Mixed drinks are a fun and easy way to enhance any gathering, whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home. With only two or three ingredients, these drinks are simple to make and loaded with flavor.
Curating a collection of mixed drink recipes can transform your at-home bar experience. You don’t need to be an expert to mix these drinks; with a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to something special.
1) Mojito
The Mojito is a classic cocktail that combines fresh and bright flavors. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you need something refreshing.
First, gather your ingredients. You will need fresh mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, white rum, club soda, and ice. Make sure you have a sturdy glass and a muddler.
Start by placing about 10-15 mint leaves and one lime wedge into your glass. Use the muddler to crush the mint and lime. This releases the mint’s oils and the lime juice.
Next, add two more lime wedges and two tablespoons of simple syrup. Muddle again to mix the flavors. Be gentle with the mint leaves; you don’t want them to break into small pieces.
Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of white rum, then top it off with club soda. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
For a final touch, garnish your Mojito with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel. This not only makes the drink look great but also enhances the aroma and flavor.
Enjoy your refreshing Mojito!
Ingredients:
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 medium lime, cut into 3 wedges
- 2 tablespoons white sugar (or to taste)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 1/2 fluid ounces white rum
- 1/2 cup club soda
Instructions:
- Muddle Mint and Lime: Place mint leaves and one lime wedge into a sturdy glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice.
- Add Sugar: Add 2 more lime wedges and the sugar, and muddle again to release the lime juice.
- Add Ice and Rum: Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice.
- Add Club Soda: Top off with club soda. Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired.
- Garnish: Garnish with the remaining lime wedge and a sprig of mint.
2) Piña Colada
The Piña Colada is a classic tropical drink.
This cocktail is known for its smooth blend of rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. It’s sweet and creamy, perfect for a hot summer day.
To make a Piña Colada, add white rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut to a blender. Also, include some ice.
Blend until it reaches a milkshake-like consistency. Pour the mixture into a glass, like a Hurricane glass. Garnish with pineapple slices or maraschino cherries. For a fun touch, you can also add a little umbrella.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just skip the rum.
Enjoy your Piña Colada any time you need a refreshing tropical escape!
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces white rum
- 6 ounces cream of coconut (preferably Coco Lopez)
- 6 ounces pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
- 2 cups ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender, combine the white rum, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, frozen pineapple chunks, and ice.
- Blend: Blend until smooth and frosty.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into glasses.
- Garnish: Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry if desired.
3) Margarita
A Margarita is a classic cocktail with a blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. It’s a favorite for many because of its refreshing taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing, a Margarita can be a great choice.
To start, gather the ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and triple sec or another orange liqueur. You’ll also need ice and salt for the rim of your glass. Some people like to add a sweetener, such as agave syrup, but it’s optional.
Begin by moistening the rim of a glass with a lime wedge, then dip the rim into a plate of salt. Next, fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add equal parts of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to the shaker.
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-20 seconds. This helps to chill the drink and blend the flavors well. Once done, strain the mixture into your prepared glass.
If you prefer your Margarita on the rocks, add a few ice cubes to the glass before straining. For a garnish, you can add a lime wedge on the rim. Enjoy your Margarita with some tacos or Mexican dishes for a perfect pairing.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces tequila
- 1 ounce orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Glass: If you like a salted rim, run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it in coarse salt.
- Mix Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wedge.
4) Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails. It is simple yet full of flavor. You need just a few ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, Angostura bitters, and an orange peel.
Start by placing a sugar cube in your glass. If you prefer, you can use a teaspoon of simple syrup instead of the sugar cube. Add a few dashes of Angostura bitters to the sugar, then muddle them together until the sugar dissolves.
Add a large ice cube to the glass. Pour in your whiskey, usually about two ounces. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the flavors. This will also chill the drink.
Finally, express the oils from an orange peel over the glass. Drop the peel into the drink to garnish. This adds a lovely citrus aroma to every sip.
