Whether you’re hosting a party or simply wanting to add some flair to your evenings, mixed drinks are a great way to explore flavors and impress guests. These 36 easy mixed drinks offer a variety of tastes and styles, perfect for any occasion. By following these straightforward recipes, you’ll find that making delicious cocktails at home can be both fun and effortless.
You’ll discover classic drinks that have stood the test of time as well as modern twists that bring something new to the table. From refreshing summer sips to cozy winter warmers, there’s something here for everyone. Dive into these recipes and start mixing drinks that everyone will love.
1) Mojito
A Mojito is a refreshing cocktail with a mix of sweet, citrus, and mint flavors.
To make a classic Mojito, you need fresh mint leaves, lime, sugar, white rum, and club soda.
Start by placing mint leaves and lime wedges in a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush them, releasing the mint oils and lime juice.
Add sugar and continue muddling until the sugar is dissolved.
Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Add white rum and stir the mixture well.
Top it off with club soda. For garnish, use a mint sprig and a lime wheel.
Enjoy this drink on a hot day for a refreshing twist.
2) Pina Colada
The Piña Colada is a classic tropical drink that blends rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. This sweet, fruity beverage is perfect for summer days or any time you want a taste of the tropics.
To make a Piña Colada, you’ll need white rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. For an extra touch, some recipes suggest adding a splash of lime juice. This drink is typically served blended with ice to create a smooth, creamy texture.
Start by measuring out your ingredients. In a blender, combine the rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and crushed ice. Blend until the mixture is smooth. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute.
Once blended, pour the Piña Colada into a tall glass, such as a hurricane or highball glass. You can garnish it with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry to make it look even more appealing.
Some variations include adding orange juice to give a tangy twist to the classic taste. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, there are mixes available that reduce the sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
Enjoy your Piña Colada as a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a special drink for your next party.
3) Bloody Mary
You’ll love a Bloody Mary if you enjoy a mix of savory and spicy flavors. This cocktail is perfect for brunch or a morning pick-me-up.
Start with a highball glass, fill it with ice, and set it aside. Combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a cocktail shaker. Add hot sauce, horseradish, celery salt, and black pepper.
Shake the mixture well until the shaker feels cold. Wet the rim of your glass with a lemon wedge and roll it in celery salt. Pour the mixture into the prepared glass.
You can customize your Bloody Mary by adding spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Garnish with a celery stick, pickle spear, or olives.
The drink’s versatility allows for many variations. You might try the Old Bay Bloody Mary, which includes Old Bay seasoning for extra spiciness. Adding a splash of soy sauce can also enhance the savory flavor.
A Bloody Mary is a great blend of flavors that you can tailor to fit your taste.
4) Margarita
The Margarita is a classic cocktail loved by many. It’s known for its balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors.
To make a Margarita, start by running a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it in salt. This adds a salty touch to every sip.
Mix 3 parts tequila, 2 parts orange liqueur, and 1 part lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
Strain the drink into your prepared glass filled with ice. You can add a lime slice as garnish for a fresh look.
For a sweeter Margarita, you can add a bit of simple syrup to taste. This makes the drink more balanced if you prefer a less tart flavor.
5) Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that dates back to the early 1800s. It’s known for its simplicity and strong, bold flavors. To make an Old Fashioned, you’ll need a few key ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, simple syrup or sugar, and bitters.
Start by adding a sugar cube or simple syrup to a rocks glass. Then, add a few dashes of bitters. Muddle them together if using a sugar cube. Next, fill the glass with ice and pour in the whiskey.
Stir the mixture well to combine and chill the drink. Garnish with an orange peel or cherry to add a touch of sweetness and aroma. The result is a smooth, balanced cocktail that highlights the rich flavor of the whiskey.
An Old Fashioned is best enjoyed slowly, allowing the ice to melt and dilute the drink slightly. This brings out the nuanced flavors. Whether you’re at home or at a bar, this classic cocktail is always a good choice.
6) Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan, often called a “cosmo,” is a popular cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. This drink became widely known in the 1990s thanks to the TV show “Sex and the City.”
To make a Cosmopolitan, you will need a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Pour in vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
Shake the mixture well for about 30 seconds until the shaker feels cold. Then, strain the drink into a martini glass. The pink hue and tangy taste make it a favorite at many parties.
A classic Cosmopolitan uses about half an ounce of lime juice, but you can adjust it to your taste. The drink is refreshing and elegant, perfect for special occasions.
7) Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail from the 1940s. It blends rum, lime juice, orange liqueur, and orgeat syrup for a refreshing drink. This cocktail is perfect for summer days.
To make a Mai Tai, start with a cocktail shaker. Fill it halfway with crushed ice. Add white rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup. Shake for a few seconds.
Next, pour the contents into an old-fashioned glass. Add more crushed ice on top if needed. Float dark rum over the top of the drink.
For garnish, use a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor. Your Mai Tai is now ready to be enjoyed.
8) Whiskey Sour
A Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 1860s. It’s a simple yet refined drink.
To make a Whiskey Sour, you’ll need whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Some people also like to include a bit of egg white for a silky texture.
Combine the ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously. This is called a dry shake and helps to mix the egg white if you are using it.
After the dry shake, add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled. Strain the mix into a glass.
You can serve your Whiskey Sour over ice in a rocks glass or without ice in a coupe glass. A few drops of Angostura bitters on top make a nice garnish.
9) Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a classic cocktail that is simple yet refreshing. It’s made with just three main ingredients: rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
To start, you’ll need light or white rum. The quality of the rum is important since it forms the base of the drink.
Next, add freshly squeezed lime juice. The freshness of the lime juice gives the cocktail its signature tartness.
Then, use simple syrup to balance the tartness of the lime juice. Simple syrup is made by dissolving sugar in water at a 1:1 ratio.
Combine these ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 20-30 seconds until it’s well chilled.
Finally, strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. While a Daiquiri usually isn’t garnished, you can add a lime wedge or a twist of lime peel if you like.
10) Gin and Tonic
A classic Gin and Tonic is perfect for warm days and simple to make. Begin by filling a highball glass with ice.
Pour in 2 ounces of gin. Next, add approximately 6 ounces of tonic water. You can adjust the ratio to taste. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
To finish, garnish with a lime wheel or a twist. Some variations include adding a splash of lemon juice or different garnishes like grapefruit.
The drink is known for its refreshing qualities and is an enduring favorite in many bars.
11) Sex on the Beach
Sex on the Beach is a bright, tropical cocktail that’s perfect for summer gatherings. You’ll need vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice. These ingredients combine to create a colorful drink.
Start by filling a highball glass with ice. Add 1 ½ ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of peach schnapps. Next, pour in 2 ounces of orange juice, followed by 2 ounces of cranberry juice.
For a virgin version, omit the vodka and use peach nectar or pineapple juice instead of schnapps. Pour the peach nectar first, then add the orange juice and cranberry juice.
This cocktail is easy to make and visually striking, making it a hit at parties. Add an orange slice or a cherry for a festive garnish.
12) Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise is a classic cocktail that brings vibrant colors and refreshing flavors to your glass. It’s made with only three ingredients: tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
To prepare a Tequila Sunrise, start by filling a highball or Collins glass with ice cubes. Pour in tequila and orange juice, then stir to mix them well.
Next, slowly pour grenadine down the inside of the glass. The grenadine sinks to the bottom, creating a beautiful red-to-orange gradient. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry for a finishing touch.
This drink became popular in the 1970s and is believed to have first been made during Prohibition at the Agua Caliente Resort in Tijuana, Mexico. It gained fame when The Rolling Stones enjoyed it during their 1972 tour.
The Tequila Sunrise not only tastes great but also looks striking in any setting, making it a popular choice for parties and gatherings. It’s easy to make and a surefire way to impress your guests. Enjoy!
13) Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century. It is known for its simple ingredients and bold flavor.
To make a Manhattan, you’ll need whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Start by chilling a cocktail glass in the freezer or with ice.
In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Stir for about 20-30 seconds until the drink is well chilled.
Strain the mixture into your chilled glass. For garnish, use a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel.
The Manhattan’s rich, smooth taste makes it a favorite among whiskey lovers. It’s a perfect drink for a sophisticated evening.
14) Long Island Iced Tea
Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail that packs a punch with its mix of various spirits. Despite its name, it doesn’t contain any tea. Instead, it combines vodka, white rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec.
You start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes. Add the vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec. Next, pour in lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.
The final touch is adding cola on top. This gives the drink its tea-like appearance and adds a touch of sweetness. Garnish with a slice of lemon to enhance the presentation.
This cocktail is known for its strong alcohol content, so drink responsibly.
15) Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a refreshing classic cocktail, perfect for hot days.
Start by making mint simple syrup. Boil water, sugar, and fresh mint leaves until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool, then strain out the mint leaves.
