As a bartender, I have seen it all when it comes to cocktails. From the classic Old Fashioned to the trendy Aperol Spritz, there is a drink for every taste and occasion.
But when it comes to summer, there is nothing quite like a refreshing crushed ice cocktail to cool you down and quench your thirst.
Crushed ice cocktails are the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a delicious drink at the same time. They are made by blending ice into small pieces, which creates a slushy texture that is perfect for mixing with your favorite spirits and flavors.
Whether you are sipping by the pool, lounging on the beach, or simply enjoying a lazy afternoon at home, a crushed ice cocktail is the perfect way to relax and unwind.
But with so many crushed ice cocktail recipes out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why I have put together this guide to the best crushed ice cocktails.
From fruity and sweet to tart and refreshing, there is a recipe here for every taste and occasion. So grab your blender, some ice, and your favorite ingredients, and let's get mixing!
1. Blackberry Mule
The Blackberry Mule is a refreshing summer cocktail that combines the smooth taste of Jameson Irish Whiskey with the tangy sweetness of fresh blackberries and lime juice. This frozen cocktail is blended to perfection with ginger beer and ice, creating a slushy texture that's perfect for sipping on a hot day.
The garnishes of lime slices, blackberries, and fresh mint add a beautiful touch to the cocktail's presentation. Whether served in a traditional copper mug or a clear cocktail glass, the Blackberry Mule is a delicious and festive way to celebrate the summer season. So, if you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that's sure to impress your guests, give the Blackberry Mule a try!
2. Refreshing Lime in the Coconut Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and tropical cocktail to cool off this summer? Look no further than the "Refreshing Lime in the Coconut Cocktail"! This delicious and frothy drink combines fresh lime juice, coconut milk, and crushed ice for a cross between a slushie and a milkshake.
The addition of rum makes it perfect for a summer evening on the patio, but it can also be enjoyed as a non-alcoholic version resembling a Brazilian Lemonade. The toasted coconut garnish adds a fun and tropical touch to this already delicious drink. Don't miss out on this perfect summer cocktail!
3. Vodka Sunrise
The Vodka Sunrise is a slushy cocktail that tastes like summer in a glass. Made with Sangria flavored vodka, orange juice, and grenadine, it's a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that's perfect for warm weather days.
The crushed ice adds a refreshing touch, while the grenadine adds a pop of color and sweetness. If you're looking for a fruity and easy-to-make cocktail that will make you feel like you're on vacation, the Vodka Sunrise is definitely worth a try.
4. Bramble Cocktail
The Bramble Cocktail is a refreshing gin-based drink that's perfect for those who love a sweet and sour combination. It's made with fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and Crème de Mûre (blackberry liqueur) which gives it a unique fruity flavor.
The crushed ice adds a nice texture and makes it perfect for hot summer days. The cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with a lemon twist or fresh blackberries. If you're looking for a new cocktail to add to your repertoire, the Bramble Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that has been a Kentucky Derby tradition for years. Made with bourbon, simple sugar, and fresh mint leaves, this refreshing cocktail is served in a glass full of crushed ice, giving it a boozy slushy texture.
This spirit-forward cocktail has a touch of sweetness and fresh minty flavor that is perfect for spring celebrations or to drown your sorrows after losing all your money on a horse. If you love bourbon and fresh mint, the Mint Julep is the perfect cocktail for you.
6. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri is a classic summer cocktail made with frozen strawberries, Bacardi rum, triple sec, fresh lime juice, sugar, and crushed ice.
It has a unique twist with the addition of triple sec and fresh lime juice, giving it a refreshing and sweet taste. The frozen strawberries and crushed ice give it a perfect consistency, making it a perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening.
7. Cherry Limeade
Cherry Limeade is a sweet and refreshing non-alcoholic drink that is perfect for beating the heat during the summer months. This crushed ice cocktail is made with fresh lime juice, Sprite, and maraschino cherries, all poured over crushed ice. Inspired by the popular drink from Sonic, the Cherry Limeade recipe is a great option for those looking for a kid-friendly beverage or an adult version with a splash of vodka.
The addition of sugar and maraschino cherries gives the drink an extra dose of sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, Cherry Limeade is the perfect cocktail to keep you cool and refreshed all summer long.
8. Caipiroska
Caipiroska is a refreshing twist on the classic Caipirinha cocktail, which is the national drink of Brazil. This cocktail is made with vodka instead of Cachaça and is perfect for those who prefer a smoother taste. The cocktail is made by muddling lime and sugar, adding vodka and crushed ice. The blackberry variation adds a fruity twist to the drink, making it perfect for summer.
This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. The key to a perfect Caipiroska is to take your time to properly muddle the lime and sugar, ensuring that the sugar has fully dissolved before adding the vodka. Overall, Caipiroska is a must-try cocktail for those who enjoy a refreshing and fruity drink.
9. Blackberry Lemonade Mojitos
The Blackberry Lemonade Mojito is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with fresh muddled blackberries and mint, rum, lemonade, and soda water, this cocktail is both sweet and tart, with a hint of mint that adds a refreshing twist.
