Ginger beer is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate many cocktails. Whether you’re a fan of classic drinks or looking to try something new, there’s a ginger beer cocktail for every taste.
If you’re curious about how to create refreshing and unique drinks, explore these 18 ginger beer cocktails. From simple mixes to more complex recipes, each one offers a delightful blend of spice and refreshment that will keep your taste buds tingling.
1) Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. This refreshing drink is often served in a copper mug, which helps to keep it cool and enhances the experience.
To make a Moscow Mule, start by filling a glass or copper mug with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of vodka.
Next, add the juice of half a lime (about 1/2 ounce). Fresh-squeezed lime juice is best for a bright, tangy flavor.
Top off the drink with about 4-6 ounces of ginger beer. Stir gently to mix the ingredients. Garnish with a lime wheel for a finishing touch.
The Moscow Mule was actually created in the United States, despite its name suggesting Russian origins. It has remained popular due to its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients.
For a twist, you can experiment with different types of ginger beer to find the one that best suits your taste. Some variations include adding a splash of simple syrup or bitters for extra depth.
Enjoy your Moscow Mule as a perfect summer cooler or a festive drink for gatherings.
2) Dark ‘n’ Stormy
The Dark ‘n’ Stormy is a simple yet flavorful cocktail. It combines dark rum, ginger beer, and lime juice. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy the rich, robust taste of rum balanced with the spicy kick of ginger beer.
To make a Dark ‘n’ Stormy, start with a highball glass filled with ice. Pour 4-5 ounces of ginger beer into the glass.
Float 2 ounces of dark rum, specifically Gosling’s Black Seal, on top of the ginger beer. This rum is crucial due to its unique character, achieved through a blend of pot and column still distilling and aging in charred American oak.
If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The lime adds a refreshing citrus note that complements the spiciness of the ginger beer and the depth of the rum.
Gently stir the drink to mix the ingredients. Your Dark ‘n’ Stormy is now ready to enjoy. This cocktail has a rich history, originating in Bermuda around 1918. The combination of ingredients creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
3) Ginger Beer Mojito
The Ginger Beer Mojito is a refreshing take on a classic. This cocktail combines the zesty flavor of mint with the crisp bite of ginger beer. You’ll enjoy a drink that’s both invigorating and smooth.
To make a Ginger Beer Mojito, start with ten fresh mint leaves. Muddle them in a glass to release their flavor. Add two ounces of fresh lime juice to the mix.
Fill the glass with ice. Next, pour in 1.5 ounces of light rum. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can skip the rum and it still tastes great. Top the drink with four ounces of ginger beer to add a gentle fizz.
For a final touch, garnish with fresh lime wedges or slices and a sprig of mint. This cocktail is perfect for hot summer days. Whether you’re by the pool or at a barbecue, a Ginger Beer Mojito will keep you cool and refreshed. Enjoy!
4) Pimm’s Cup with Ginger Beer
A Pimm’s Cup with ginger beer offers a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. This drink combines the herbal flavors of Pimm’s No. 1 with the spicy kick of ginger beer.
To prepare, fill a highball glass 3/4 full with ice. Add slices of cucumber and strawberries for a touch of sweetness and aroma.
Measure out Pimm’s No. 1 and pour it over the ice. Then, add ginger beer to fill the rest of the glass. Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice for extra zest.
Mix the drink gently with a metal straw or a bar spoon. This ensures all flavors blend well.
For garnish, consider adding mint sprigs or extra cucumber slices. This enhances the presentation and adds a refreshing hint with each sip.
Your Pimm’s Cup with ginger beer is now ready to serve. Enjoy this drink on a warm day or during a festive occasion. It’s an easy yet flavorful choice sure to impress.
5) Ginger Beer Paloma
The Ginger Beer Paloma is a delightful twist on the traditional Paloma. This cocktail combines the sharpness of grapefruit juice with the fizzy kick of ginger beer.
Start by preparing your glass. Take a grapefruit or lime wedge and rub it around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into a plate of salt to coat it.
Add ice to your glass and set it aside. In a cocktail shaker, mix grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave, and tequila. Shake well to blend the flavors.
Pour the mixture into the prepared glass. Top it off with ginger beer, filling to the top. The ginger beer adds a spicy and refreshing note to the drink.
Garnish with a lime or grapefruit wedge for an added touch. This vibrant cocktail is perfect for warm days and offers a unique combination of flavors. Enjoy responsibly!
