As a bartender, I've seen it all. From the classic Old Fashioned to the trendy Aperol Spritz, there's no shortage of cocktail recipes out there. But let's be real, not all cocktails are created equal. Sure, taste is important, but presentation is just as crucial. After all, who doesn't want a drink that looks as good as it tastes?
That's why I'm excited to share with you some of the coolest looking drink recipes I've come across. These drinks are not only delicious, but they're also visually stunning. From vibrant colors to creative garnishes, these cocktails are sure to impress your guests and elevate your bartending game.
But don't be intimidated by their appearance. These recipes are easy to make, and with a little practice, you'll be able to whip them up in no time. So, whether you're hosting a party or just want to impress your significant other, these cool looking cocktail recipes are sure to be a hit. So, let's get shakin'!
1. Ocean Water Cocktail
The Ocean Water Cocktail is a perfect summer drink that will take you to a tropical paradise with just one sip. The combination of coconut rum, pineapple juice, and blue curaçao creates a vibrant and refreshing drink that will make you feel like you're lounging on a beach chair by the ocean.
The sugar rimmed glass adds a fun and playful touch to the drink, making it perfect for a summer party or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. If you're looking for a cool looking cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise, the Ocean Water Cocktail is a must-try.
2. Mango Sunrise Piña Colada
Looking for a fun and fruity cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise? Look no further than the Mango Sunrise Piña Colada! This twist on the classic piña colada features a stunning layered effect thanks to the addition of mango juice and grenadine.
The coconut cream adds a creamy richness to the drink, while the garnishes of fresh fruit and a colorful ombre paper straw make it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Sip on this icy cold cocktail and imagine yourself lounging on a sunny beach with the sound of waves lapping at your feet. Trust us, you won't be disappointed!
3. The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher
If you're looking for a refreshing and light cocktail to sip on this Spring, look no further than "The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher". This cocktail is a perfect blend of herbal notes of rosemary and the tangy burst of grapefruit, mixed with soda.
It's a versatile drink that can be enjoyed during brunch or dinner time, and can even be made into a mocktail by leaving out the booze. The cocktail is perfect for Easter dinner or any other Springtime gathering. With its unique blend of flavors and beautiful presentation, "The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher" is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
4. The Mary Pickford Cocktail
The Mary Pickford Cocktail is a classic prohibition-era cocktail that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Named after the famous actress, Mary Pickford, this cocktail is flirty yet elegant and has a cool and refreshing taste. It is made with white rum, grenadine, pineapple juice, and maraschino liquor, which are shaken together and then served in a martini or coupe glass.
The proportions of the ingredients are perfectly balanced, but can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. This cocktail is a great choice for anyone looking for a unique and impressive drink to serve at their next party or event. So, if you want to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your next gathering, be sure to try The Mary Pickford Cocktail.
5. Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail
The Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail is a tropical twist on a classic Piña Colada. Made with Malibu Rum, coconut milk, and orange juice, this cocktail is perfect for those dreary winter days when you need a little taste of summer. The coconut flakes rimmed glass adds a touch of elegance to this already beautiful drink.
The smooth and creamy texture of the cocktail is reminiscent of a smoothie, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion. If you're looking for a way to escape the winter blues, the Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail is the perfect way to do it.
6. Elderflower Mojito
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to impress your guests, the Elderflower Mojito is a must-try. This cocktail combines the classic flavors of a traditional mojito with the subtle sweetness of elderflower liqueur, creating a floral and refreshing drink that is perfect for summer nights.
The addition of muddled mint and lime juice gives the cocktail a bright and zesty flavor, while the rum provides a subtle kick. The Elderflower Mojito is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with layers of green mint leaves and clear club soda. It's a perfect cocktail for a summer party or a relaxing evening on the patio. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to a tropical paradise.
7. Electric Lemonade
"Electric Lemonade" is a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail that is perfect for summer. This blue-colored cocktail is a combination of lemonade, vodka, blue curaçao, and Sprite or club soda. It is easy to make and can be prepared up to three days ahead of time, making it a great option for parties or gatherings.
The cocktail can also be turned into a mocktail for kids by using blue Kool-Aid and Sprite. The best part about this cocktail is that it can be frozen until slushy, making it an even more refreshing drink on a hot summer day. If you're looking for a fun and unique cocktail to impress your guests, "Electric Lemonade" is definitely worth a try.
