As the summer draws to a close, students prepare to head back to school. This time of year can be stressful for everyone, with new schedules, new classes, and new people to meet.
But it doesn't have to be all work and no play. Why not celebrate the start of a new school year with a refreshing and delicious drink?
Whether you're a student, teacher, or parent, there's no denying that Back to School season can be a bit overwhelming.
But with the right cocktail, you can take the edge off and enjoy the moment. From fruity and sweet to bold and spicy, there's a Back to School cocktail recipe for everyone.
So why not kick off the new school year with a fun and festive drink? Whether you're hosting a Back to School party or just want to unwind after a long day, a cocktail is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the moment.
So put on your favorite playlist, grab a few ingredients, and get ready to mix up something special.
1. Watermelon Mimosas
The perfect way to celebrate the kids going back to school is with a refreshing Watermelon Mimosa. This cocktail is made with cold-pressed watermelon juice and sparkling wine, making it a fruity and bubbly treat.
The garnish of fresh watermelon pieces soaked in sparkling wine adds an extra touch of sweetness. It's perfect for sipping while catching up on your favorite shows on Netflix. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and fruity drink.
2. The Zombie Cocktail
Looking for a cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise? Look no further than the Zombie Cocktail! This classic cocktail is a party in a glass, with a blend of fruit juices and three types of rum that create a deliciously strong and tropical flavor. The Zombie Cocktail was originally created by famed bartender Donn Beach in the 1930s, and has remained a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts ever since.
While the original recipe called for an impressive 3 ounces of rum per cocktail, this modern version is a bit lighter on the alcohol, making it the perfect choice for a Back to School party. So why not mix up a batch of Zombie Cocktails and let the good times roll?
3. Alabama Slammer
The Alabama Slammer is a classic cocktail that's perfect for kicking off the back to school season. This fruity and refreshing drink is a blend of Amaretto, Southern Comfort, Slow Gin, and Orange Juice, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
The bright red/orange color of the drink is a favorite way to toast the team at tailgate and football parties. It's a little fruity and a lot boozy, so be careful! The Alabama Slammer is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and easy cocktail that's sure to impress.
4. Vodka Sunrise
The Vodka Sunrise is a refreshing and colorful cocktail that is perfect for those who love fruity and sweet drinks. Made with Sangria flavored vodka, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine, this slushy cocktail is easy to make and perfect for warm days. The ice makes it slushy and perfect for sipping by the pool or at a backyard BBQ.
While the Sangria flavored vodka may be hard to find, there are plenty of substitutions that can be used to achieve a similar taste. Whether you're a fan of flavored vodkas or prefer a more traditional cocktail, the Vodka Sunrise is sure to be a hit at any Back to School party.
5. Texas Tea
Looking for a refreshing cocktail to enjoy during the Back to School season? Look no further than the Texas Tea! This fizzy cocktail is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day, with a lemony twist and a delicious mixture of liquor and cola. While it may not actually contain tea, the Texas Tea is a grown-up drink that is just as refreshing as iced tea.
With ingredients like gin, vodka, rum, and whiskey-bourbon, this cocktail is sure to pack a punch. Plus, it's easy to customize with substitutions like silver tequila or a sour mix. So why not try a Texas Tea for your next Back to School happy hour?
6. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is made with bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice, and garnished with cherries. It's easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends.
Legend has it that the drink was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill. Since then, it has become a fashionable drink that is always in style. The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves whiskey and classic cocktails.
7. Blueberry Linden Flower Whiskey Smash
The Blueberry Linden Flower Whiskey Smash is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for the Back to School season. This cocktail is made with fresh blueberries and a linden flower simple syrup, which gives it a unique and soothing flavor. The creator of this recipe was inspired by the healing properties of herbs, and this cocktail is a testament to that.
The combination of whiskey and blueberries creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a great drink for any occasion. Overall, the Blueberry Linden Flower Whiskey Smash is a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
8. Old-Fashioned
The Old-Fashioned is a classic cocktail that every whiskey lover should try. Made with whiskey, simple syrup, bitters, a cocktail cherry, and a piece of orange zest, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and strong. While bourbon is the most popular choice for the Old-Fashioned, other types of whiskey, rum, and tequila can be used to create a unique flavor profile.
