Summer is here, and the hot weather calls for refreshing drinks to quench your thirst. Whether you're lounging by the beach, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just hanging out with friends, there's nothing like a cool, delicious drink to beat the heat.
But what makes the perfect summer drink? Is it the fruity flavors, the icy texture, or the colorful presentation? Maybe it's the combination of all these elements that creates the ultimate summer cocktail.
As a bartender, I know that summer is the season to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. It's the perfect time to shake things up and create unique drinks that capture the essence of the season.
From fruity punches to frozen margaritas, there's a wide range of summer cocktails to suit every taste and occasion.
But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect drink for your summer gathering. That's why I've compiled a list of the best summer cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests.
These drinks are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sipping under the sun. So, grab your shaker, put on some music, and let's get started on creating the ultimate summer drink menu.
1. Sea Breeze
The Sea Breeze is a classic summer cocktail that has been around since the 1950s. Made with just three simple ingredients – vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice – it's the perfect drink for a hot day by the pool or at the beach.
The sweet and sour flavors of the drink are perfectly balanced, making it a refreshing and easy-to-drink option for anyone looking to cool off. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just lounging in the sun, the Sea Breeze is a must-try cocktail that's sure to impress. So why not mix one up and see for yourself?
2. Pink Bikini Cocktail
The Pink Bikini Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a sweet and tropical summer drink. Made with raspberry lemonade, coconut rum, and amaretto, this cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or at a backyard gathering. Topped with a scoop of orange sherbet, this cocktail is both refreshing and indulgent.
The garnish of fresh orange slices, raspberries, and mint leaves adds a touch of elegance to this fun and playful drink. If you're looking for a cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise, the Pink Bikini Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
3. Mango Sunrise Piña Colada
Looking for a fun and tropical cocktail to savor the last few days of summer? Look no further than the Mango Sunrise Piña Colada! This fruity and sweet cocktail is a twist on the classic piña colada, with a layered effect created by coconut cream and mango juice.
The signature sunrise look is achieved with a splash of grenadine, making this drink as visually appealing as it is delicious. Garnish with fresh fruit and a fun ombre paper straw for the ultimate party-ready drink. Perfect for sipping on a hot day, the Mango Sunrise Piña Colada is a refreshing and fun way to bid farewell to summer.
4. Boozy Frozen Lemonade
Looking for a refreshing and boozy summer cocktail that will cool you down during hot summer days? Look no further than Boozy Frozen Lemonade! Made with vodka or rum, this cocktail is perfect for any summer party or poolside gathering.
The frozen lemonade slush is sweet and tart, with a super lemony flavor that will make you feel like you're sipping on a theme park treat. The best part? You can customize the strength of the cocktail to your liking, making it perfect for any occasion. So why not try out this easy and delicious cocktail recipe and impress your friends with your bartending skills?
5. Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos
The Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mojito. Made with fresh blueberries, cucumber, and mint, this cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day. The addition of gin adds a nice kick, while the blueberry simple syrup made with honey instead of sugar gives it a healthier touch.
The cocktail is garnished with sliced cucumbers, lemons, blueberries, and edible flowers, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Overall, the Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting summer cocktail.
6. The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher
Looking for a refreshing and light cocktail to enjoy during the summer months? Look no further than "The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher". This cocktail is a perfect blend of herbal notes from the rosemary and citrusy burst from the grapefruit, mixed with soda to create a fizzy and delightful drink.
It's versatile enough to be enjoyed during brunch or dinner, and can even be made into a mocktail for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option. The Rosemary Grapefruit Refresher is a must-try cocktail this summer, and is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
7. Blueberry Mojito
The Blueberry Mojito is a refreshing and easy-to-make rum cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. With the combination of juicy blueberries, zesty lime, and fresh mint, this cocktail is bursting with flavour and is sure to leave you feeling refreshed.
The use of simple syrup as a sweetener ensures that the cocktail is perfectly balanced and not overly sweet. The best part about this cocktail is that it can easily be made in a large jug, making it the perfect drink to serve at summer parties. If you're looking for a new cocktail to add to your summer repertoire, the Blueberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
8. Strawberry Tequila Sodas
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail, look no further than the Strawberry Tequila Soda. Made with fresh strawberries, tequila, tonic water (or club soda), and lime juice, this cocktail is perfect for a warm day. The muddled strawberries add a natural flavor and color to the drink, making it a great addition to any summer gathering.
Plus, it's easy to make a batch before your guests arrive and serve them on a tray. With its lovely rose coloring and fruity notes, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or summer night get-together. So why not give it a try and add some excitement to your summer cocktail menu?
9. Strawberry Mojitos
The Strawberry Mojitos is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with fresh strawberries, mint, and a strawberry-flavored soda, this cocktail is a great twist on the classic mojito. The muddling of the strawberries and mint brings out the flavors and adds a nice texture to the drink.
Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer happy hour, the Strawberry Mojitos are sure to impress your guests. So, grab some fresh strawberries and get ready to enjoy this delicious summer cocktail!
10. Seabreeze Cocktail
The Seabreeze Cocktail is a refreshing and tropical drink that's perfect for a hot summer day. It combines vodka with sweet and sour juices, creating a deliciously balanced flavor.
With only three basic ingredients, it's easy to make and best served over ice. The cocktail is best known for its simplicity and is definitely worth trying if you're looking for a cool and refreshing drink this summer.
11. Raspberry Vodka Mojito
Looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail to beat the summer heat? Look no further than the Raspberry Vodka Mojito! This cocktail combines the classic flavors of a mojito with the sweetness of raspberries and the kick of vodka. The result is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Plus, with over 40 fun flavors to choose from, Pinnacle Vodka makes it easy to customize this cocktail to your liking. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a way to cool off, the Raspberry Vodka Mojito is sure to hit the spot. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
12. Strawberry Shortcake Sangria
Looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail recipe? Look no further than the Strawberry Shortcake Sangria. This cocktail is a twist on the classic sangria, blending whipped cream-flavored vodka, rosé wine, fresh strawberry slices, and strawberry simple syrup to create a sweet and fruity flavor profile.
The addition of strawberry shortcake flavors adds a playful touch to the drink, making it perfect for summer parties or a relaxing evening at home. The Strawberry Shortcake Sangria is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a standout among other summer cocktail options.
13. Basil Lemon Drop
The Basil Lemon Drop is a refreshing summer cocktail made with just four ingredients. The addition of basil takes this classic drink to a new level. It's perfect for entertaining guests at summer parties and BBQs.
The cocktail is garnished with a lemon slice and fresh basil, adding a touch of elegance to the drink. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Basil Lemon Drop is definitely worth trying.
14. Sea Breeze Cocktail
The Sea Breeze Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that's perfect for summer. Made with a blend of grapefruit and cranberry juices, along with vodka, this cocktail is a twist on the classic Cape Codder.
It's a great option for those who want something fruity but not too sweet. The addition of lime as a garnish adds a touch of tartness to the drink. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer barbecue, the Sea Breeze Cocktail is a must-try.
15. Pornstar Martini
If you're looking for a playful and mischievous cocktail to add some fun to your summer party, look no further than the Pornstar Martini. This seductive cocktail is a luscious combination of passion fruit, vanilla vodka, lime juice, and sugar syrup, with a shot of champagne on the side.
The passion fruit liqueur gives it a unique character, while the champagne adds a touch of luxury. The name may be provocative, but it's the flavors that make this cocktail a winner. So, if you're feeling a bit naughty and want to try something new, give the Pornstar Martini a try.
16. Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail
The Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail is a perfect blend of tropical flavors that will transport you to a beachside paradise. The deep red-purplish hue of the cocktail comes from the luxurious blackberry syrup, which is cooked with water and sugar. The Mount Gay Rum's Eclipse adds a rounded sweetness to the drink, making it a perfect summer cocktail.
The combination of pineapple juice, lime juice, and rum gives the cocktail a tropical-tiki feel, and it's lively, refreshing, and not very sweet. You can easily scale up the recipe to make a large batch of Pineapple Rum Punch for a crowd. Overall, the Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and tropical cocktail to enjoy this summer.
17. Lavender Lemonade Mojitos
Looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail that will impress your guests? Look no further than the Lavender Lemonade Mojito. Made with a homemade lavender simple syrup, fresh lemonade, and rum, this cocktail is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy with a hint of floral notes.
The addition of mint adds a refreshing touch, making it the perfect drink to sip on a hot summer day. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, the Lavender Lemonade Mojito is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not mix up a batch and impress your friends with your mixology skills?
18. Blue Devil Cocktail
The Blue Devil Cocktail is a refreshing and tropical drink that is perfect for sipping on during the summer. The blue color of the drink is eye-catching and will make you feel like you're on a tropical beach.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be found in a cocktail recipe book that contains over 1000 recipes. However, the color of the drink may vary depending on the type of orange juice and Blue Curacao used. This drink is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity and refreshing cocktails.
19. Strawberry Margarita
The Strawberry Margarita is a classic summer cocktail that is perfect for all your tequila lovers out there. This fruity and refreshing cocktail is made with fresh strawberries, lime juice, tequila, and orange liqueur. It's blended to perfection and served on the rocks over ice. The sweetness of the strawberries and the tanginess of the lime juice create a perfect balance of flavors.
The cocktail is garnished with a salt rimmed glass, which adds a nice touch of saltiness to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for any summer party or get-together. It's colorful, playful, and photogenic, making it an Instagram-worthy drink. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Strawberry Margarita is the way to go.