6) Ginger Beer Margarita
A Ginger Beer Margarita combines the tangy taste of a classic margarita with the spicy kick of ginger beer.
You’ll need tequila, lime juice, ginger beer, and simple syrup.
Mix all these ingredients in a large glass or cocktail shaker. Stir well to blend the flavors.
Remember not to shake the mixture with a lid on, as the carbonation in the ginger beer can cause it to erupt.
Pour the drink into a glass filled with ice. You may want to use oversized ice cubes for a slow melt.
Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing finish and added visual appeal.
Enjoy this twist on the traditional margarita, perfect for any occasion.
7) Ginger Beer Shandy
The Ginger Beer Shandy is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail. It’s perfect for hot days and casual gatherings. You only need a few simple ingredients to get started.
First, fill a glass with ice cubes. Then, pour 1.5 oz of vodka over the ice. Add 1 oz of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Next, top off the glass with 4 oz of ginger beer. Stir gently to mix the ingredients. This blend of spicy ginger beer and citrusy lemon creates a balanced and flavorful drink.
For a finishing touch, garnish your shandy with a lemon wedge on the rim. This enhances the citrusy aroma and makes the drink look appealing.
Alternatively, you can make a simpler version by mixing equal parts beer (like pale ale or lager) and ginger beer.
Both versions offer a refreshing twist on a classic beverage. Enjoy your Ginger Beer Shandy as a delightful, cooling treat.
8) Spiced Ginger Beer Collins
A Spiced Ginger Beer Collins is a twist on the classic Tom Collins. This drink combines gin, ginger beer, and a hint of spice to create a refreshing, unique cocktail.
To make this drink, start by filling a tall glass with ice. Add two ounces of your favorite gin. Then, pour in four ounces of ginger beer.
Next, add half an ounce of lemon juice. This gives the cocktail a tangy kick.
For the spice, include a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients.
Garnish with a lemon wedge and a cinnamon stick. This adds both flavor and a nice visual touch.
Serve the drink immediately and enjoy the zesty and spicy notes.
9) Ginger Beer and Pineapple Punch
Ginger Beer and Pineapple Punch is a refreshing and fruity cocktail perfect for summer gatherings.
To make this punch, start by combining pineapple juice, orange juice, rum, and lime juice in a large pitcher. Stir well to mix the flavors together.
When you’re ready to serve, add ginger beer to the mixture. This will give your punch a fizzy, spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the fruit juices.
Pour the punch over ice into glasses. For a fun and festive touch, garnish each glass with slices of orange, lime, and a wedge of pineapple. You can also add a sprig of mint for extra color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy.
10) Ginger Beer Bourbon Smash
A Ginger Beer Bourbon Smash is a flavorful way to enjoy your evening. This cocktail combines the rich, warm notes of bourbon with the zesty spice of ginger beer.
Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need bourbon, ginger beer, lemon juice, and simple syrup. You’ll also need fresh mint leaves and ice.
Begin by muddling the mint leaves in a shaker. This releases the mint’s aroma and flavor.
Add ice, bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Shake well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Top off the cocktail with ginger beer. Give it a gentle stir to mix.
Garnish with a mint sprig or a lemon wheel to add a visual touch. Now, your Ginger Beer Bourbon Smash is ready to enjoy.
11) Ginger Beer Sangria
Ginger Beer Sangria is a refreshing twist on the traditional sangria. You start with a base of red or white wine, depending on your preference. Add sliced fruits such as oranges, lemons, and berries. This gives the drink its fruity flavor and vibrant look.
Next, pour in some ginger beer. This adds a spicy, fizzy element to the sangria. The combination of wine and ginger beer offers a unique taste that sets it apart from regular sangria.
You can also mix in a bit of orange juice or apple juice for added sweetness. Stir everything together in a large pitcher and let it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours. This helps the flavors blend well.
When you’re ready to serve, pour the sangria over ice in individual glasses. Garnish with extra fruit slices for a nice touch. The drink is light, bubbly, and perfect for any gathering or relaxing afternoon.
12) Jamaican Mule
A Jamaican Mule is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, combining the flavors of rum, lime, and ginger beer.
To start, you will need Jamaican rum, which is known for its bold and funky flavor. This will be the base of your cocktail.
Next, add freshly squeezed lime juice to bring a tangy element to the drink.
