices and crushed ice add an extra touch of elegance to the presentation.
With just seven ingredients, this cocktail is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a party or a relaxing evening on your front porch. If you're looking for a fun and delicious citrus drink to cool you down this summer, the Grapefruit Rum Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
13. Pomelo Gin Fizz
The Pomelo Gin Fizz is a refreshing and bubbly cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. This citrusy cocktail skips the egg whites and instead uses soda water to achieve the fizzy texture. The pomelo, a slightly sweeter cousin of the grapefruit, adds a sweet and sour punch to the drink.
The use of quality gin, such as Hendrick's, allows the flavor to shine through. This cocktail is a great alternative to a classic gin and tonic and is sure to impress your guests at your next summer gathering.
14. Orange Blossom Martini
The Orange Blossom Martini is a perfect summer citrus cocktail that combines the tangy flavor of citrus with a sweet aftertaste. It's a refreshing drink that's perfect for dinner time or any occasion that calls for a sophisticated cocktail.
This martini is more outspoken than other floral cocktails, making it a favorite among those who love citrus flavor. It's a go-to cocktail recipe that you'll want to make at home. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious summer cocktail, the Orange Blossom Martini is definitely worth a try.
15. Lemon Berry Gin and Tonic
The Lemon Berry Gin and Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic Gin and Tonic cocktail. This summertime drink is perfect for those looking for a light and tart cocktail with a beautiful berry color.
The combination of gin, tonic, lemon, and berries creates a unique flavor that will transport you to a relaxing vacation paradise. If you're a fan of Gin and Tonic, this cocktail is a must-try. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the refreshing taste of Lemon Berry Gin and Tonic.
16. Tangerine Thyme Margaritas
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to enjoy this summer, look no further than the Tangerine Thyme Margarita. This cocktail combines the tangy sweetness of tangerine juice with the herbal notes of thyme syrup, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful drink.
The use of fresh tangerine juice adds a bright and summery touch, while the thyme syrup adds a warm and comforting element. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying at a backyard barbecue with friends. If you're a fan of margaritas and looking to try something new, give the Tangerine Thyme Margarita a try.
17. Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that's perfect for summer. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, sparkling water, lime juice, and sweetener, this drink is a fresher alternative to the classic margarita. The rim of the glass is rubbed with a grapefruit wedge and dipped in salt, adding an extra layer of flavor.
The sweet and sour combination of grapefruit and lime juice is perfectly balanced with the tequila, making this cocktail a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, the Paloma is sure to be a hit. So why not mix up a batch and enjoy the taste of summer in a glass?
18. Rosemary Tangerine Cooler
The Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is a refreshing and unique summer citrus cocktail that combines the sweetness of caramelized tangerines with the fragrant essence of rosemary. The rum-based drink is easy to make and has a strong citrus taste that is balanced by the light caramel flavor.
The cocktail is garnished with fresh rosemary, which adds a lovely touch to the presentation. Overall, the Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is a must-try cocktail for those who are looking for something different and delicious this summer.
19. Strawberry Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
The Strawberry Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and tangy drink that will take your taste buds on a journey! This citrusy cocktail is perfect for summer sipping and is made with vodka, grapefruit juice, and a special strawberry syrup that adds a sweet twist to the drink.
The cocktail is garnished with a lemon slice or fresh strawberries and is topped with soda water for a fizzy finish. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a sweet and tangy taste with a hint of bitterness. It's a must-try for anyone who wants to add a new twist to their summer citrus cocktail collection!
20. Champagne Punch
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your summer parties? Look no further than the Champagne Punch! This citrusy twist on a classic champagne punch is the perfect signature cocktail for any occasion. Made with fresh fruit juices and a dry or Brut champagne, this punch strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
And with the option to garnish with edible petals or sliced citrus fruits, it's as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you're hosting a baby shower, bridal shower, bachelorette party, or just a summer get-together, the Champagne Punch is sure to impress your guests. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
21. Peruvian Pisco Sour
The Peruvian Pisco Sour is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that has made a strong comeback since its debut in 1920. It is the national cocktail of both Chile and Peru, and for good reason. Made with Pisco, a brandy made in Peru and Chile, key lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
The addition of egg whites creates a frothy top, making it a visually appealing drink as well. If you're looking for a sophisticated and exotic summer cocktail, the Peruvian Pisco Sour is definitely worth a try.
