Cocktails are one of the best parts of summer. From fruity to refreshing, there’s an endless supply of delicious new flavors waiting to be explored. Though there’s nothing wrong with a classic summer drink like a Pina Colada, sometimes you want to mix things up. These 10 best summer cocktails include a mix of summertime classics and recipes that mix things up with fun, unique flavors and Instagram-worthy colors.
Not only do these drinks taste delicious while sitting poolside, but they’re a blast to make. Below, check out 10 of the best summer cocktails that will quickly become some of your go-tos during the warm weather months.
1 – Hurricane
The “hurricane” seems appropriate for summer, perfect for a balanced blend of tartness and sweetness. It is a classic grenadine cocktail that takes only five minutes to whip up. The hurricane uses a mix of white, dark, and white rum as its foundation, then adds passion fruit puree, orange juice, lime juice, grenadine, and simple syrup for a New Orleans classic that can be enjoyed anywhere. For a colder twist, you can also add ice to this drink to make a frozen-inspired Hurricane.
2 – Mai Tai
The Mai Tai also makes the list of 10 best summer cocktails, delivering a sweet flavor that is familiar to most. Though you may have run into the Mai Tai at a bar in San Francisco or Hawaii, this classic cocktail is easy to whip up at home, too. To make a Mai Tai, you’ll need only a few basic ingredients: fresh-squeezed lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat, simple syrup, and rum. The orgeat is what gives the classic Mai Tai its slightly nutty and almond-like taste.
3 – Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz will make you feel like you’re on a beach in Italy even while you’re at home. This refreshing classic combines Prosecco wine and Aperol liqueur for a fruity, light cocktail that won’t make you feel bogged down in the summer heat. Complete with a splash of soda water, the Aperol Spritz looks fancy yet is simple to make, requiring only four ingredients.
4 – Peach Bellini
Summertime is the perfect season for enjoying peach flavor, and there’s no better way to do so than in a delicious peach bellini. Whether enjoyed as a bubbly alternative to a mimosa at Sunday brunch or as an afternoon refreshment, this blend of sparkling wine and peach is both summery and refreshing. Even better, the peach bellini contains only two ingredients: peach puree and chilled prosecco.
5 – Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is another classic summertime cocktail, perfect for summertime breakfast and brunch gatherings. This bold drink is either loved or hated by most people. If you’re looking for an alternative to sugary summer cocktails, don’t forget to add the classic Bloody Mary to your list.
6 – Swimming Pool Cocktail
For those who are getting tired of the “same old, same old” summer cocktails, consider the Swimming Pool Cocktail. The name itself screams “summertime,” featuring a blend of both rum and vodka. With a splash of Blue Curaçao and a dash of sweetened, condensed milk or cream, this drink is great when you’re craving something both sweet and creamy.
7 – Spicy Margarita
Summertime drinks are often fruity and sweet, but the Spicy Margarita can be a refreshing twist, too. Made with blanco tequila, orange liqueur, freshly squeezed lime, and agave syrup, the drink itself is not overly spicy. Yet, the addition of the jalapeño slices gives this drink a spicy kick, which pairs perfectly with a poolside chips and salsa snack.
8 – Tequila Sunrise
If you’re already on a tequila kick, consider the Tequila Sunrise another best summertime cocktail. This sweet and fruity classic cocktail not only tastes delicious but also looks like a sunrise in the glass. (Did you know this drink was named after its appearance?) To make this drink, all you’ll need is tequila, orange juice, grenadine, and some orange slices for garnishing.
9 – Shirley Temple Cocktail
The Shirley Temple Cocktail is often forgotten, though it is a classic that still deserves the spotlight all summer long. Though it is often ordered as a mocktail, its alcoholic version contains just three ingredients: ginger ale, grenadine, and Maraschino cherries. The sweetened pomegranate flavor of a Shirley Temple is nostalgic, with just the right hint of sweetness.
10 – Mojito
The minty taste of a Mojito is so refreshing after a long day in the summer sun. This best summer cocktail is a long-time favorite with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century in Cuba, where the drink was originally used as a medicinal remedy. Today, the Mojito is a fun cocktail that combines sweet and sour flavors using white rum, sugar, lime juice, mint leaves, and soda water.
Sip Into Summer: Your Cocktail Adventure Starts Here
Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or seriously refreshing, these 10 summer cocktails are sure to hit the spot. From frozen Hurricanes to zesty Spicy Margaritas, there’s a drink for every mood and moment. So grab your shaker, stock up on fresh ingredients, and start experimenting!
Want more unique recipes, flavor inspiration, and drink guides? Head to FlavorFix.com and make every sip this summer one to remember.