Fill your mug or glass two-thirds full with cubed ice. This will help chill the drink and keep it cool.
Pour in the rum and lime juice first. Stir them together briefly to mix well.
Top off the glass with ginger beer, filling it nearly to the top. Ginger beer adds a sweet and spicy kick that blends perfectly with the rum and lime.
For an extra touch, garnish with a slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint. This adds a bit of visual appeal and a hint of fresh aroma.
Enjoy your Jamaican Mule! It’s a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, ideal for any occasion.
13) Ginger Beer Cosmopolitan
Mixing a Ginger Beer Cosmopolitan is an easy way to add a spicy kick to the classic drink. You only need a few simple ingredients.
Start by adding 1⅓ oz vodka, ½ oz triple sec, and ½ oz cranberry juice to a shaker with ice. For a twist, add ¾ oz ginger beer.
Shake the mixture well until it’s chilled. Strain the liquid into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a lime wheel or a twist of orange peel. This refreshing drink blends the sharpness of cranberry with the zing of ginger beer. It’s a bright, flavorful option for any occasion.
14) Ginger Beer Daiquiri
The Ginger Beer Daiquiri is a zesty twist on the classic daiquiri.
Instead of the usual soda, you use ginger beer to add a spicy kick.
You start with white rum as the base.
Then add fresh lime juice and a bit of simple syrup for sweetness.
Shake the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
Top up with a splash of ginger beer for that zingy flavor.
Garnish with a lime slice or mint for a refreshing touch.
This drink is perfect for summer parties or relaxed evenings.
It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
15) Ginger Beer Pimms Spritz
You can make a refreshing Ginger Beer Pimms Spritz with a few simple ingredients. Start by filling a tall glass with ice. Then, add 2 ounces of Pimm’s No. 1 and 4 ounces of ginger beer. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
Next, add garnishes like cucumber slices, mint leaves, and fresh fruits such as strawberries or orange slices. This cocktail bursts with crisp, spicy, and fruity flavors. It’s perfect for warm weather.
Serve your Ginger Beer Pimms Spritz with a straw and a smile. This drink is sure to impress at any gathering.
16) Blood Orange Ginger Beer
Blood Orange Ginger Beer is a refreshing and visually appealing cocktail. This drink combines the unique flavor of blood oranges with the spicy kick of ginger beer. It’s perfect for hot summer days or festive gatherings.
To make this cocktail, you start with fresh blood orange juice. The citrusy sweetness of blood oranges pairs well with the tangy ginger beer, creating a balanced taste.
You’ll also need orange-flavored vodka and blood orange liqueur. These ingredients enhance the vibrant flavor of the blood orange juice and add a smooth finish to the drink.
Serve the cocktail in clear glasses to showcase its striking red hue. This makes it an eye-catching addition to any party.
Garnish with a slice of blood orange or a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance. These garnishes not only look good but also add a bit of extra flavor to your drink.
Blood Orange Ginger Beer is easy to make and perfect for impressing your guests. Enjoy this flavorful and colorful cocktail at your next event.
17) Ginger Beer Punch
Ginger Beer Punch is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for any gathering. It combines the spicy flavor of ginger beer with the sweetness of fruit juices and a hint of citrus.
To make Ginger Beer Punch, you need a large pitcher or punch bowl. Start by adding ginger beer as the base.
Next, mix in fruit juices such as pineapple juice and orange juice. These juices provide a sweet contrast to the spicy ginger beer.
Add slices of fresh fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes. These not only add to the taste but also make the punch look appealing.
If you want an extra kick, you can include a splash of cranberry juice. This gives a deeper color and a slight tartness.
You can garnish with fresh mint leaves. Mint adds a refreshing aroma and complements the fruity flavors.
Serve your Ginger Beer Punch over ice to keep it chilled. It’s a delightful drink for summer parties or any casual get-together.
18) Cucumber Ginger Beer Cooler
The Cucumber Ginger Beer Cooler is a refreshing cocktail that combines the crispness of cucumber with the spicy kick of ginger beer. This drink is perfect for warm summer days.
To make this cooler, you’ll need cucumber-flavored vodka, fresh cucumber slices, and ginger beer. Start by soaking the cucumber slices in the vodka for about 30 minutes. This allows the vodka to absorb the fresh, crisp flavor of the cucumber.
Once the vodka is infused, fill a glass with ice. Pour the cucumber vodka over the ice and top it off with ginger beer. Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors.