22. The Bootleg Cocktail
The Bootleg Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Originating from Minnesota's Twin Cities during the prohibition period, this cocktail was meant to mask the taste of alcohol.
The lemon-lime combination, along with fresh mint, creates a burst of freshness that is hard to resist. While it may be difficult to taste the alcohol, this drink is sure to pack a punch. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try this summer, The Bootleg Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
23. Passionfruit Martini
The Passionfruit Martini is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with fresh passion fruit juice, this cocktail has a tropical flavor that will transport you to a beach vacation. It is an elegant and sophisticated drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
The cocktail can be made with or without passionfruit liqueur, but it is recommended to include it for an extra punch of flavor. The sweetness of the cocktail can be adjusted based on the sourness of the passionfruit juice. Overall, the Passionfruit Martini is a must-try for anyone who loves passion fruit and wants to enjoy a delicious summer cocktail.
24. Cantarito
The Cantarito is a classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, fresh grapefruit, orange, and lime, topped off with bubbly grapefruit soda.
It's tart, sweet, and oh-so-refreshing with a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor than other citrus cocktails due to the addition of orange juice. Traditionally served in clay cups, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic taste of Mexico.
25. Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
The Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink that will surely impress your guests. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a fancy-looking drink without the fuss. The combination of grapefruit and lemon juice creates a citrusy and tangy flavor that is perfectly balanced with the coconut sugar rim.
The bitterness of the grapefruit is also toned down by the sweetness of the sugar. This cocktail can be made with vodka, tequila, or rum, making it versatile and perfect for any occasion. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail, the Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
26. Sparkling Watermelon Lychee Cocktail
The Sparkling Watermelon Lychee Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail features a hard watermelon seltzer with a dash of lychee juice, garnished with a thin slice of watermelon, lychees, and a sprig of mint.
The combination of watermelon and lychee creates a sweet and fruity flavor that is sure to please any palate. The cocktail is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with the sliced watermelon garnish adding a pop of color to the drink. Overall, the Sparkling Watermelon Lychee Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty summer drink.
27. Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail
The Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for sipping by the pool during the summer. This cocktail is made with fresh grapefruit juice, raspberry jam, and sparkling grapefruit soda, which gives it a sparkling and fruity taste. It is also one of the lower-calorie cocktails, making it a great option for anyone who is watching their calorie intake.
The health benefits of grapefruit in this cocktail are also worth mentioning, as grapefruit has been shown to aid in weight loss. Overall, the Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make drink that is sure to impress your guests at any summer gathering.
28. Skinny Paloma
The "Skinny Paloma" is a refreshing and healthy alternative to the classic margarita. Made with fresh grapefruit juice, tequila, and a splash of lime, this cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. What makes this drink so special is that it contains no added sugar, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The grapefruit juice provides a natural sweetness that perfectly balances out the tequila.
For those who love bubbles, adding sparkling water gives the drink a nice effervescence. The "Skinny Paloma" is a great option for those who want to enjoy a delicious cocktail without the added calories and sugar. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and healthy drink to sip on this summer, give the "Skinny Paloma" a try!
29. Italian Paloma
The Italian Paloma is a refreshing and zingy tequila-based cocktail with a twist. This cocktail is made with a mixture of citrus juices and Campari, giving it a unique Italian flare. The addition of Campari works wonderfully with the other bitter flavors in this drink, and the swap of grapefruit soda for orange soda gives it a beautiful pink color.
This cocktail comes in under 200 calories, making it a perfect choice for anyone counting calories. The Italian Paloma is perfect for spring and summer, garden parties, pool parties, and birthday parties. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail with a twist, the Italian Paloma is a must-try!