Pack a glass, preferably a julep cup, to the top with crushed ice. Add 2 1/2 ounces of bourbon whiskey to the glass.
Pour 1/2 ounce of your mint simple syrup into the glass. Gently muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the syrup to release their oils.
Stir the mixture until the cup is frosty on the outside. Top with more crushed ice to make a little ice dome.
Garnish with a sprig of mint and, optionally, a few drops of bitters. Sip and enjoy this cool, minty drink!
16) Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a simple yet popular cocktail. It’s a mix of vodka and orange juice, making it easy to prepare and enjoy. You can serve it in a highball glass filled with ice.
You can make a classic Screwdriver in just a few steps. Pour vodka over ice, then top it off with fresh orange juice. Stir until the vodka and orange juice are well mixed.
This drink is versatile, so you can customize it. For a lighter taste, add club soda or ginger ale. Some variations also include Aperol or a float of Galliano for added flavor.
The Screwdriver is a favorite at brunches and casual gatherings due to its easy preparation and refreshing taste. Using high-quality vodka and fresh-squeezed orange juice can make a big difference.
17) Caipirinha
The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail. It’s made with cachaça, lime, and sugar.
Cachaça is a spirit distilled from sugarcane juice. It’s similar to rum, but with a distinct taste. You can use either a lightly aged, transparent cachaça for a sharp flavor, or a golden-hued, long-aged cachaça for a smoother taste.
To make a Caipirinha, first cut a lime into small wedges. Place the wedges in a glass and sprinkle sugar over them. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press the lime and sugar together. This releases the lime juice and mixes it with the sugar.
Next, add ice to the glass. Pour cachaça over the ice. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients.
Enjoy your Caipirinha as a refreshing, tangy drink. It captures the spirit of Brazil with each sip.
18) Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It’s a simple and refreshing drink that you can easily make at home.
You start by filling a tall glass with ice. Next, add 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well to combine the ingredients.
Once mixed, pour the contents of the shaker into the glass. Top it off with club soda and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry for that classic look.
The Tom Collins is light and bubbly, making it a perfect summer drink. Enjoy this timeless cocktail at your next gathering.
19) White Russian
The White Russian is a timeless classic that gained fame partly from its appearance in the movie “The Big Lebowski.” It’s an easy drink to make and has a rich, creamy texture.
To prepare a White Russian, you’ll need just three ingredients: vodka, Kahlúa, and cream. Start by filling an old-fashioned glass with ice.
Pour the vodka and Kahlúa over the ice. The traditional ratio is 2 parts vodka to 1 part Kahlúa. For a smoother texture, carefully float the cream over the back of a spoon onto the mixture.
Stir the drink gently to combine the layers. You can use heavy cream for a richer taste, or coconut milk if you need a dairy-free option.
Avoid using low-fat milk or skim milk, as these can cause the drink to curdle. If you prefer, you can experiment with variations by adding flavors like pumpkin spice or even peanut butter for a twist.
The White Russian is perfect for those who enjoy a creamy, dessert-like cocktail. It is simple, yet sophisticated, and sure to impress your guests.
20) Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that catches your eye with its striking blue color. It is a simple and easy-to-make drink with just a few ingredients.
You will need vodka, blue curaçao, and lemonade. Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of blue curaçao.
Shake the mixture until well-chilled. Strain it into a hurricane glass filled with crushed ice. To complete the drink, top it off with lemonade.
Garnish your Blue Lagoon with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry. This simple touch adds a pop of color and makes the drink visually appealing.
The Blue Lagoon is perfect for summer parties and gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser thanks to its pleasant taste and attractive look.
21) Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail known for its balanced, bitter flavor. This drink has been a favorite for many since its creation in the early 20th century. It’s a perfect choice if you enjoy bold, complex flavors.
You will need three main ingredients: gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Each component brings something unique to the mix.
To make a Negroni, combine equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Stir well until chilled.
Then, strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. Finish with an orange peel twist, expressing the peel’s oils over the drink before garnishing.
Enjoy your Negroni as an aperitif or a nightcap. Its bitterness and vibrant color make it stand out in any setting.
22) Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling is a classic cocktail that has a refreshing and tropical flavor. It first gained popularity in the early 1900s at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. This drink is known for its vibrant pink color and sweet, fruity taste.
To make a Singapore Sling, you will need some gin, Benedictine, cherry liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice, and bitters. Start by adding these ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake the mixture until it is well-chilled. Once that’s done, strain it into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. The final touch is to top the drink off with a splash of club soda. You can garnish it with an orange slice and a cherry to make it look even more appealing.