This combination of whiskey, bitters, and sugar creates a balanced drink that showcases the spirit’s rich flavors. Adjust the bitters or sugar level to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy your classic Old Fashioned.
Ingredients:
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon sugar)
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 teaspoon water
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- Ice
- Orange peel or cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle Sugar and Bitters: Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Add the bitters and water, then muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Whiskey: Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour the bourbon or rye whiskey over the ice.
- Stir: Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange peel or a cherry.
5) Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail known for its strong kick and refreshing flavor. Despite its name, it doesn’t contain any tea.
To make a Long Island Iced Tea, start by filling a glass with ice. Add equal parts vodka, tequila, rum, gin, and triple sec.
Next, add some lemon juice and simple syrup to balance out the alcohol. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Top your drink with a splash of cola. This gives the cocktail its signature tea-like color. Garnish with a lemon wedge for a touch of freshness.
Serve the Long Island Iced Tea with a straw in a highball or Collins glass. This drink packs a punch, so enjoy responsibly!
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce vodka
- 3/4 ounce white rum
- 3/4 ounce silver tequila
- 3/4 ounce gin
- 3/4 ounce triple sec
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Cola, to top
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, white rum, silver tequila, gin, triple sec, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with Cola: Top off with a splash of cola.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wedge.
6) Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan, often called the “Cosmo,” is a classic cocktail that became famous in the 1990s. It’s known for its vibrant pink color and refreshing taste.
To make a Cosmo, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. Shake well until the shaker feels cold.
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. You can garnish your drink with a lime wheel or a twist of lemon for an extra touch. This drink is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka (preferably citron vodka)
- 1 ounce Cointreau (or Triple Sec)
- 1/2 ounce cranberry juice
- 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- Lime twist or wedge, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and lime juice. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime twist or wedge.
7) Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic tiki cocktail known for its bright, tropical flavor. To make a Mai Tai, start with 1.5 oz of white rum, 0.75 oz of orange curaçao, 0.75 oz of lime juice, and 0.5 oz of orgeat syrup. Shake these ingredients lightly with crushed ice for about 3-5 seconds.
Next, pour the mixture into a double old-fashioned glass. Add more crushed ice to fill the glass. Float 0.5 oz of dark rum on top for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.
For an additional twist, you can replace the orange curaçao with blue curaçao, giving the drink a unique color. Fresh and natural ingredients always enhance the taste of this cocktail.
Remember, a well-made Mai Tai balances sweetness, sourness, and the robust flavor of rum. The orgeat syrup adds a touch of almond flavor, making the drink richer and more complex. Whether you’re at a summer party or relaxing by the pool, the Mai Tai is a refreshing choice. Enjoy your drink chilled and garnished perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces white rum
- 3/4 ounce orange curaçao
- 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 ounce orgeat syrup
- 1/2 ounce dark rum
- Lime wheel and mint sprig, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the white rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Float Dark Rum: Gently pour the dark rum over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.
8) Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that’s both simple and delicious. You need just a few ingredients to make this drink. Gather whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Start by adding the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Shake the mixture without ice for about 30 seconds.
Next, add some ice and shake again for another 15-20 seconds. This will chill the drink and blend the flavors. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
For some extra flair, garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. If you like a frothy cocktail, you can include an egg white in the shake. Enjoy your Whiskey Sour!
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Ice
- Optional: 1/2 ounce egg white
- Garnish: maraschino cherry and/or lemon twist
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If using, add the egg white.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously. If using egg white, first “dry shake” without ice to emulsify, then add ice and shake again.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry and/or a lemon twist.
9) Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a timeless cocktail with a simple yet delicious mix. You only need rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. These three ingredients create a perfect balance of sweet and sour.
To make a classic Daiquiri, start by adding 2 ounces of white rum, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 3/4 ounce of simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice. Shake it all together for about 20-30 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
Strain the mixture into a coupe or cocktail glass. You can garnish it with a lime slice for a touch of color.
