As a bartender, I've had my fair share of requests for grapefruit-based drinks. And I can understand why.
Grapefruit is a versatile fruit with a tangy and slightly bitter taste that can add a refreshing kick to any drink. When combined with soda, it creates a bubbly and effervescent drink that's perfect for any occasion.
But not all grapefruit sodas are created equal. Some are too sweet, while others are too sour. And some just don't have that refreshing fizz that makes a soda so enjoyable.
That's why I've taken it upon myself to scour the internet and test out different grapefruit soda cocktail recipes to find the best ones.
In this blog post, I'll be sharing with you my top picks for the best grapefruit soda cocktail recipes. These recipes are perfect for any season, whether you're looking for a refreshing summer drink or a cozy winter cocktail.
And the best part? They're all easy to make, so you can impress your guests with your bartending skills without breaking a sweat.
So, whether you're a fan of gin, vodka, tequila, or rum, there's a grapefruit soda cocktail recipe for you.
Get ready to elevate your bartending game and impress your taste buds with these delicious and refreshing drinks.
1. Hot Honey Grapefruit Soda
The Hot Honey Grapefruit Soda is a refreshing and spicy mocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, a simple hot honey syrup, sparkling water, and muddled raspberries, this cocktail is a great balance of sour and sweet flavors. The addition of hot honey syrup gives it a spicy twist, making it a unique and exciting drink to try.
The garnish of a juicy slice of pink grapefruit, a fresh raspberry, and a bouquet of mint makes it a visually appealing drink that is perfect for summer gatherings. Overall, the Hot Honey Grapefruit Soda is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a refreshing and spicy twist on a classic grapefruit soda.
2. Healthy Grapefruit Lemonade Sparklers
The Healthy Grapefruit Lemonade Sparkler is a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional soda. This fizzy drink is made with freshly squeezed grapefruit and lemon juice, mixed with sparkling water and garnished with rosemary sprigs.
It's a perfect thirst quencher for hot summer days and outdoor activities. The tartness of the grapefruit and lemon juice is balanced by the sweetness of agave or stevia, making it a guilt-free treat. If you're looking for a delicious and healthy way to enjoy grapefruit, this cocktail is a must-try.
3. Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail
The Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail is a refreshing and light summer drink made with fresh grapefruit juice, raspberry jam, sparkling grapefruit soda, and club soda. It is a low-calorie cocktail that is perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake.
The cocktail is easy to make and requires only five ingredients. If you are looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to enjoy by the pool, the Sparkling Grapefruit Bikini Cocktail is the perfect choice.
4. Paloma
The Paloma cocktail is a refreshing and tangy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, sparkling water, lime juice, and a touch of sweetener, this cocktail is a fresher take on the classic combination of tequila and grapefruit soda.
The drink is typically served in a highball or margarita glass with a salt-rimmed edge and garnished with a wedge of grapefruit or lime. The Paloma is a great alternative to the classic margarita, and its sweet and sour flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to mix up at home, the Paloma is definitely worth a try.
5. Tequila and Squirt Paloma
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Tequila and Squirt Paloma is a must-try. Made with tequila, grapefruit soda, a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. It's a simple yet delicious alternative to the classic margarita, and it's also inexpensive to make.
The Tequila and Squirt Paloma is a popular mixed drink in Mexico and is a great choice for entertaining guests. It's a perfect summer drink that can be enjoyed in your backyard or at a party. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, give the Tequila and Squirt Paloma a try.
6. Cantarito
The Cantarito is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with tequila, fresh orange and grapefruit juices, and a pinch of salt, this cocktail is similar to a classic Paloma but with a twist. The addition of grapefruit soda adds a nice fizz and balances out the sweetness of the juices.
For those who prefer a less sweet drink, making your own grapefruit soda with fresh juice and sparkling water is a great option. The Cantarito is traditionally served in a small clay cup, which adds to its rustic charm. This cocktail is easy to make and can be batched for a group, making it a great addition to any summer gathering. Give the Cantarito a try and expand your cocktail repertoire.