8. Spooky Black Vodka Witches Martini
Looking for a spooky and cool-looking cocktail for Halloween? Look no further than the Spooky Black Vodka Witches Martini. This cocktail is perfect for any Halloween party, with its dark and eerie appearance and fruity, slightly sweet taste. Made with black vodka, pomegranate juice, and raspberry liqueur, this martini is sure to be a hit with your guests.
While the recipe does include a warning about using dry ice, there are safer options to achieve the same creepy smoke effect. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique and visually stunning cocktail, the Spooky Black Vodka Witches Martini is the perfect choice.
9. Strawberry Kiwi Cocktail
The Strawberry Kiwi Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for any summer occasion. This cocktail combines the sweet flavors of strawberries and kiwis with tart lime juice to create a tantalizing taste that is sure to impress your guests. The cocktail is garnished with fresh kiwi and strawberry slices, making it a beautiful and colorful addition to any party.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be made with a variety of different ingredients, depending on your preferences. If you're looking for a cool and refreshing cocktail that is both delicious and visually stunning, then the Strawberry Kiwi Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
10. Rainbow Layered Cocktail
The Rainbow Layered Cocktail is a stunning gin-based drink that is sure to impress your guests. The cocktail features Empress 1908 Gin, which gives it a beautiful lavender color and a unique citrusy taste. The drink is made by layering pineapple juice, orange juice, club soda, and grenadine or raspberry syrup to create a rainbow effect in the glass.
It's a perfect drink for parties or events where you want to wow your guests with a colorful and delicious cocktail. The Rainbow Layered Cocktail is easy to make and doesn't require any special equipment, making it a great option for home bartenders. If you're looking for a fun and impressive cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Rainbow Layered Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
11. Wonderful Strawberry Hennessy Cocktail
If you're looking for a cocktail that's both easy to make and packed with flavor, the Wonderful Strawberry Hennessy Cocktail is a must-try. This cocktail combines the classic taste of Hennessy Cognac with homemade strawberry syrup, fresh strawberries, and mint leaves for a refreshing and fruity taste.
The addition of Brut champagne adds a light fizz and balances out the sweetness of the strawberry syrup. The cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a summer-themed drink or a special treat for a night in. With its unique blend of flavors and simple preparation, the Wonderful Strawberry Hennessy Cocktail is sure to impress.
12. St. Germain Cocktail
The St. Germain Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly drink that is perfect for any celebration or gathering. Made with St. Germain elderflower liqueur, gin or vodka, lemon, and topped with sparkling wine, this cocktail is effervescent, light, and surprisingly strong. The elderflower liqueur adds a unique floral flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lemon and the bubbles of the sparkling wine.
Its classy good looks and light, appealing flavor profile make it a superb selection for a brunch cocktail, bridal shower cocktail, summer cocktail, or a fun signature drink to make the classic cocktail at your house. Sip with caution, as this cocktail might taste light, but its contents are definitely fit for a celebration!
13. Blueberry Vodka Lemonade
The Blueberry Vodka Lemonade is a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail that is perfect for summer gatherings. The sweet vanilla blueberry base and tart lemonade layer create a deliciously balanced flavor profile that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The bright contrasting colors of blue and yellow make this cocktail a real showstopper and will definitely impress your guests. If you're looking for a cool looking cocktail that tastes as good as it looks, the Blueberry Vodka Lemonade is definitely worth a try. And if you're looking for more drink recipes to impress your friends, be sure to check out the other cocktails in our article.
14. Limoncello and Vodka Cocktail
The Limoncello and Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is easy to make and doesn't require any complicated ingredients or tools.
The combination of limoncello, vodka, and lemonade creates a bright and flavorful cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is perfect for a poolside party or a relaxing day on the deck. The Limoncello and Vodka Cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
15. Spring Gin Lemonade
The Spring Gin Lemonade is a visually stunning cocktail that's perfect for warm summer evenings. It's a mix of cloudy lemonade, fresh lemons, limes, cucumber, mint, and gin, making it a fruity and delicious drink.
The cocktail is best served in a large glass drinks dispenser, making it a great sharing drink for parties. It's easy to make ahead of time and will definitely impress your guests.