The crushed ice adds a nice texture to the drink, making it the perfect choice for a hot summer day. Whether you are looking for a refreshing mocktail or a boozy cocktail, the Blackberry Lemonade Mojito is sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail lover?
10. Frosé
Frosé, also known as Frozen Rosé Wine, is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is made with freshly squeezed Rosé wine, blended with crushed ice and fresh mint, creating a perfect blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Frosé is a great cocktail to enjoy during the summer months, as it is light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping on a hot day. If you are looking for a new cocktail to try, Frosé is definitely worth a try. So, why not give it a shot and see what all the fuss is about?
11. Cherry Julep Cocktail
The Cherry Julep Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant gin-based cocktail that's perfect for summer. It's a great way to use up any leftover Cherry Brandy or Sloe Gin you might have lying around. Unlike the classic Julep, this cocktail doesn't contain any bourbon or mint.
Instead, it gets its beautiful pink-ruby color from the addition of Cherry Brandy and grenadine. Some versions also include absinthe, which makes the drink dangerously potent. Cherry Brandy is a sweet liqueur made with macerated cherries and brandy or vodka. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful crushed ice cocktail.
12. Jungle Bird Cocktail
The Jungle Bird Cocktail is a tropical drink that originated in the Hilton Kuala Lumpur bar in Malaysia in the 1970s. It is a unique blend of aged rum, sweet pineapple juice, lime juice, and Aperol or Campari, served over crushed ice. The bitter liqueur adds a magical twist to the fruity profile of the drink, making it more compelling and refreshing.
The Jungle Bird Cocktail is perfect for summer days, and its stunning reddish-orange hue and pineapple garnish make it a beautiful addition to any cocktail party. If you're a fan of tropical flavors and bitter notes, you'll definitely want to give the Jungle Bird Cocktail a try.
13. Blood Orange Mojito
The Blood Orange Mojito is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mojito cocktail. Made with fresh blood oranges and mint, this cocktail is perfect for those looking for a fruity and slightly tart drink. The crushed ice adds a nice texture and makes it a perfect drink for a hot summer day.
The vibrant color of the blood orange gives the cocktail an eye-catching appeal, making it a perfect addition to any party or gathering. Overall, the Blood Orange Mojito is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting crushed ice cocktail.
14. Green Tea Shot
The Green Tea Shot is a light and refreshing cocktail with a lovely light green color and a very peachy taste.
It is made with Irish whiskey, peach schnapps, and sweet and sour mix, topped with lemon/lime soda or lemonade. It's perfect for those who want a fun and unique shot to serve at parties. Give it a try!
15. Pineapple Coconut Rum Chata Cocktail
The Pineapple Coconut Rum Chata Cocktail is a tropical twist on the classic Pina Colada. It's a blend of creamy coconut milk, sweet pineapple juice, and RumChata, a unique blend of Caribbean rum, Mexican spice, and dairy cream.
The drink is refreshing, satisfying, and perfect for a hot summer day. It's easy to make and readily available ingredients make it a great addition to any party or gathering.
16. Caipisake
Caipisake is a refreshing and unique cocktail that combines the traditional Brazilian caipirinha with Japanese sake. This fusion of cultures creates a one-of-a-kind taste experience that is sure to impress. The cocktail is typically made with kiwi, but can also be made with other fruits such as strawberry or lime.
Compared to other popular crushed ice cocktails, Caipisake is relatively mild in alcohol content, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy a delicious cocktail without getting too tipsy. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, Caipisake is definitely worth a try.
17. The Joker Cocktail
"The Joker Cocktail" is a unique and complex cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of the iconic character. Inspired by the new Joaquin Phoenix movie, this cocktail is dark, menacing, and features the signature Joker colors of green and purple. The use of mulling spices adds a seasonal twist to the drink, making it perfect for the fall season.
The cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of spice that lingers on the palate. While the recipe may be complicated, the end result is a delicious and visually stunning cocktail that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a Crushed Ice Cocktail that is both unique and flavorful, then "The Joker Cocktail" is definitely worth trying.
18. Gentian Fizz
The Gentian Fizz is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for those who love a bittersweet taste. This cocktail features gentian, a root that is popular in France and is known for its bittersweet flavor. The bitterness of the gentian is balanced out by the sweetness of pineapple juice and the cold tonic water, making it a perfect summer drink.
The cocktail is finished off with a garnish of fresh mint, which adds a burst of freshness to the drink. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both unique and refreshing, the Gentian Fizz is definitely worth a try.
19. Coconut Milk Rum Julep With Fresh Mint
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to add to your summer rotation? Look no further than the Coconut Milk Rum Julep with Fresh Mint. This twist on the classic mint julep features creamy coconut milk, fragrant fresh mint, and smooth white rum for a frothy and icy drink that's perfect for sipping on a hot day.
Don't be turned off if you're not a big coconut fan – the coconut cream adds a luscious texture and nutty sweetness that complements the rum without overpowering it. And if you don't have coconut cream on hand, don't worry – you can easily substitute with coconut milk. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to mix up their summer drink game.