20. Pineapple Rum Punch
The Pineapple Rum Punch is a must-try cocktail this summer. It's a fruity and sweet drink that's perfect for sipping on a warm day. This cocktail is made with refreshing pineapple juice and Malibu rum, which gives it a tropical twist. The addition of soda adds a bit of fizziness to the drink, making it even more refreshing.
The best part about this cocktail is that it's incredibly easy to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy this summer, then the Pineapple Rum Punch should definitely be on your list.
21. Watermelon Vodka Soda
One of the best summer cocktails to try is the Watermelon Vodka Soda. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot weather and is easy to make. It's a fruity and sweet cocktail that's sure to impress your friends and family at any BBQ or get-together. The recipe is simple, requiring only watermelon juice, vodka, and soda.
The addition of watermelon juice gives the cocktail a unique twist and adds a touch of sweetness that is missing in traditional vodka soda. The drink is easy to put together and is perfect for any occasion. If you're looking for a refreshing cocktail that's sure to please, give the Watermelon Vodka Soda a try.
22. Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail
The Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious summer drink that is perfect for a hot day. Made with fresh strawberries, basil, lime, and vodka, this cocktail has a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please. The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.
This paleo-friendly cocktail is a great way to enjoy a drink without feeling guilty. The combination of strawberry and basil is a match made in heaven, and the fresh herbs add a unique and refreshing twist to this classic cocktail. If you're looking for a new summer drink to try, the Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail is definitely worth a taste!
23. Tangy and Sweet Watermelon Paloma Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and tangy summer cocktail? Look no further than the Tangy and Sweet Watermelon Paloma Cocktail. Made with fresh watermelon juice, tequila, and citrus, this cocktail is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.
The origins of the Paloma cocktail are murky, but this version with watermelon juice adds a sweet twist to the classic recipe. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests. So grab a pitcher and get ready to sip on the ultimate summer drink.
24. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco
The Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a refreshing and fruity summer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh muddled raspberries, Limoncello, and Prosecco, this cocktail is a sweet and tangy twist on the classic sparkling wine.
The addition of lemon adds a bright and zesty flavor to the drink, making it a perfect choice for a hot summer day. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on your own, the Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is sure to impress. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make summer cocktail, give this one a try!
25. Bees Knees Cocktail
The Bees Knees Cocktail is a classic, lemony cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with lemon, honey, and gin, it's a simple yet delicious drink that's easy to make. The cocktail is named after the slang term for "the best," and it's easy to see why. Served in a coupe glass, it's a small but satisfying drink that's perfect for sipping before dinner.
The cocktail is a Prohibition Era drink that has stood the test of time, and it's a must-try for anyone who loves lemony cocktails. To make the Bees Knees Cocktail, you'll need a cocktail shaker and a citrus-forward gin like Tangueray Rangpur. Try it out for yourself and see why this classic cocktail is still one of the best summer drinks around.
26. Salty Dog Cocktail
The Salty Dog Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with grapefruit juice, vodka, and a hint of salt and lime, this cocktail is a great alternative to a margarita. The addition of lemon-lime soda or Lime La Croix adds a nice fizz to the drink, making it even more refreshing.
The cocktail can be garnished with a lime wedge or grapefruit wheel for an extra touch of flavor. If you're looking for a beachy drink that will transport you to the sand and surf, the Salty Dog Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
27. Limoncello Prosecco With Blueberries and Thyme
The Limoncello Prosecco with Blueberries and Thyme is a perfect summer cocktail that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. This cocktail is a combination of limoncello and prosecco, with a hint of blueberries and thyme to add a unique twist. The sparkling lemony goodness of this cocktail makes it perfect for any celebration, whether it's a birthday, a wedding, or a simple gathering with friends.
The Limoncello Prosecco with Blueberries and Thyme is an Italian-inspired cocktail that will transport you to the Amalfi Coast with every sip. It's light, bubbly, and perfect for an endless summer. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer, the Limoncello Prosecco with Blueberries and Thyme is definitely worth a try.
28. Mojito
Looking for a refreshing and minty cocktail to cool off on a hot summer day? Look no further than the classic Mojito! Originating from Cuba, this cocktail is made with white rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda. The muddled mint leaves give the drink a burst of flavor and the lime juice adds a tangy twist.
The club soda adds a fizzy finish to the cocktail, making it perfect for sipping on a hot day. Mojitos can be customized with different flavors, such as blackberry or strawberry, for a fruity twist. Whether you're sipping on a single serving or enjoying a pitcher with friends, the Mojito is a classic summer cocktail that is sure to please.
29. Limoncello Gin Collins
The Limoncello Gin Collins is a refreshing and fizzy summer cocktail that is perfect for a hot day. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Tom Collins, with the addition of limoncello adding a prominent lemon flavor. The minty simple syrup balances out the tartness of the lemon juice and limoncello, making it a well-rounded drink.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with fresh mint and lemon wheels for an added touch of elegance. Overall, the Limoncello Gin Collins is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing summer drink.