For a fun twist, try making a frozen Daiquiri. Blend white rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice until smooth.
If you prefer a different flavor, there are many variations. You can make strawberry, mango, or even avocado Daiquiris.
Using high-quality rum can make a big difference in taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- Ice
- Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the white rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wheel.
10) Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail loved by many. It’s made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. This mix creates a drink that’s both strong and smooth.
To make it, start by chilling a glass. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add 2 oz of rye whiskey, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, and three dashes of bitters. Stir well for about 30 seconds until it’s cold.
After stirring, strain the mixture into your chilled glass. The Manhattan is usually garnished with a cherry or a twist of orange peel. Serve it without ice and enjoy the rich, balanced flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces rye whiskey or bourbon
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Maraschino cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Fill the glass with ice.
- Stir: Stir the mixture well until it is thoroughly chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass or a rocks glass with ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
11) Bloody Mary
A Bloody Mary is a classic cocktail known for its rich, savory flavor and its ability to be a perfect brunch companion.
To make a Bloody Mary, start by preparing a highball glass. Wet the rim with a lemon wedge, then dip it in celery salt.
In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and black pepper.
Shake the mixture well until the shaker frosts up, which should take about 20 seconds. Once mixed, fill your prepared glass with ice and strain the cocktail into it.
Garnish with a celery stick, lemon wedge, or even pickles and olives if you like. Be sure to taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.
This savory drink features a balance of spicy, tangy, and salty flavors, making it an enduring favorite.
Enjoy your Bloody Mary with brunch or as a refreshing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces tomato juice
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- 2 dashes hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- Ice
- Garnish: celery stalk, lemon wedge, and olives
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a shaker, combine the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Mix: Roll the mixture back and forth between the shaker and a mixing glass to combine (do not shake vigorously).
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a celery stalk, lemon wedge, and olives.
12) French 75
The French 75 is a classy and refreshing cocktail. It has been popular for almost a century. This drink combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne.
Start with a cocktail shaker. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill it with ice cubes and shake well until chilled.
Next, strain the mixture into a Champagne flute. Top it off with Champagne or sparkling wine.
Finish your French 75 by garnishing with a lemon twist. The result is a fizzy, citrusy cocktail perfect for celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce gin
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 3 ounces Champagne (or other sparkling wine)
- Lemon twist, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a Champagne flute.
- Top with Champagne: Top off with Champagne.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist.
13) Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail known for its refreshing taste and simple ingredients. It is traditionally served in a copper mug, which helps keep the drink cold.
You need vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer to make a Moscow Mule. Start by filling your copper mug with ice.
Pour in 2 ounces of vodka. Add 1 ounce of fresh lime juice. These ingredients create the base of your drink.
Next, fill the rest of the mug with ginger beer. This adds a spicy and fizzy element to the cocktail.
Stir the drink gently to mix the ingredients. Be careful not to stir too much, as this can cause the ginger beer to lose its carbonation.
Garnish your Moscow Mule with a lime wheel. This adds a touch of color and extra flavor.
For variation, you can substitute vodka with other spirits like bourbon, tequila, or gin. Each gives a unique twist to the classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 4 ounces ginger beer
- Lime wedge, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a copper mug or a highball glass, combine the vodka and lime juice. Fill the glass with ice.
- Add Ginger Beer: Pour the ginger beer over the ice and vodka mixture.
- Stir: Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wedge.
14) Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. This refreshing drink combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda.
To make a Tom Collins, start with a collins glass filled with ice. Add 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup.
Stir the mixture well. After that, top it off with club soda, giving it a bubbly and crisp finish. Garnish your drink with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry if you like.
This cocktail is perfect for warm days with its light and citrusy taste. The balance of sweet and sour flavors makes it a favorite among gin lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Club soda, to top
- Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
- Top with Club Soda: Top off with club soda.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry.
