As the sun sets and the day comes to a close, many people find themselves winding down and relaxing with a drink in hand.
Whether it's to celebrate the end of a long day or to simply enjoy the company of friends, an evening cocktail is the perfect way to unwind.
But with so many different ingredients and recipes out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That's why we've put together a list of some of the best evening cocktail recipes that are guaranteed to impress.
From classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Martini to more modern creations like the Espresso Martini and the Aperol Spritz, there's something for everyone on this list.
Whether you prefer your cocktails sweet, sour, or strong, you're sure to find a recipe that suits your taste.
So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through some of the best evening cocktail recipes out there.
Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a complete novice, we're confident that you'll find something here that you'll love. So go ahead and mix up a drink – you deserve it!
1. Raspberry Vodka Mojito
The Raspberry Vodka Mojito is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for a summer evening. Made with Pinnacle Vodka, fresh raspberries, mint, and lime, this cocktail is bursting with flavor and color. The sweetness of the raspberries and the tanginess of the lime are balanced by the freshness of the mint, making this cocktail a well-rounded and delicious drink.
Pinnacle Vodka is known for its quality and affordability, and with over 40 fun flavors, the possibilities for creating unique cocktails are endless. If you're looking for a cocktail that is easy to make and will impress your guests, the Raspberry Vodka Mojito is definitely worth trying.
2. Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to enjoy during the evening? Look no further than the Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojito. This cocktail combines the sweetness of blueberries with the refreshing taste of cucumber and lemon, all mixed with a healthy dose of gin and a splash of soda water. The addition of mint and edible flowers adds a touch of elegance to this already beautiful drink.
What sets this cocktail apart is the use of a blueberry simple syrup made with honey instead of traditional sugar, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or impressing guests at a dinner party, the Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojito is a must-try cocktail for any gin lover.
3. Between the Sheets Cocktail
The Between the Sheets Cocktail is a fun and saucy addition to any dinner party. This adaptation of the classic Sidecar cocktail originated from Harry's New York Bar in Paris and is made with cognac, rum, Triple Sec, and fresh lemon juice.
This cocktail is not for the faint of heart as it is quite strong, but perfect for delicate sipping. The key to making this cocktail stand out is to use high-quality ingredients, such as upper-range rum and Triple Sec. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, give the Between the Sheets Cocktail a try.
4. Dark and Stormy Cocktail
The Dark and Stormy Cocktail is a classic cocktail from Bermuda made with Goslings Black Seal Rum and ginger beer. It has a refreshing, fizzy, and slightly sweet and spicy taste. The addition of a spiced syrup enhances the flavors of both the rum and the ginger beer.
When combined, the result is a three-layered cocktail that looks impressive and tastes even better. Its layers of flavor and fascinating history make it a great conversation starter at any party.
5. Greyhound Cocktail
The Greyhound Cocktail is a classic drink that is perfect for an evening out. This cocktail is simple to make, yet it packs a punch with its refreshing taste. Made with grapefruit juice and vodka (or gin), this drink is perfect for those who love a sweet and tangy drink. The key to making this cocktail is to use a grapefruit juice that is not too tart, as it can overpower the drink.
The Greyhound Cocktail can be served in a traditional martini glass or in a tall glass with ice. Either way, it is a perfect drink to enjoy with friends or to sip on while relaxing at home. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, then the Greyhound Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
6. Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail
The Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and set the mood for a romantic evening. This cocktail is a perfect choice for those who love fruity drinks with a hint of alcohol. The combination of chardonnay, apple raspberry cider, and vodka creates a unique taste that is sure to impress your guests.
The cocktail is garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary that adds a touch of freshness to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. So, if you want to impress your guests with a delicious and refreshing cocktail, the Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail is a must-try.
7. Brandy Old Fashioned
The Brandy Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that every home bartender should know how to make. This easy-to-make cocktail only requires five ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening in. The demerara syrup adds a unique twist to the traditional sugar cube, giving the drink a rich and complex flavor.
The cherry flavor is a standout feature of this cocktail, making it a perfect choice for those who love brandy. This cocktail is a great way to elevate your home bartending skills and impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy on a chilly evening, the Brandy Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
8. Skinny Malibu Blackberry Coconut Mojito
The Skinny Malibu Blackberry Coconut Mojito is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for a summer evening. The addition of blackberries gives the classic Mojito a unique twist and balances the sweetness of the coconut flavored rum. The cocktail is easy to drink and can be prepared in a large batch for a party or enjoyed individually.
The recipe is a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress guests with its beautiful color and delicious taste. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer, the Skinny Malibu Blackberry Coconut Mojito is definitely worth a try.
9. Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a classic winter cocktail that has become a popular choice for Christmas celebrations. This creamy and warming drink is made with brandy (or cognac), crème de cacao, and cream, making it the perfect after-dinner drink or dessert pairing.
The origins of the name are disputed, but what's not up for debate is the delicious taste and smooth finish of this cocktail. Whether you prefer it straight up or on the rocks, the Brandy Alexander is a must-try for anyone looking for a cozy and comforting drink during the colder months. So why not give it a try and see why it's become a timeless classic?
10. Grapefruit Basil Vodka Smash
The Grapefruit Basil Vodka Smash is a refreshing and bright cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer evening. This cocktail is made with red grapefruit, fresh basil, and a fizzy grapefruit soda. The combination of basil and grapefruit creates a beautiful aroma and flavor that is sure to awaken your senses.
The addition of vodka gives the cocktail a nice kick, making it a perfect drink for adults who enjoy a little bit of alcohol in their drinks. Overall, the Grapefruit Basil Vodka Smash is a delicious and unique cocktail that is definitely worth trying.
11. Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic warm cocktail that is perfect for a cold winter evening. This rich and buttery drink is spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and sweetened with honey. The addition of rum gives it a warm and comforting kick. What makes this cocktail unique is that a batter is made beforehand, which creates a creamy and thick mixture that serves as the base of the drink.
Hot Buttered Rum can be served in mugs and garnished with whipped cream or cinnamon sticks for an extra special touch. This cocktail is perfect for cozying up by the fire or serving at holiday parties. If you're looking for a warm and comforting drink to enjoy during the winter months, Hot Buttered Rum is a must-try.
12. Stinger
The Stinger is a classic cocktail that has been around since the early 1900s. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink made with only two ingredients: creme de menthe and brandy. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a chilly autumn evening or as an after-dinner drink. The mint flavor in this drink is not overpowering and blends beautifully with the brandy.
The Stinger is best enjoyed by itself, but it can also be paired with a cigar for a truly luxurious experience. This cocktail is not for everyone, but if you enjoy creme de menthe, you will definitely love the Stinger. If you're looking for a unique and classic cocktail to try, the Stinger is definitely worth a shot.
13. Cranberry Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for the holiday season. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned, with the addition of cranberry simple syrup, which gives it a unique flavor. The recipe includes quality bourbon and a splash of bitters, making it a perfect balance of sweet and bitter.
The cocktail is not only delicious but also beautiful, with the bright red color of the cranberry simple syrup. It is a perfect signature cocktail for any holiday gathering. The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone looking for a festive and delicious cocktail this holiday season.
14. Watermelon Rosé Granita
The Watermelon Rosé Granita is a frosty and fruity cocktail made with only four ingredients. The sweet watermelon and tangy lime juice pair perfectly with a dry rosé wine, creating a refreshing and balanced flavor.
The granita texture adds a fun and unique twist to this classic cocktail. Perfect for hot summer evenings, this pretty pink frosé is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
15. Homemade Mulled Wine
Looking for a warm and comforting cocktail to enjoy on a chilly winter evening? Look no further than Homemade Mulled Wine. This classic drink is a perfect blend of fruity red wine, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and citrus, with a touch of brandy for added warmth. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water and create a cozy atmosphere in your home.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a relaxing evening drink, Homemade Mulled Wine is a great choice. Plus, it's easy to make and can be kept warm in a slow cooker or crockpot for hours. So, grab a mug, curl up by the fire, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional winter drink.
16. Clover Club Cocktail
The Clover Club Cocktail is a classic pre-Prohibition era drink that has stood the test of time. This gin-based cocktail is tart, subtly sweet, and has a delicious foamy head from the egg white. The recipe calls for raspberry syrup, but a cheater method using muddled raspberries and simple syrup can be used to save time.
To ensure the best result in terms of a light and airy foam, dry shaking the ingredients before adding ice and shaking again is recommended. The Clover Club Cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers and those looking for a classic cocktail with a twist.
17. Raspberry Frosé
The Raspberry Frosé is a refreshing and delicious wine slush cocktail that is perfect for a summer evening. Made with raspberries, peach, and rose wine, this cocktail is a bright pink celebration of the season. The sweetness of the cocktail varies based on the wine and fruit used, but it is always delicious.
This cocktail can be made in a blender or an ice cream machine, and both methods deliver equally delicious results. If you're looking for a fun and fruity cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer evening, the Raspberry Frosé is definitely worth a try.
18. Frozen Rosé
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer evening? Look no further than the Frozen Rosé. This slushy cocktail is made with just three ingredients and can be whipped up in a high-speed blender in just five minutes.
