Summer is here, and with it comes the heat! There’s nothing better than a refreshing drink to cool you down on a hot day. But why settle for just any old drink when you can have one that’s not only cooling but also delicious? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite summer alcohol drinks recipes that are perfect for sipping by the pool or at your next backyard BBQ.
From classic mojitos to fruity spritzers and everything in between, these refreshing drinks are sure to become your new go-to’s for hot summer days. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. So grab your favorite cocktail glass and let’s dive into our top picks for the season!
Classic Mojito with Fresh Mint and Lime
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this mojito recipe combines the brightness of lime juice, the sweetness of simple syrup, and the cooling effect of fresh mint leaves. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons white rum
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Soda water
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the lime wedges, rum, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Strawberry Basil Lemonade Vodka Spritzer
Combine the sweetness of strawberries, the brightness of lemonade, and the freshness of basil for a refreshing summer drink. This spritzer is perfect for hot days by the pool or as a unique addition to your next backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strawberry puree
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vodka (your preferred brand)
– 2 cups lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine strawberry puree and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add vodka and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, add lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and serve over ice.
Cooking Time: None! This spritzer is ready to drink in just a few minutes.
Tropical Pineapple Coconut Rum Punch
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of pineapple, creaminess of coconut, and the warmth of rum. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut milk, and dark rum. Stir to combine.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add a splash of grenadine syrup, if desired, for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in 10 minutes or less.
Watermelon Mint Gin Fizz
Beat the heat with this revitalizing cocktail that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cooling essence of mint and a hint of gin. Perfect for sipping by the pool or patio on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon chunks (seedless)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces gin
– 3 ounces simple syrup
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– Splash of club soda
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree watermelon chunks until smooth.
2. Add fresh mint leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
4. Add gin, simple syrup, and lime juice to the pitcher. Stir to combine.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Watermelon Mint Gin Fizz over the ice.
6. Top each glass off with a splash of club soda.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Bourbon Iced Tea Cocktail
Combine the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of peaches and the refreshment of iced tea for a perfect summer cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strong brewed peach tea
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey (preferably a high-proof bourbon like Bulleit or Blanton’s)
– 1/4 cup peach puree
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh peaches slices or wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the peach tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, bourbon whiskey, peach puree, and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the cocktail over ice cubes. Garnish with fresh peaches slices or wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cocktail is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Blueberry Lavender Gin and Tonic
Elevate your gin and tonic game with this unique and refreshing Blueberry Lavender Gin and Tonic recipe. The subtle sweetness of blueberries pairs perfectly with the floral notes of lavender, creating a sophisticated and revitalizing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 tsp dried lavender buds
– Lime wheel (optional)
Instructions:
1. Muddle the blueberries and lavender buds in a cocktail shaker to release their flavors and aromas.
2. Add the gin to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Blueberry Lavender Gin and Tonic!
Spicy Mango Margarita with Chili Salt Rim
Elevate your margarita game with this unique and flavorful twist, combining the sweetness of mango with a spicy kick. Perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce lime juice
– 1/2 cup agave syrup
– Salt and chili powder for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt and chili powder.
2. In a blender, combine mango, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Garnish with a slice of mango, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, just blend and serve!
Cucumber Elderflower Gin Cooler
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing drink, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. The combination of cucumber, elderflower, and gin creates a crisp and herbaceous flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz elderflower liqueur
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Muddle in the sliced cucumber until well combined.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None
Raspberry Rosé Sangria with Citrus
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing and fruity sangria, perfect for warm weather celebrations. This recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of citrus, all in a glass of chilled rosé.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of rosé wine (750ml)
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the rosé wine, raspberries, orange juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and stir gently.
3. Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with slices of orange, lemon, and lime.
