As a bartender, I have seen it all when it comes to drinks. From the classic martini to the trendy avocado margarita, I have mixed and served them all.
However, there is one category of drinks that always catches my attention: Monster Cocktails.
These drinks are not for the faint of heart. They are bold, daring, and often come with a warning label.
But for those who dare to try them, the reward is a unique and unforgettable drinking experience.
What makes a Monster Cocktail? It’s not just about the alcohol content, although that certainly plays a role.
These drinks are characterized by their unconventional ingredients, creative presentation, and often, their ability to challenge the senses.
Some Monster Cocktails are sweet and fruity, while others are savory and spicy.
Some are served in elaborate glassware, while others are presented in unexpected vessels like hollowed-out fruit or even light bulbs.
As a bartender, I am constantly experimenting with new recipes and techniques to create the ultimate Monster Cocktail.
And in this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite recipes with you. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride, because these drinks are not for the faint of heart.
1. Spiked Watermelon Monster Energy
If you’re looking for a refreshing and energizing cocktail, the Spiked Watermelon Monster Energy is definitely worth trying. This cocktail combines the sweet taste of watermelon with the kick of Malibu rum and the energy boost of Monster Energy drink.
It’s perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying during happy hour with friends. The garnish of watermelon candies adds a fun and playful touch to the drink. Overall, the Spiked Watermelon Monster Energy is a delicious and unique cocktail that is sure to please any crowd.
2. Loch Ness Monster Shot
The Loch Ness Monster Shot is a wild and fun layered shot that is sure to impress your guests. Made with Midori, Baileys, and Jagermeister, this shot has a surprisingly delicious flavor that you wouldn’t expect from the combination of these three ingredients.
The Jagermeister adds a complex herbal taste with notes of anise, while the Baileys infiltrates the Midori to create a beautiful visual effect. With a high alcohol percentage of 35%, this shot packs a punch and is perfect for college students or people in their twenties. If you’re looking for a fun and tasty shot to serve at your next party, the Loch Ness Monster Shot is definitely worth trying.
3. Crow’s Blood
If you’re looking for a spooky cocktail to serve at your Halloween party, look no further than the Crow’s Blood cocktail. This champagne-based drink gets its eerie appearance from a combination of cranberry juice and angostura bitters, which give it a deep red hue. The drink is topped off with a sugar cube and garnished with lychee eyeballs, which are sure to give your guests a fright.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors make this cocktail a crowd-pleaser, while the creepy garnish adds a fun and festive touch to your Halloween celebration. So, if you’re looking to impress your guests with a delicious and spooky drink, give the Crow’s Blood cocktail a try.
4. Michelada
Michelada is a popular Mexican beer cocktail that offers bold flavors and a fun kick. It is typically made with lime, tomato, and spices, and served in a salt and spice-lined cup over ice. However, for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a virgin Michelada can be made by creating the cocktail without beer and adding extra tomato juice and spices to taste.
This spicy tomato-based mocktail is perfect for hot climates or enjoying with friends and family. Whether you prefer the traditional beer-based version or the non-alcoholic version, Michelada is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is definitely worth trying.
5. Merry Manhattan
Looking for a festive cocktail to enjoy during the holiday season? Look no further than the Merry Manhattan! This boozy concoction is made with bourbon, dry vermouth, and a few drops of bitters, but what really sets it apart is the ginger-cinnamon-cardamom infused syrup.
The syrup is easy to make and can be used in a variety of other recipes as well. The cocktail is garnished with sugared cranberry swizzle sticks, making it both delicious and visually appealing. If you’re looking for a way to take the edge off after a long day of holiday shopping, the Merry Manhattan is the perfect choice.
6. Dracula’s Blood Punch
Dracula’s Blood Punch is a spooky and fun non-alcoholic Halloween cocktail that’s perfect for the whole family. It’s a delicious blend of fruit juices and spices with a deep red color that’s sure to impress your guests.
The exotic flavors of cinnamon, ginger, orange, and clove give this punch a unique taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s easy to make and budget-friendly, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
7. Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple is a classic mocktail that has been enjoyed by kids and adults alike for decades. Named after the famous child actress, this non-alcoholic drink is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a refreshing beverage without the buzz.
The cocktail is made with a simple combination of ginger ale, grenadine, and a splash of orange juice, garnished with a maraschino cherry and orange slice. The sweet and tangy flavors of the drink make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from birthday parties to family gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of Shirley Temple or looking for a new mocktail recipe to try, this classic drink is sure to impress.
8. Sparkling Elderflower Cocktail
The Sparkling Elderflower Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves floral and bubbly cocktails. Made with Prosecco and St. Germain elderflower liqueur, this cocktail has a delicate sweetness and a sophisticated charm that makes it perfect for any occasion.
The St. Germain liqueur, named after the mysterious Count of Saint Germain, adds a complex and elegant flavor to the drink. Despite its vintage design, the liqueur was actually created in 2007, but the process of making elderflower liqueur dates back to 1884. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to impress their guests with a glamorous and delicious drink.
9. Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail
The Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This Monster Cocktail recipe is perfect for a romantic evening with your significant other or a fun night out with friends. The combination of chardonnay, apple raspberry cider, and vodka creates a unique and refreshing taste that is sure to impress.
The addition of a sprig of fresh rosemary as a garnish adds a touch of sophistication to the cocktail. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and fruity cocktail with a little bit of a kick. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to try, the Raspberry Cider Chardonnay Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
10. Spiked Orange Julius
The Spiked Orange Julius is a dairy-free cocktail that is perfect for summer parties and BBQs. It’s a boozy twist on the classic Orange Julius, with plenty of orange flavor and a creamy texture. What sets this cocktail apart is the addition of hemp seeds, which add creaminess and plant-based protein.