For an extra touch, garnish with a few more cucumber slices. This adds a nice visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor. The combination of cucumber and ginger beer creates a drink that’s both bright and invigorating.
Enjoy your Cucumber Ginger Beer Cooler on a hot day, or serve it at your next gathering. It’s a simple yet impressive cocktail that is sure to please your guests.
History And Origins Of Ginger Beer
Ginger beer has a fascinating history, transitioning from ancient medicinal use to a modern staple in cocktails and beverages worldwide. The evolution of brewing methods and innovations keep this drink relevant and beloved.
Traditional Brewing Methods
Ginger beer’s origins trace back to the 11th century in China during the Song Dynasty. Initially, it was brewed for its potential health benefits, especially for digestive issues. The recipe often included ginger, sugar, water, and sometimes lemon juice, which fermented naturally over time.
In the 18th century, the drink gained popularity in England. Here, brewers added yeast to speed up fermentation, creating a mildly alcoholic beverage. This version became popular in British colonies, spreading to North America, South Africa, and beyond. Ginger beer became known for its fiery taste and slight alcohol content, cherished in both social and medicinal contexts.
Modern Innovations
Modern ginger beer often differs significantly from its traditional counterpart. Today, you can find both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. Many commercial brands use carbonation processes to add the fizzy texture rather than natural fermentation. This change allows for a more controlled and consistent product.
Some modern brewers also experiment with added flavors, using ingredients like fruit juices or spices to create unique variations. These innovations have helped ginger beer maintain its popularity and versatility, making it a key ingredient in many contemporary cocktails, such as the Moscow Mule and Dark ‘n’ Stormy.
Overall, today’s ginger beer is a dynamic blend of history and innovation, retaining its core flavors while adapting to modern tastes and techniques.
Benefits Of Using Ginger Beer In Cocktails
Ginger beer brings unique flavors and possible health benefits to cocktails. It can add both a zingy taste and a touch of wellness to your drink.
Flavor Enhancements
Ginger beer offers a spicy kick that can elevate basic cocktail recipes. Its bold flavor blends well with other ingredients, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Popular cocktails like the Moscow Mule or Dark and Stormy are excellent examples of ginger beer’s impact.
With its natural fizziness, ginger beer adds a refreshing, effervescent touch to drinks. The bubbles make cocktails more lively and enjoyable. Additionally, ginger beer’s versatility means it pairs well with various spirits, including vodka, rum, and whiskey.
Health Benefits
Ginger itself is known for its potential health benefits. When used in ginger beer, it can help reduce nausea, support digestion, and offer anti-inflammatory properties. These health perks can make your cocktail choices feel a bit healthier.
Ginger beer typically contains natural ingredients without artificial additives. This makes it a better option for those who prefer cleaner, more natural beverages. Some ginger beers also include antioxidants, which can contribute to your overall well-being.
Tips For Pairing Ginger Beer With Spirits
When pairing ginger beer with spirits, it’s important to consider the flavors and characteristics of both the ginger beer and the spirits. Using these tips can help you create delicious and well-balanced cocktails.
Best Practices For Mixing
Start with high-quality ginger beer. Look for options that have a good balance of spice, sweetness, and carbonation.
Use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice can greatly enhance the flavors in your cocktail.
Consider the strength of the spirit. Ginger beer can hold up to strong spirits like dark rum and whiskey, but be mindful of proportions to avoid overpowering the drink.
Experiment with garnish. Adding herbs like mint, or citrus slices, can add an extra layer of freshness and visual appeal.
Popular Spirit Pairings
Vodka: The Moscow Mule is a classic example of pairing vodka with ginger beer. The vodka’s neutrality allows the ginger beer’s spicy kick to shine.
Dark Rum: Dark and Stormy is traditionally made with dark rum and ginger beer. The rich, molasses-flavored rum pairs perfectly with the strong, spicy ginger beer.
Irish Whiskey: The Irish Mule, a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, uses Irish whiskey instead of vodka. The whiskey adds a smooth and somewhat sweet flavor that complements the spiciness of the ginger beer.
Gin: Gin’s herbal and botanical notes pair well with ginger beer, creating a zesty and refreshing cocktail. Add some lime for a delightful touch.
Pairing ginger beer with the right spirit can elevate your cocktail, creating a delightful balance of flavors that is both complex and refreshing.