The addition of bitters adds complexity to the cocktail, making it a well-rounded drink. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or a newcomer to the spirit, the Old-Fashioned is a must-try cocktail that will never go out of style.
9. Hurricane Cocktail
The Hurricane Cocktail is a classic tropical drink that originated in New Orleans during the Prohibition Era. It is a potent mix of white and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, grenadine, simple syrup, and lime juice. Served in a Hurricane glass with ice, this cocktail is garnished with orange and a maraschino cherry.
The Hurricane Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who love fruity and sweet drinks with a kick. It is a great way to transport yourself to a tropical paradise, even if you're stuck in the classroom. So, if you're looking for a Back to School Cocktail that will take you on a mini-vacation, the Hurricane Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
10. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Cosmopolitan Cocktail is an iconic drink that has been enjoyed for decades. It is made with vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a splash of cranberry juice. This cocktail is perfect for a ladies' night out or a book club gathering.
The high-quality vodka and orange liqueur used in this recipe make it a refined and sophisticated drink that is sure to impress. The chilled martini glass and lemon twist garnish add a touch of elegance to this already stunning cocktail. If you're looking for a drink that is both classic and trendy, the Cosmopolitan Cocktail is the perfect choice.
11. Mary Pickford Classic Rum Cocktail
The Mary Pickford Classic Rum Cocktail is a sweet and tropical drink that is perfect for the end of summer and the start of the school year. Made with a mix of white rum, freshly pressed pineapple juice, real grenadine, and maraschino liqueur, this cocktail is a classic that has stood the test of time.
Named after the Canadian-American silent film star, Mary Pickford, this cocktail is a nod to the glamorous era of Hollywood. The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes this drink incredibly refreshing and easy to drink. If you're looking for a cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise, the Mary Pickford Classic Rum Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
12. Hakuna Matata Cocktail
The "Hakuna Matata Cocktail" is a Lion King-inspired drink that is perfect for a family movie night or any occasion where you want to unwind and have zero worries. This cocktail is made with spiced rum, coconut rum, banana liqueur, and pineapple juice, and is topped with grenadine or maraschino cherry syrup for an ombre sunset effect.
The combination of the different liquors creates a depth and warmth to the drink, while the pineapple juice adds a refreshing touch. This cocktail is definitely on the stronger side, so it's perfect for adults who want to enjoy a delicious and unique drink. So, if you're looking for a fun and flavorful cocktail to try, the "Hakuna Matata Cocktail" is definitely worth a shot!
13. Classic Daiquiri Cocktail
The Classic Daiquiri Cocktail is a simple yet elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion, including Back to School celebrations. Made with only three ingredients – rum, lime juice, and simple syrup – this cocktail is smooth and refreshing. Unlike the fruit daiquiris that are often associated with this drink, the Classic Daiquiri allows you to taste the rum more prominently.
It's a great option for those who want to enjoy a purer taste. This cocktail is easy to make and can be found in most restaurants. It's no wonder that it was one of the top five most popular cocktails in 2016. If you're looking for a delicious and classic cocktail to enjoy, the Classic Daiquiri is definitely worth a try.
14. Cranberry Champagne Cocktail
The Cranberry Champagne Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or any other festive occasion. The combination of fresh cranberry syrup, lemon, and gin mixed with champagne creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The sugar-coated cranberries add an extra touch of elegance to this already sophisticated cocktail. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good champagne cocktail.
15. Kirsch Rose Cocktail
The Kirsch Rose Cocktail is the perfect drink for those looking for a sweet and aromatic cocktail with a hint of bitterness. The combination of kirsch, dry vermouth, and grenadine creates a balanced flavor profile with notes of cherry, citrus, and floral. This vintage-style cocktail is perfect for classy parties and small get-togethers, and it's sure to transport you to the romantic streets of Paris.