The cocktail is sweetened with agave nectar, making it a slightly healthier option than other cocktails. Topped with rice whip, this cocktail is a refreshing and indulgent treat. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve at your next party, the Spiked Orange Julius is definitely worth trying.
11. Blackberry Blood Orange Amaro Sangria
The Blackberry Blood Orange Amaro Sangria is a delicious fall/winter red wine sangria infused with Amaro Lucano, a secret ingredient that adds a complex depth of flavor. Bursting with fall and winter fruits like blackberries, figs, and blood oranges, this cocktail is easy to make ahead of time for a party and requires no added sugar.
It’s finished with fresh thyme to highlight its herbal characteristics and can be served in a vintage drink caddy with beautiful gold foil leaf glasses. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious drink.
12. Gordon’s Pink Gin and Tonic
Gordon’s Pink Gin and Tonic is a refreshing and elegant pink cocktail made with Gordon’s Pink Gin and tonic water. It is garnished with a fresh strawberry slice and has a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
The cocktail has a fascinating history, dating back to the 19th century when it was used as a cure for malaria. Today, it is a popular drink among Brits in the summer and is enjoyed by many around the world.
13. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a classic cocktail that combines Aperol, prosecco, and club soda to create a refreshing and easy-to-drink beverage. Its sunny orange color makes it the perfect cocktail for any occasion, but it’s especially great for summer. Aperol, a bitter orange liqueur, is the star of this cocktail, giving it a unique flavor that’s both sweet and bitter.
The prosecco adds a touch of fizz, while the club soda balances out the sweetness. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm day or for enjoying with friends. If you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail that’s easy to make, the Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
14. Coconut Margarita
The Coconut Margarita is a perfect summer cocktail that will transport you to a tropical island with its refreshing taste. This cocktail is a twist on the traditional Margarita, with the addition of cream of coconut that brings in a lot of sweetness and a pronounced lime flavor.
The rim of toasted coconut and a lime wedge adds to the tropical vibe of the drink. The recipe is easy to follow and the ingredients are readily available, making it a great choice for any occasion. If you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to sip on in the sun, the Coconut Margarita is definitely worth a try.
15. Lychee Sangria
If you’re looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail, look no further than the Lychee Sangria. This cocktail combines the sweetness of canned lychees with a crisp and clean Sauvignon Blanc and elderflower liqueur for a flavor that is sure to impress. The aroma of the elderflower liqueur adds an extra layer of complexity to this already delicious drink.
If you’re unable to find fresh lychees, canned lychees work just as well and are readily available at most supermarkets. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on during warm summer nights or serving at outdoor gatherings. Don’t miss out on this winner of a cocktail!
16. Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic cocktail that originated in Hawaii and has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. This tropical drink is a perfect blend of rum, orange curacao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup, served over crushed ice and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a cherry.
The Mai Tai is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that transports you to a tropical paradise with every sip. It’s a perfect drink for any summer party or beach day. If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy, the Mai Tai is definitely worth trying.
17. Lavender Lemonade Cocktail
The Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for spring and summer. The cocktail features a simple syrup made with culinary lavender, which adds a unique and delicious flavor to the drink.
The Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is also versatile, as it can be made with or without alcohol, making it a great option for any occasion. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique drink that’s perfect for any warm-weather celebration.
18. Ginger Carrot Juice Cocktail
The Ginger Carrot Juice Cocktail is a refreshing and healthy drink that is perfect for those who love a good cocktail but also want to stay on the healthy side. Made with freshly squeezed carrot juice, ginger, tarragon, and your choice of tequila or vodka, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The unique combination of ingredients in this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make you the talk of the party. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy cocktail that will satisfy your taste buds, the Ginger Carrot Juice Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
19. Pacific Empress
The “Pacific Empress” is a stunning gin cocktail made with Empress 1908 Gin and butterfly pea flower. The gin changes color depending on what it’s mixed with, resulting in a purple and pink cocktail that’s both delicious and beautiful.
With botanicals like rose petal, coriander, grapefruit, ginger, cinnamon bark, and Fairmont Empress Blend butterfly pea flower tea, this cocktail is a refreshing and fruity variation of classic gin and tonics. It’s perfect for summer and easy to make at home.
20. Non-Alcoholic Sangria
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic cocktail that’s perfect for holiday parties, the Non-Alcoholic Sangria is a must-try. This mocktail is bursting with flavors of cinnamon, oranges, and cranberries, making it a festive and delicious option for those who want to skip the alcohol. The recipe uses sparkling grape juice and brewed tea to mimic the flavors of red wine, while cranberry juice adds a touch of sweetness.
The cocktail is then finished off with sliced oranges, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks for a beautiful presentation. Whether you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option or just want to mix things up, the Non-Alcoholic Sangria is a great choice that’s sure to impress your guests.
21. Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler
The Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler is a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail that is perfect for summertime sipping. This cocktail features a homemade lavender simple syrup, blueberry juice, and botanical gin, topped with soda water for a bubbly finish.
The use of culinary grade lavender adds a sweet and floral aroma to the drink, making it a unique and flavorful option for gin lovers. The gradient look of the cocktail is eye-catching and sure to impress guests at any event. If you’re looking for a cocktail that is both delicious and Instagram-worthy, the Lavender Blueberry Gin Sparkler is definitely worth a try.
22. Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail
The Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is a festive and seasonal drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a great mix of flavors that are both complex and layered. The rosemary is muddled into the gin to infuse it with flavor without being too overpowering in the cocktail.
The ginger and cardamom syrup gives it some spice and sweetness, while the lemon helps balance the sweetness and the sweet vermouth gives it an extra layer of flavor. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a well-crafted cocktail and enjoy a challenge in flavors. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, the Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