15) White Russian
The White Russian is a smooth and creamy cocktail that has been popularized by movies and TV shows. It’s a simple yet rich drink that combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.
To make a White Russian, you need just three ingredients. First, fill an old-fashioned glass with ice cubes. Pour one ounce of vodka over the ice. Then, add one ounce of coffee liqueur, like Kahlúa.
Next, gently float heavy cream on top. Pour the cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. Stir gently to combine the flavors. The cream will make the drink rich and smooth, while the coffee liqueur adds a sweet, robust flavor.
If you want to try variations, there are many creative options. You can blend the drink with milk and peanut butter for a unique twist. Another option is to add flavors like pumpkin spice or peppermint. These variations make the White Russian even more interesting and fun to drink.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with flavors, the White Russian is a delicious and versatile cocktail. It’s perfect for enjoying anytime you want a creamy, flavorful drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce Kahlúa
- 1 ounce heavy cream
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine Vodka and Kahlúa: Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add the vodka and Kahlúa.
- Add Cream: Float the heavy cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Stir If Desired: Stir gently if you prefer a more uniform mixture, or leave it layered.
Understanding Mixed Drinks
Mixed drinks have a vibrant history and are made up of essential ingredients that define their unique flavors. They offer both simplicity and complexity in every sip.
History of Mixed Drinks
Mixed drinks date back to ancient times when people combined various ingredients to create delightful beverages. In the 1800s, the art of cocktail making truly began to flourish. Bartenders began to experiment, leading to a variety of drinks we enjoy today.
Classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Martini became standard. Prohibition in the 1920s also influenced drink recipes, with bartenders using strong flavors to mask the taste of homemade spirits. Today, mixing drinks is both an art and science, appreciated worldwide.
Common Elements in Mixed Drinks
Key ingredients in mixed drinks include spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Spirits like vodka, rum, and gin provide the base. Mixers such as tonic water, soda, or juice add flavor and depth.
Garnishes like lime wedges, mint leaves, and cherries add both flavor and presentation. Simple components can lead to different flavor profiles. Mix all parts together, and you get a drink that is more than the sum of its parts. Remember, the balance of these elements is what makes a mixed drink truly special.
Essential Tools for Making Mixed Drinks
To make great mixed drinks at home, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools help with measuring, mixing, and serving your beverages precisely every time.
Cocktail Shakers
Cocktail shakers are crucial for mixing drinks. The two main types are Boston shakers and Cobbler shakers. Boston shakers consist of two cups, usually metal, and require a separate strainer. They’re popular due to their versatility and capacity. Cobbler shakers come with a built-in strainer and a cap, making them beginner-friendly.
To use a shaker:
- Fill it with ice and ingredients.
- Shake vigorously.
- Strain the drink into a glass.
Having a good shaker ensures your cocktails are well-mixed and chilled.
Mixing Glasses
Mixing glasses are necessary for stirred cocktails. They’re typically made of glass and have a wide mouth, making them easy to stir without spilling. A mixing glass is best for drinks like martinis and manhattans that don’t need aggressive shaking.
To use a mixing glass:
- Add ice and ingredients.
- Stir with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds.
- Strain into a serving glass using a strainer, like a Julep strainer.
Mixing glasses help maintain the drink’s texture and clarity.
Measuring Tools
Accurate measurement is key to consistent and balanced cocktails. Common measuring tools include a jigger and a measuring cup. A jigger often has two sides, usually measuring 1 ounce and 1.5 ounces, making it easy to pour precise amounts.
To use a jigger:
- Fill it to the desired measurement line.
- Pour into your shaker or mixing glass.
Alternatively, a measuring cup can be used for larger quantities or more precise measurements. Always measure your ingredients to ensure the flavors are balanced and your drinks are perfect every time.
Accurate measuring ensures your mixed drinks are consistent and flavorful.