16. Empress Gin Cocktail
The Empress Gin Cocktail is a vibrant and mesmerizing drink that is perfect for summer parties. With just four ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and looks stunning with its ombre layered look. The tart and sweet taste of the cocktail is refreshing and perfect for warm summer days.
The Empress Gin Cocktail is a great addition to any party, and its unique color and flavor will impress your guests. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to serve at your next summer party, the Empress Gin Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
17. Cheesecake Cocktail
The Cheesecake Cocktail is a decadent and creamy drink that is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Made with Amaretto, vanilla vodka, and Irish cream (Kahlua), this cocktail is reminiscent of the classic dessert it's named after. The rim of the glass is coated with honey and graham cracker crumbs for added flavor and texture.
This cocktail is versatile and can be personalized with different fruit flavors and garnishes. It's a great addition to any casual occasion or party, and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves cheesecake. If you're looking for a sweet and indulgent drink that doubles as dessert, the Cheesecake Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
18. The Red Pom Cocktail
The Red Pom Cocktail is a perfect drink for Valentine's Day or Christmas parties. It's a beautiful red color and has a refreshing taste with pops of flavor from the pomegranate seeds.
The recipe requires fresh pomegranate, ruby red grapefruit juice, rum, crushed ice, and agave nectar. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and visually stunning drink.
19. New York Sour Fizz
The New York Sour Fizz is a cocktail that is sure to impress both visually and taste-wise. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a beautiful contrasting color and a frothy texture from the egg white. The cocktail is made with Risata Raven, a semi-sweet Red Blend from Risata Wines, which adds a bold and fruity flavor to the drink.
This cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for something a little sweet and a little tart. The New York Sour Fizz is easy to make and is a great addition to any Friday night. So, if you're looking to jazz up your cocktail game, give the New York Sour Fizz a try!
20. Aperol Gin Cocktail
The Aperol Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and eye-catching drink that is perfect for any gathering. This cocktail is made with gin, cucumber, lime, and a splash of Aperol, which gives it a beautiful color. The bitter notes of Aperol pair perfectly with the fresh lime and cucumber, making it a delicious and unique drink.
This cocktail is easy to make and only requires five ingredients, making it a great option for those who want a quick and easy drink. If you're looking for a new way to use Aperol, this cocktail is definitely worth trying. It's a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests.
21. Virgin Mojito
The Virgin Mojito is a refreshing and healthy mocktail made with fresh lime juice, mint, and sparkling water. It's a non-alcoholic version of the classic mojito, perfect for those who want a delicious drink without the added calories.
The cocktail is typically served in a high ball glass with ice and garnished with more mint and lime wedges. It's easy to make at home and can be made for one or for a crowd in a pitcher. Try this cool and refreshing drink at your next gathering and impress your guests.
22. Bramble Cocktail
The Bramble Cocktail is a modern creation that is both visually stunning and delicious. This gin-based cocktail is named after the blackberry bush on which blackberries grow, and it's made with black raspberry liqueur, gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
The cocktail is then poured over crushed ice, creating a cool and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. The Bramble Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful drink that is sure to impress.
23. Blue Margarita
The Blue Margarita is a stunning twist on the classic margarita cocktail. This drink is perfect for any occasion, but especially for celebrating the 4th of July with its patriotic blue hues.
The blue color comes from the Blue Curacao, a liqueur flavored with the dried peel of the Laraha Citrus fruit, grown on the island of Curaçao. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served on the rocks or as a frozen drink. The Blue Margarita is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that will have everyone asking for more.
24. Meyer Lemon French 75
The Meyer Lemon French 75 is a classic champagne cocktail with a twist. Made with gin and Meyer Lemon simple syrup, this elegant cocktail is perfect for any special occasion. The Meyer lemons add a unique flavor to the drink, making it less tart and acidic than regular lemon cocktails.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing and complex drink. The French 75 is a timeless classic, and the Meyer Lemon French 75 is a modern take on it that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a cool and sophisticated cocktail to serve at your next party, the Meyer Lemon French 75 is definitely worth a try.
25. Perfect Pimm's Cup
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for summer? Look no further than the Perfect Pimm's Cup. This classic English creation is a gin-based liqueur that's been beloved for centuries, thanks to its tart-sweet flavor and cooling aftertaste.