The result is a frosty, fruity drink that's perfect for sipping while lounging by the pool or relaxing on the porch. With its elegant presentation and delicious taste, the Frozen Rosé is sure to impress your guests at any gathering. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this cocktail is a hit with taste testers everywhere?
19. Hot Toddy
Hot Toddy is a classic cocktail that is perfect for a cold winter night. This cocktail is a great remedy for a sore throat or cold. The perfect blend of fresh lemon, spices, and whiskey make this cocktail a must-try for anyone looking for a little libation to take the edge off and relax on a cool night.
The combination of hot water, whiskey, honey, and spices make this cocktail a delicious and soothing drink that will warm you up from the inside out. If you're looking for a comforting and classic cocktail to enjoy on a chilly evening, then Hot Toddy is definitely worth trying.
20. Blueberry Gin and Tonic
The Blueberry Gin and Tonic is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic gin and tonic. Made with Tanqueray gin, fresh blueberries, mint, lime, and tonic, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. The blueberries and mint give the drink a beautiful soft purple color, making it a visually appealing option for a party or a night in.
The addition of lime helps to blend the flavors together while allowing them to stand on their own. This cocktail is versatile and can be made sweeter with the addition of raspberry liqueur or fresh raspberry juice. Overall, the Blueberry Gin and Tonic is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
21. Lilac Bee's Knees Cocktail
The Lilac Bee's Knees Cocktail is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic Bee's Knees cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for something floral and refreshing to sip on during a cool spring evening or at a Mother's Day brunch or bridal shower.
The cocktail features gin infused with fresh lilacs, lilac syrup, and is garnished with lilac blossoms. The floral essence of the lilacs adds a lovely touch to the cocktail, making it a refreshing and delightful drink to enjoy. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both unique and delicious, the Lilac Bee's Knees Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
22. Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that perfectly balances tart lemon juice and sweet maple syrup or simple syrup with whiskey. It's easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great option for those who want to impress their guests without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The drink is then garnished with a strip of orange peel and a maraschino cherry, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. It's a must-try for anyone who loves whiskey and wants to enjoy a delicious cocktail.
23. Manhattan and Old Fashioned
The Manhattan and Old Fashioned are two iconic whiskey cocktails in the American cocktail tradition. The Manhattan is a sophisticated cocktail served in a stemmed glass with Luxardo cherries, while the Old Fashioned is a classic drink served in a low ball glass with orange peel.
The Manhattan is traditionally made with rye whiskey, while the Old Fashioned is made with bourbon. These cocktails are perfect for those who appreciate the rich history of American cocktails and want to experience a taste of the past.
24. Poinsettia Cocktail
The Poinsettia Cocktail is a classic cranberry Christmas Champagne cocktail that is perfect for holiday parties. It's a refreshing and bubbly drink with a light flavor of cranberry and a hint of rosemary, making it an elegant and festive choice for any evening occasion.
With only three ingredients, it's easy to make and garnish with cranberry and a sprig of rosemary. The vibrant green and red colors make it a beautiful addition to any holiday gathering. If you love Champagne cocktails, then the Poinsettia Cocktail is a must-try recipe.
25. Charred Lemon, Rosemary and Coriander Gin & Tonic
"Charred Lemon, Rosemary and Coriander Gin & Tonic" is a unique and delicious cocktail that is perfect for any evening occasion. The combination of charred lemon, fresh rosemary, and coriander seeds adds a savory and warming flavor to the classic gin and tonic.
The choice of gin and tonic water is up to the individual, but Tanqueray London Dry and local small batch gins are great options. The flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a beautiful start to any evening or afternoon. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting twist on a classic drink.
26. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around since the late 1800s. It's made with bourbon, bitters, sugar, and a twist of orange or lemon peel. This cocktail is simple yet sophisticated and has stood the test of time. The key to a great Old Fashioned is using quality ingredients and proper technique.
The orange peel is not just a garnish but a flavor element that adds a subtle aroma and taste to the drink. If you're a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is a must-try. The Old Fashioned is a perfect choice for a relaxing evening, whether you're sipping it at home or at a bar.
27. Vodka Pear Lavender Lemonade Cocktail
The Vodka Pear Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that is perfect for a warm summer evening. The combination of sweet pears, floral lavender, tart lemons, and a splash of vodka creates a well-balanced and delicious cocktail. The pinch of salt in the recipe balances out the flavors and makes the sugar seem sweeter.
This cocktail is also a healthier option as the natural sweetness of the pears cuts down on the need for added sugar. The lavender can be added in various ways, such as steeping fresh culinary lavender or adding a lavender sprig for garnishing. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for those who love trying new and exciting flavor combinations.