The combination of flavors in a Singapore Sling makes it a delightful choice for those who enjoy fruity cocktails. The gin and Benedictine provide a strong base, while the pineapple and lime juices add a refreshing twist. This cocktail is perfect for warm evenings or any time you want a taste of the tropics.
23) Vodka Martini
A vodka martini is a classic cocktail known for its simplicity and elegance. It’s made with just a few ingredients: vodka and dry vermouth.
To make a vodka martini, you need quality vodka. The flavor of the vodka is very important, as it forms the base of the drink. Choose one that you enjoy drinking on its own.
The dry vermouth adds a touch of complexity to the martini. You don’t need a lot—just enough to balance the vodka.
Combine the vodka and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Stir the mixture until it is chilled. This usually takes about 20 to 30 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. This helps keep the drink cold and crisp.
Garnish your martini with a lemon twist or a few green olives. Both garnishes add a little extra flavor and a touch of sophistication to your drink.
Making the perfect vodka martini is all about finding the right balance between the vodka and the vermouth. Experiment with different ratios until you find the one that suits your taste best.
24) Rum Punch
Rum Punch is a classic cocktail that packs vibrant flavors and a tropical twist.
To make Rum Punch, you’ll need light rum, dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. Start by adding the light and dark rum to a large punch bowl.
Next, pour in the pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Add grenadine for a touch of sweetness and color.
For a single serving, you can combine these ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until well-chilled and strain into an ice-filled glass.
Don’t forget to garnish! Adding cherries and orange slices makes the drink look as good as it tastes. Enjoy your refreshing Rum Punch!
25) Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that is both refreshing and easy to make. It originated in the 1940s in America, despite its Russian-sounding name. The key ingredients are vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer.
To prepare a Moscow Mule, you start by pouring vodka and lime juice into a copper mug or a lowball glass. Adding a handful of ice is crucial to keep the drink chilled. Then, top it off with ginger beer.
Stir gently to mix all the flavors together. Garnish your drink with a lime wedge to enhance its zesty flavor. For more variations, you can replace vodka with different spirits like gin or bourbon.
Enjoy your Moscow Mule for a refreshing and tangy experience.
26) Pisco Sour
The Pisco Sour is a classic cocktail from South America, especially popular in Peru and Chile. This refreshing drink is known for its balanced mix of tangy, sweet, and frothy textures.
To make a Pisco Sour, you’ll need pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and an egg white. The egg white is key to achieving the drink’s signature frothy top.
Start by combining the pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to froth the egg white.
Next, add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass to serve. An old-fashioned glass or a rocks glass works best.
For the finishing touch, add a few drops of Angostura bitters on top of the foam. This adds both a visual appeal and a slight hint of spice to the drink.
Enjoy your Pisco Sour immediately while it’s still chilled and frothy. This cocktail is perfect for any gathering and showcases the unique flavors of pisco.
27) French 75
The French 75 is a classic cocktail that’s been enjoyed for nearly a century. It’s a delightful mix of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling wine or Champagne. This cocktail is light, refreshing, and perfect for celebrations.
To make a French 75, start by adding one ounce of gin to a cocktail shaker.
Next, squeeze in a half ounce of fresh lemon juice. Then, add half an ounce of simple syrup.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is chilled.
Strain the mixture into a chilled Champagne flute. Top it off with your choice of sparkling wine or Champagne.
For an elegant touch, garnish with a twist of lemon peel. This simple addition enhances the drink’s fragrance.
The French 75 is known for its balance of sweet, sour, and bubbly elements. It’s a sophisticated choice for any occasion.
28) Aviation
The Aviation cocktail is a classic gin-based drink that has been around since the early 1900s. It was created by a bartender in New York City. This cocktail stands out because of its beautiful pale purple color and unique floral taste.
To make an Aviation, you’ll need gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. The combination of these ingredients offers a balanced mix of floral, tart, and sweet flavors. Crème de violette is the key to the cocktail’s distinctive color and floral notes.
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of maraschino liqueur, 1/4 ounce of crème de violette, and 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice. Shake well for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass. You can garnish your drink with a brandied cherry to enhance the presentation. The Aviation is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a sophisticated, yet straightforward, cocktail.
29) Bramble
The Bramble is a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and blackberry liqueur to create a tart and sweet drink.
To make a Bramble, you start with a cocktail shaker. Add 2 oz of dry gin, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 oz of simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is chilled.