Cooking Time: None
Passionfruit Mojito with White Rum
This refreshing twist on the classic mojito combines the sweetness of passionfruit with the crispness of white rum, perfect for warm weather or a tropical getaway.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 water and sugar, dissolved)
– 2 oz passionfruit puree
– Handful of ice
– Sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint sprigs with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add lime juice, simple syrup, and passionfruit puree to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Pour in the white rum and stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge and additional mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Pineapple Jalapeño Mezcal Smash
Elevate your summer cocktails with this refreshing Pineapple Jalapeño Mezcal Smash, featuring the spicy kick of jalapeño peppers and the smoothness of mezcal.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz mezcal
– 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1-2 slices jalapeño pepper, depending on desired heat level
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh cilantro or mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine mezcal, pineapple juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Add 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper to the shaker, depending on your desired level of heat.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh cilantro or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Blackberry Sage Bourbon Smash
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this refreshing Blackberry Sage Bourbon Smash. This cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want to elevate your drink game.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz blackberry puree
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh sage leaves
– Ice cubes
– Club soda
– Blackberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, blackberry puree, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the sage leaves to the shaker and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavors.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with blackberries and additional sage leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Lemon Verbena Vodka Collins
This classic Collins recipe gets a boost of citrusy charm with the addition of lemon verbena, creating a unique and revitalizing drink perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz lemon verbena syrup (see note)
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka, lemon-lime soda, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
3. Add the simple syrup and lemon verbena syrup.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make lemon verbena syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup dried lemon verbena leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Coconut Lime Daiquiri with Dark Rum
Transport yourself to the islands with this refreshing twist on the classic daiquiri. The creamy coconut and zesty lime are perfectly balanced by the rich flavor of dark rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add dark rum, coconut cream, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: None needed! This cocktail is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Peach Prosecco Punch with Elderflower
Add a touch of summer elegance to your gatherings with this refreshing Peach Prosecco Punch, infused with the subtle charm of elderflower. This delightful drink is perfect for warm weather celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of Prosecco
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup Elderflower syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– Fresh peaches, sliced (for garnish)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco, peach puree, and Elderflower syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add fresh lime juice and stir gently.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
6. Garnish with sliced peaches and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly of ingredients.
Grapefruit Rosemary Paloma
This Grapefruit Rosemary Paloma combines the brightness of grapefruit with the herbaceousness of rosemary, creating a unique and revitalizing cocktail perfect for warm evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1/4 oz rosemary-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Rosemary sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and rosemary-infused simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make rosemary-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan. Add 4-6 sprigs of fresh rosemary and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain the syrup before using.
Kiwi Mint Rum Cooler
Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing drink that combines the sweetness of kiwifruit, the cooling effect of mint, and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kiwifruit chunks
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine kiwifruit, mint leaves, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add the blended mixture to a tall glass filled with ice.
3. Pour in the white rum.
4. Top with lemon-lime soda.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Honeydew Melon Vodka Slush
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy slush made with honeydew melon, vodka, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups honeydew melon chunks
– 1 1/2 cups vodka (or to taste)
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the honeydew melon chunks until smooth.
2. Add the vodka, simple syrup, and lime juice to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or vodka level as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into glasses filled with ice cubes. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with a slice of honeydew melon and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This slush is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your refreshing Honeydew Melon Vodka Slush!
Blood Orange Aperol Spritz
This citrusy twist on the classic Aperol Spritz is perfect for warm weather gatherings and summer soirees. The combination of blood orange juice, Aperol’s bitter-sweet flavor, and Prosecco will transport you to the Italian Riviera.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Aperol
– 1 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 4 oz Prosecco
– Splash of soda water
– Slice of blood orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Aperol and blood orange juice.
3. Top with Prosecco and stir gently.
4. Add a splash of soda water to create a subtle fizz.
5. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink!
Cherry Lime Tequila Smash
Brighten up your spirits with this refreshing twist on the classic smash cocktail. This fruity and tangy concoction combines the sweetness of cherries with the zing of lime and the smoothness of tequila.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 4-6 oz club soda
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add tequila, lime juice, and cherry liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh cherries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing alcohol drinks recipes! From classic mojitos to fruity sangrias, and from spicy margaritas to crisp gin fizzes, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Classic Mojito with Fresh Mint and Lime, or a Tropical Pineapple Coconut Rum Punch for a tropical getaway in a glass. For a sweet treat, whip up a Peach Bourbon Iced Tea Cocktail or a Raspberry Rosé Sangria with Citrus. Whatever your taste, these 20 summer recipes will quench your thirst and make your hot days a little brighter!