7. Grapefruit & Rose Paloma
The Grapefruit & Rose Paloma is a delightful twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the tangy taste of grapefruit with the subtle floral notes of rosewater, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile.
The addition of a sugar rim with crushed rose petals and dried grapefruit slices as a garnish make this cocktail a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. If you're looking for a refreshing and elegant cocktail to impress your guests, the Grapefruit & Rose Paloma is definitely worth a try.
8. Blackberry 'Paloma' Mocktail
Looking for a smoky and spicy mocktail that mimics the classic agave and grapefruit cocktail? Look no further than the Blackberry 'Paloma' Mocktail! This recipe uses Hella Bitters Smoked Chili Bitters to give a smoky flavor with a little heat, and fresh blackberries, lime, and grapefruit soda for a winning combination.
The grapefruit soda from Q Drinks adds a sweet-sour grapefruit flavor that stands up to bold spirits like mezcal. The addition of butterfly pea tea adds gorgeous color and dilution, making it a fun and unique ingredient. This mocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of a classic Paloma without the alcohol. Try it out and see for yourself!
9. Vodka Soda
Vodka Soda is a classic cocktail that is simple, refreshing, and perfect for anyone looking for a low-calorie, low-sugar drink. Made with just three ingredients – vodka, club soda, and fresh lime juice – this cocktail is easy to make and customize to your liking.
It's a great option for those who prefer a drink that's not too sweet and want to enjoy the taste of the vodka. With its light and bubbly texture, Vodka Soda is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a brunch, a pool party, or a garden party. So, if you're looking for a simple and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for any occasion, give Vodka Soda a try!
10. Cantaritos
If you're a fan of tequila-based cocktails, then you must try Cantaritos. This Mexican drink is a perfect blend of tequila, grapefruit soda, orange, lemon, and lime juice. It's similar to a Paloma, but with a more complex and nuanced flavor. Traditionally served in clay cups, Cantaritos is a refreshing and light drink that's perfect for summer evenings.
You can use any type of grapefruit soda and tequila to make this cocktail, but Squirt soda and blanco tequila are the most traditional choices. If you're looking for a new Mexican cocktail to add to your repertoire, Cantaritos is definitely worth a try.
11. Grapefruit Shandy
The Grapefruit Shandy is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for a summer day. This low-alcohol cocktail is a blend of beer and grapefruit soda, creating a citrusy and slightly bitter taste that is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy flavor.
The grapefruit soda adds a touch of sweetness to the beer, making it a great option for those who prefer a sweeter taste. Overall, the Grapefruit Shandy is a must-try cocktail for those who enjoy a light and refreshing drink with a citrusy twist.
12. Jarritos De Feria
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer, look no further than the Jarritos De Feria. This tequila-based drink is a staple at Mexican fairs and features freshly squeezed orange, lime, and grapefruit juices, along with a splash of grapefruit soda to balance out the tequila.
Served in a clay cup or mug, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. While we may not be able to attend fairs this year, you can still enjoy the taste of Jarritos De Feria at home. Give it a try and transport yourself to the lively streets of a Mexican fair.
13. Old Fashioned Paloma
The Old Fashioned Paloma is a refreshing and playful mashup of two classic cocktails, the Paloma and the Old Fashioned. The cocktail features bourbon and crisp grapefruit as the main ingredients, with a squeeze of lemon or lime and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters.
The result is a perfectly balanced sweet and sour flavor, combined with the earthy agave flavor of the tequila. The Old Fashioned Paloma is an easy-sipping and versatile bourbon cocktail that works well with just about any bourbon or rye you like.
14. Peach Palomas
Peach Palomas is a refreshing twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. The addition of fresh peach juice adds a touch of sweetness to the tart grapefruit soda and fresh lime juice.
Tequila Cazadores Blanco is perfect for mixing, and the spicy salt rim and fresh diced peaches add a nice touch to the presentation and flavor. It's a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy during the summer.