Next, take an Old Fashioned glass and fill it with crushed ice. Strain the shaken mixture over the ice. Slowly drizzle 0.5 oz of blackberry liqueur (crème de mûre) over the top. The liqueur will create a beautiful gradient effect as it blends with the other ingredients.
For garnish, use a lemon wheel and fresh blackberries. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the drink a polished look. Serve immediately and enjoy the balance of flavors.
Remember, the key to a great Bramble is using fresh ingredients and quality gin. This drink is both easy to make and impressive to serve, making it a great addition to your cocktail repertoire.
30) Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing Mexican cocktail known for its bright citrus flavors. You will need tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda to make it.
First, choose a highball glass and fill it with ice. Add about 1½ ounces of tequila and ½ ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice.
Next, pour in around 2 to 3 ounces of grapefruit soda, filling the glass almost to the top. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
For an extra touch, you can rim the glass with salt. To do this, simply run a lime wedge around the edge of the glass, then dip it into a small plate of kosher salt.
Garnish your Paloma with a slice of grapefruit and a lime wedge. This adds color and a bit more flavor.
Enjoy the mix of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter tastes. The Paloma is perfect for warm weather and pairs well with Mexican dishes. Keep it simple, and you’ll have a delightful drink.
31) Appletini
The Appletini is a popular cocktail known for its sweet and tangy flavor. It combines the crisp taste of apples with the smoothness of vodka. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy fruity cocktails with a bit of a kick.
To make an Appletini, you’ll need vodka, apple schnapps, and either lemon juice or apple juice. Some recipes also call for simple syrup for added sweetness. The drink is typically shaken with ice and then strained into a chilled cocktail or martini glass.
Garnishing your Appletini can make it even more appealing. Common garnishes include thin slices of green apple and maraschino cherries. These add a nice visual touch and enhance the apple flavor.
You can adjust the sweetness and tartness of your Appletini by varying the amount of simple syrup and lemon juice. Experiment to find the perfect balance that suits your taste.
Serve the Appletini at parties or as a refreshing evening drink. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a hit with guests. Remember to always drink responsibly and enjoy your cocktail!
32) Black Russian
The Black Russian is a classic cocktail known for its simplicity and bold flavor.
To make a Black Russian, you need just two ingredients: vodka and coffee liqueur. You typically mix these in a 2:1 ratio, meaning two parts vodka to one part coffee liqueur.
Fill an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes. Pour the vodka over the ice first, then slowly add the coffee liqueur.
The drink can be stirred gently to combine the flavors or left to create a layered effect. The result is a smooth, rich drink perfect for sipping.
The Black Russian has a strong coffee flavor, thanks to the coffee liqueur, and a potent kick from the vodka. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy robust, straightforward cocktails.
Given its ease of preparation, the Black Russian is a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions.
33) Amaretto Sour
An Amaretto Sour is a delightful cocktail known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
To make this drink, you need amaretto liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Some recipes suggest adding bourbon and egg white for extra depth and a frothy texture.
Start by pouring amaretto, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
If using bourbon and egg white, add them now. Shake the mixture well without ice until it’s frothy.
Next, add ice to the shaker and shake again until cold.
Strain the drink into a glass filled with ice.
For garnish, use a cocktail cherry or a lemon twist.
This gives the drink a pleasant appearance and an extra touch of flavor.
The Amaretto Sour is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing at home.
34) Cuba Libre
The Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail that combines the flavors of rum, cola, and lime. It’s a simple yet refreshing drink.
First, fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the rum, typically about 1-2 ounces. Squeeze the juice from a lime wedge over the ice. Drop the spent lime shell into the glass.
Top off the drink with Coca-Cola. Give it a gentle stir to mix the ingredients. You can garnish with a lime wheel or wedge for an added touch.
Some recipes suggest muddling the lime after squeezing it to release more citrus oils. This adds a slightly more complex flavor.
If you prefer, you can add a dash of Angostura bitters for a hint of spice. Enjoy your Cuba Libre as a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess.
35) Hurricane
The Hurricane is a famous cocktail from New Orleans. It was created by Pat O’Brien in the 1940s. This drink was made to use up a surplus of rum.
To make a Hurricane, you’ll need light rum, dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. Mix these ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake the mixture until it’s well-chilled. Then, strain the drink into a Hurricane glass with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. The flavors are fruity and refreshing.
This cocktail is perfect for parties and special events. Its vibrant taste and eye-catching presentation make it a favorite choice. Enjoy your Hurricane responsibly!