With its low alcohol content and fruity taste, it's the perfect drink for sipping on a hot summer day or evening. While the recipe is simple, there's no shortage of creative twists and adjustments you can make to tailor the drink to your preferences. So why not give the Perfect Pimm's Cup a try and see what all the fuss is about?
26. Hakuna Matata Cocktail
The "Hakuna Matata Cocktail" is a Lion King-inspired drink that will transport you to the African savannah with its beautiful ombre sunset colors. This cocktail is a perfect blend of spiced rum, coconut rum, banana liqueur, and pineapple juice, with a hint of grenadine or maraschino cherry syrup for added sweetness.
The combination of these flavors creates a unique and delicious taste that will make you forget all your worries. This cocktail is perfect for family movie nights or any gathering with friends. The "Hakuna Matata Cocktail" is a must-try for anyone looking for a cool and refreshing drink that is both strong and flavorful.
27. Earl Grey Tea Cocktail
The Earl Grey Tea Cocktail is a refreshing and unique alcoholic drink that combines the floral flavors of earl grey tea with gin, lavender, lemon, and honey simple syrup. The complex flavors of the tea and botanicals in the gin create a mild yet energizing cocktail that is perfect for early evening or late-night drinks.
This cocktail is a great option for those who want a healthy drink that is easy to make and can be prepped beforehand. The addition of a sprig of lavender as a garnish adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to this already cool-looking cocktail. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique and delicious drink, the Earl Grey Tea Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
28. Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini
The Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini, also known as the Espresso Mocktini, is a delicious and easy-to-make mocktail that is perfect for coffee lovers. With only three ingredients, this drink is a great addition to any gathering, whether it's a party or a cozy night in.
While it may not taste exactly like a traditional espresso martini, it still offers a rich and indulgent coffee flavor that is sure to satisfy. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic drink that looks and tastes great, the Espresso Mocktini is definitely worth a try.
29. Spritz
Spritz is a classic Campari cocktail that is a perfect aperitivo. This beautiful cocktail is filled with ruby red prosecco and bitter flavors, garnished with fresh strawberries and oranges. It is a great alternative to the popular Aperol Spritz and Negroni cocktails. The fruit garnish is optional but adds a great touch to the cocktail.
If you find Campari too bitter, there are ways to adapt the recipe to make it fruitier. Spritz is a simple cocktail that takes only a few seconds to whip up, making it perfect for a quick and easy drink in the sunshine. It pairs well with a variety of snacks, such as marinated olives, crostini, bruschetta, and dips. Overall, Spritz is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress.
30. Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail
The Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail is a stunningly beautiful cocktail that changes color from purple to pink when acid is added. Made with Empress 1908 Gin, it has a unique flavor profile infused with butterfly pea plants.
This gin-forward drink is tempered by lemon and balanced by simple syrup, making it refreshing and flavorful. If you're looking for a show-stopping beverage that is easy to make and delicious to taste, then the Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail is the perfect choice for you.
31. Pomegranate French 75
Looking for a festive and colorful cocktail to impress your guests this holiday season? Look no further than the Pomegranate French 75! This twist on the classic French 75 cocktail adds real pomegranate juice for a unique flavor and a splash of festive color. Topped with champagne or Prosecco, this cocktail is perfect for any holiday party or celebration.
And with a small amount of gin and added juice, it's a lighter option for those who want to indulge without going overboard. Add some flair with a garnish of pomegranate seeds and a sprig of pine, and you have a beautiful and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress. Try the Pomegranate French 75 this holiday season and elevate your cocktail game!
32. Coconut Basil Mojito
Looking for a refreshing cocktail that screams summer? Look no further than the Coconut Basil Mojito. This light and spritzy drink is perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying with a meal. The subtle coconut flavor from the coconut water adds a tropical note, while the fresh basil and lime give it a zesty kick.
For those who prefer a more coconut-forward flavor, you can use coconut milk or coconut rum instead of coconut water. And while the recipe calls for white rum, you can also substitute vodka for a lighter taste. Overall, the Coconut Basil Mojito is a perfect blend of summer flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
33. French 75
French 75 is a classic cocktail that has been around for almost a century. It is a refreshing and chic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne creates a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.
The French 75 is perfect for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their next event or celebration. It is a timeless cocktail that has stood the test of time and is still popular today. If you're looking for a cool looking cocktail that is sure to impress, then the French 75 is definitely worth a try.
