20 Refreshing Frozen Drink Recipes for Summer

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

As the temperatures soar and the sun shines bright, there’s nothing quite like a cool, refreshing drink to quench your thirst. And what better way to beat the heat than with a deliciously frosty treat that can be enjoyed on-the-go? Whether you’re looking for a fruity twist on a classic cocktail or a creamy milkshake to satisfy your sweet tooth, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 refreshing frozen drink recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for summer. From smoothies and slushies to frappes and freezes, these tasty treats are perfect for hot days at the beach, pool parties, or just lounging in the backyard with friends. So grab a glass (or two, or three…) and get ready to beat the heat in style!

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

This classic smoothie recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the tartness of fresh strawberries, creating a refreshing and healthy drink perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the bananas, strawberries, yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the ice and blend until fully incorporated and the desired consistency is reached.
4. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Piña Colada Slush

Beat the heat with this creamy and fruity slushie that combines the sweetness of pineapple, coconut, and lime. Perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a tropical escape.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Juice of 1 lime
– Sliced fresh pineapple for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine pineapple juice, coconut milk, and simple syrup.
2. Add crushed ice and blend until smooth and slushy.
3. Stir in the juice of 1 lime.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with sliced fresh pineapple.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy blend.

Enjoy your Piña Colada Slush!

Mango Margarita Freeze

Beat the heat with this creamy and tangy Mango Margarita Freeze, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 ounces tequila (silver or gold)
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine mango, tequila, lime juice, and heavy cream.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
4. Pour into glasses or a container for freezing.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight for a thicker consistency.

Cooking Time: None! Just blend and freeze.

Enjoy your refreshing Mango Margarita Freeze!

Blueberry Lemonade Slushie

Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy slushie that combines the flavors of juicy blueberries and zesty lemonade. Perfect for hot summer days, this recipe is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add water to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour mixture into a large bowl or container.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, add ice cubes and stir until slushy.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of blending.

Enjoy your refreshing Blueberry Lemonade Slushie!

Peach Bellini Smoothie

Escape to a warm summer day with this refreshing Peach Bellini Smoothie, combining the sweetness of peaches and champagne in a glass. This recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a decadent treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup frozen peaches
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the diced and frozen peaches, vanilla yogurt, heavy cream, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Watermelon Mojito Slush

Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing slush made with watermelon, mint, and a hint of lime. Perfect for hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups watermelon chunks
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 cups ice
– Club soda, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine watermelon, mint, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice and blend until well combined and slushy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and top with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Chocolate Peanut Butter Milkshake

Combine two of your favorite flavors into one delicious milkshake that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim or a non-dairy alternative)
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and chopped peanuts for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine ice cream, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add milk and blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts if desired.

Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.

Enjoy your indulgent treat!

Pineapple Coconut Smoothie

Looking for a refreshing and healthy drink that’s perfect for warm weather? This Pineapple Coconut Smoothie is the answer! With the sweetness of pineapple, the creaminess of coconut, and a hint of tropical flavor, you’ll be transported to a paradise with every sip.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine pineapple, Greek yogurt, shredded coconut, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add coconut milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.

Raspberry Lime Daiquiri

This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of lime and a hint of rum, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique twist on a classic daiquiri.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
– Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the fresh raspberries to the shaker and muddle them gently with a spoon or muddler to release their flavor and color.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a fresh raspberry and a lime wedge, if desired.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Green Apple Freeze

Beat the heat with this refreshing green apple freeze, perfect for a hot summer day. This simple recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors to create a delicious treat that’s easy to make and enjoy.

Ingredients:

– 2 large green apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped apples, sugar, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)

Orange Creamsicle Smoothie

This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of orange with the creaminess of vanilla, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout treat. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy drink that’s sure to put a smile on your face.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the orange juice concentrate, Greek yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and blend for another second or two to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.

Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.

Cherry Limeade Slush

Beat the heat with this refreshing Cherry Limeade Slush! This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups frozen cherries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine frozen cherries, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add water and simple syrup to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour mixture into glasses filled with ice cubes. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Yield: 4-6 servings

Kiwi Strawberry Cooler

Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy kiwi strawberry cooler, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up anytime!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 large kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine strawberries, kiwi, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the lime juice and blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
4. Top each glass off with sparkling water.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time), 0 minutes (cooking time)

Enjoy your refreshing Kiwi Strawberry Cooler!

Vanilla Chai Frappé

This Vanilla Chai Frappé recipe combines the warm spices of traditional chai with the coolness of a creamy frappé, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups strong brewed vanilla-flavored tea (cooled)
– 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or nonfat)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine brewed tea, milk, yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes and blend until fully incorporated and frosty.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation), 1 minute (blending)

Blackberry Mint Slushie

Beat the heat with this refreshing Blackberry Mint Slushie, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot summer day. This slushie is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy blackberries, cooling mint, and a touch of citrus.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine blackberries, mint leaves, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add water and lime juice. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour mixture into glasses filled with ice. Blend again until slushie consistency is achieved.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes

Tropical Mango Smoothie

Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing and delicious mango smoothie. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, it’s a great way to start your day or as a quick pick-me-up anytime.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine mango, pineapple, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until ice is crushed and smoothie is the desired texture.

Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.

Espresso Frappuccino

Get ready to experience a refreshing twist on the classic coffee drink! This recipe combines strong espresso, creamy milk, and sweet vanilla ice cream for a treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 cup of vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup of milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Brew the espresso shots and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and butter. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the espresso shots to the blender and blend until well combined.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into glasses filled with ice cubes.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Peach Melba Freeze

Beat the heat with this creamy and fruity Peach Melba Freeze! Layers of peaches, vanilla ice cream, and a hint of strawberry puree come together in a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup of strawberry puree
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the diced peaches and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a large bowl.
3. Pour the peach mixture over the ice cream, followed by the strawberry puree.
4. Use a spatula to gently swirl the mixtures together, creating a marbled effect.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)

Enjoy your delicious Peach Melba Freeze!

Blue Lagoon Slush

This icy blue drink is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, reminiscent of the tropical lagoons on a warm summer day. With just a few ingredients, you can create this refreshing slush that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup blue Gatorade
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine blue Gatorade, pineapple juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add lemon-lime soda and stir gently to avoid creating foam.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Blue Lagoon Slush over the ice.
4. Stir gently and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.

Lemon Basil Granita

Beat the heat with this light and zesty granita, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix. This lemony and herbaceous treat is easy to make and sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, basil leaves, and lemon zest.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. To serve, scoop the granita into bowls and enjoy as is or with a sprinkle of sugar.

Cooking Time: None! Just chill and wait for the flavors to meld together.

Summary

Beat the summer heat with these 20 refreshing frozen drink recipes! From fruity smoothies to creamy milkshakes, and even some tropical twists, there’s something for everyone. Try a Strawberry Banana Smoothie, Piña Colada Slush, or Mango Margarita Freeze to cool down on a hot day. With ingredients like strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and pineapple, these drinks are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth.

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