36) Sazerac
The Sazerac is a historic cocktail known for its bold, spirit-forward profile. It is a signature drink of New Orleans and has been enjoyed for over a century.
To make a Sazerac, start by chilling an old-fashioned glass. Rinse it with absinthe and discard any excess. Muddle a sugar cube with a few drops of water in a mixing glass.
Add several dashes of Peychaud’s bitters and rye whiskey or Cognac to the mixing glass. Fill it with ice and stir for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Express the oils from a lemon peel over the drink and drop the peel into the glass. The Sazerac balances the sweetness of the sugar and the herbal notes of the bitters and absinthe.
This classic drink has a distinct flavor due to the black licorice hint from the absinthe. Enjoy your Sazerac as a refined and timeless cocktail.
Understanding Mixed Drinks
Mixed drinks are simple yet refreshing beverages made by combining liquor with other ingredients. Their history and definition are key to grasping their appeal.
What Are Mixed Drinks?
Mixed drinks are beverages that combine a type of liquor with at least one other ingredient, like soda, juice, or tonic. Unlike cocktails, they are straightforward and less complex.
For example:
- Jack and Coke: whiskey and cola.
- Vodka and Tonic: vodka and tonic water.
- Gin and Tonic: gin and tonic water.
These drinks are easy to make and popular for their simplicity and quick preparation.
History of Mixed Drinks
The concept of mixed drinks has been around for a long time. They gained popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially during Prohibition in the United States.
Prohibition led to the rise of mixed drinks as a way to mask the poor taste of bootlegged alcohol. During this period, people mixed alcohol with sweet or strong-flavored ingredients to make it more palatable.
Nowadays, mixed drinks remain popular in bars and homes for their ease of preparation and wide acceptance.
Preparing Mixed Drinks
Making mixed drinks involves having the right ingredients and tools. You need fresh items for the best flavor and a few essential tools to create various cocktails.
Essential Ingredients
To create great mixed drinks, start with fresh and quality ingredients. Fresh mint leaves and lime juice are necessary for a refreshing mojito. White rum and club soda also add to its crispness. Mixing drinks like piña coladas requires pineapple juice and cream of coconut. For a unique twist, add peach schnapps or cranberry juice. Always keep some simple syrup handy, which you can make by simmering equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves.
Garnishes are an important part of presentation. Use lime wedges, pineapple wedges, or various fruits like cherries and strawberries to enhance the look and taste of your drinks.
Basic Tools and Equipment
To prepare mixed drinks, a few basic tools are essential. Shakers, both Boston and cobbler types, are used to mix and chill ingredients efficiently. Strainers, such as Hawthorne or cone-style, help remove ice and solids from the liquid. A blender is useful for frozen drinks like piña coladas.
Measuring tools like jiggers ensure accurate proportions, and muddlers help release flavors from herbs and fruits. Long-handled spoons are good for stirring, and pitchers work well for batched drinks. Finally, don’t forget to have glassware suited to each drink type, such as hurricane glasses or highballs.
Tips for Perfecting Mixed Drinks
Mastering mixed drinks involves balancing flavors accurately and using proper techniques to ensure great taste and presentation.
Balancing Flavors
Achieving the right balance in your mixed drinks is essential. Start with standard ratios, such as two parts gin to one part tonic for a gin and tonic or three parts cola to one part rum for a rum and coke. Adjust the ratios to suit your personal preferences.
Use fresh ingredients like lemon, lime, and herbs to enhance the flavors. Avoid using artificial sweeteners which can alter the taste. Consider notable flavor profiles to create harmonious blends. For example, pairing citrus with herbs can bring a refreshing taste to your drink.
When sweetening drinks, opt for simple syrup instead of granulated sugar to ensure it dissolves properly. Experiment with infused syrups—try infusing thyme, cinnamon, or fruit for unique flavors.
Proper Techniques
Good technique ensures your drinks are perfectly mixed and presented. Start by measuring ingredients accurately to maintain consistency. Use a jigger for precise measurements.
Shaking and stirring are key methods. Shake drinks that include juices, dairy, or egg to create a well-mixed and frothy drink. Stir drinks that are purely spirit-based to retain clarity and add a silky texture.
Learn to layer drinks for aesthetic appeal by slowly pouring liquids over the back of a spoon.
Use fresh, quality ice to avoid dilution. Large ice cubes or ice balls melt slower and keep your drink cool without watering it down.
Always garnish your drinks appropriately with ingredients like citrus peels, cherries, or herbs, which can add both decoration and a hint of extra flavor.