The deep red color and effervescence give the drink a rose-like appearance, adding to its charm. Don't forget to garnish with a fresh cherry or Luxardo maraschino cherry for the perfect finishing touch. If you're looking for a unique and sophisticated cocktail to impress your guests, the Kirsch Rose Cocktail is a must-try.
16. Negroni Cocktail
The Negroni Cocktail is a refreshing Italian drink that is perfect for a Back to School celebration. This ruby red cocktail is made with equal parts of gin, Campari, and vermouth rosso, and is served over ice with a slice or twist of orange.
It's a simple yet elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion. The Negroni Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian cocktails. With its beautiful color and refreshing taste, it's sure to be a hit at any Back to School party.
17. Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 1870s, and it's still a popular choice today. Made with fresh ingredients and just the right amount of sweetness, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or a chilly autumn evening.
Whether you're a whiskey lover or not, the Whiskey Sour is a drink that's sure to please. So why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about? With its rich history and timeless flavor, the Whiskey Sour is a cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.
18. Spiced Maple Manhattan
The Spiced Maple Manhattan is a perfect cocktail for those looking for a twist on the classic Manhattan. The infusion of maple syrup adds a sweet and mellow flavor to the spicy rye, creating a smooth and sippable cocktail. The addition of vanilla, cinnamon, and star anise syrup gives a subtle hint of warm spice, making it a perfect drink for the fall season.
Despite the generous pour of syrup, the cocktail is not cloying at all, and the rye still has enough bite to keep it grownup and complex. Overall, the Spiced Maple Manhattan is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique cocktail.
19. Appletini
The Appletini is a classic cocktail that has been a favorite for many years. This cocktail is perfect for Back to School season with its refreshing green apple flavor. The Appletini is made with apple juice, lemon juice, and granny smith green apple syrup, and served in a martini glass.
It's a perfect drink for those who want to enjoy the taste of a cocktail without the alcohol. The Appletini is easy to make and can be made in advance for a crowd. It's a great way to welcome the new school year with a refreshing and delicious drink. So, if you're looking for a fun and tasty cocktail to add to your Back to School party, be sure to try the Appletini.
20. Pomegranate Lime Fizz
The Pomegranate Lime Fizz is a perfect cocktail to welcome friends and family back to school. This gin-based cocktail is a festive twist on the classic Fizz cocktail, with a bright and refreshing taste.
The homemade grenadine, simple syrup, fresh lime juice, and gin come together to create a deliciously simple cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Even if you're not a gin fan, this cocktail is worth a try with its smooth, floral taste. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for an easy and tasty drink to celebrate the back-to-school season.
21. Pear Prosecco Cocktail
The Pear Prosecco Cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a pear puree or simple syrup, prosecco, and a splash of vodka, this cocktail is bursting with flavor and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
The subtle sweetness of the pear is perfectly balanced by the crispness of the prosecco, making for a drink that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on a warm summer day, the Pear Prosecco Cocktail is the perfect choice. So why not give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious it can be?
22. Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a classic cocktail with a smoky twist. Made with smoked, muddled cherries and a smoked cherry simple syrup, this cocktail has a rich, musky flavor that pairs perfectly with the warmth of the whiskey.
It's perfect for sipping on a cool fall evening and is sure to impress even the most seasoned cocktail connoisseur.
23. NOgroni
Looking for a non-alcoholic cocktail that packs a punch? Look no further than the NOgroni! This Seedlip-based drink is a twist on the classic Negroni, with complex and bitter flavors that will leave you wanting more. Made with Seedlip Spice, Æcorn Bitter, and Æcorn Aromatic, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any Back to School celebration.
Whether you're a teetotaler or just looking for a break from the booze, the NOgroni is a must-try cocktail that will leave you wanting more. So why not mix one up today and see for yourself why this drink is quickly becoming a fan favorite?
24. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri is a refreshing and fruity cocktail made with fresh strawberries, white rum, lime, and sugar syrup. It's blended to a slushy consistency without ice, ensuring that the flavor is not diluted.
The cocktail is dangerously easy to drink, with a natural sweetness from the strawberries and a kick from the rum. It's perfect for Back to School season, especially when strawberries are in season.
