Summer’s here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a glass of something cool, colorful, and utterly refreshing? Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging by the pool, or just dreaming of a tropical getaway, our roundup of 18 Refreshing Cocktail Drink Recipes for Summer has the perfect sip for every occasion. Dive in and discover your new favorite summer drink!
Mojito
Zesty and refreshing, this Mojito recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful escape. **Mix, muddle, and sip** your way to paradise with just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- For the Mojito:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup club soda
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 1 lime wheel
- 1 sprig fresh mint
Instructions
- In a sturdy glass, add the mint leaves and sugar. **Muddle gently** to release the mint’s oils without tearing the leaves.
- Pour in the lime juice and white rum. **Stir well** to dissolve the sugar.
- Fill the glass **three-quarters full** with ice cubes. **Top with club soda** and give it a light stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint. **Serve immediately** with a straw.
Your Mojito should be **crisp, slightly sweet, and bursting with minty freshness**. For a twist, try freezing lime juice into ice cubes for an extra punch of flavor as they melt.
Margarita
Boldly shake up your cocktail game with this classic Margarita—crisp, tangy, and perfectly balanced. No frills, just the real deal that’ll transport you to a sunny beach with every sip.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz triple sec
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- For the garnish:
- Lime wedge
- Coarse salt
Instructions
- Rim a chilled margarita glass with a lime wedge and dip it into coarse salt to coat the edge.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds—until the shaker feels frosty.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim for that extra zesty flair.
Vibrant and refreshing, this Margarita boasts a smooth blend of sweet and sour with a salty kick. Serve it alongside spicy tacos or enjoy it solo as the ultimate happy hour treat.
Piña Colada
Nothing beats the tropical vibes of a Piña Colada—blend, sip, and transport yourself to paradise.
Ingredients
- For the drink:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup cream of coconut
- 1/2 cup white rum
- 1 cup ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 1 pineapple slice
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Add 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup cream of coconut, 1/2 cup white rum, and 1 cup ice cubes to a blender.
- Blend on high speed for 30 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Tip: For a thicker consistency, add more ice.
- Pour the blended mixture into a chilled glass. Tip: Freeze the glass beforehand for an extra frosty experience.
- Garnish with 1 pineapple slice and 1 maraschino cherry on the rim of the glass. Tip: Use a toothpick to secure the cherry on top of the pineapple slice for a fancy touch.
Blend up this creamy, dreamy cocktail for a sweet escape. The smooth texture and tropical flavors pair perfectly with a sunset view or a poolside lounge. Try serving it in a hollowed-out pineapple for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Daiquiri
Craving a tropical escape? This Daiquiri recipe is your ticket to paradise—no passport needed. Blend, sip, and repeat for instant vacation vibes.
Ingredients
- For the daiquiri:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 cup ice
Instructions
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer for 5 minutes to ensure it’s frosty.
- In a shaker, combine 2 oz white rum, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with 1 cup ice, securing the lid tightly.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds—this chills the drink and dilutes it slightly for balance.
- Strain the mixture into the chilled glass, avoiding any ice shards for a smooth sip.
- Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim for a fresh, zesty finish.
Done right, this Daiquiri is a crisp, refreshing balance of sweet and sour with a smooth finish. Serve it poolside or jazz it up with a splash of fruit puree for a colorful twist.
Cosmopolitan
Just when you thought cocktail hour couldn’t get any better, the Cosmopolitan struts in. This iconic drink blends tart, sweet, and strong into one sleek glass—perfect for sipping or snapping.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 0.5 oz triple sec
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 cup ice
- For garnish:
- 1 lime wheel
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice to chill it while you gather your ingredients.
- Pour 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 0.5 oz triple sec, and 0.5 oz fresh lime juice into the shaker.
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds—this chills the drink and dilutes it slightly for balance.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass for that classic Cosmopolitan look.
- Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim of the glass for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
This Cosmopolitan is a vibrant dance of flavors—tart cranberry, zesty lime, and smooth vodka. Serve it at your next gathering with a side of confidence, or enjoy it solo as a bold nightcap.
Bloody Mary
Crack open the weekend with a Bloody Mary that’s bold, spicy, and utterly refreshing. This classic cocktail packs a punch with its rich tomato base and a kick of vodka, perfect for brunch or a late-afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 3 oz tomato juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- 2 dashes hot sauce
- 0.5 tsp horseradish
- Pinch of celery salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 lemon wedge
- 1 green olive
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes to chill it, then discard the ice.
- Add 1.5 oz vodka, 3 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz lemon juice, 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 2 dashes hot sauce, 0.5 tsp horseradish, a pinch of celery salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with 1 celery stalk, 1 lemon wedge, and 1 green olive on a skewer.
- Serve immediately with a straw for stirring.
Zesty and vibrant, this Bloody Mary is a symphony of flavors with a spicy finish. Elevate it by rimming the glass with smoked salt or adding a crispy bacon strip for a savory twist.
Martini
Shake up your evening with a classic Martini—crisp, clean, and effortlessly cool. This iconic cocktail is all about precision and flair, turning simple ingredients into a sip of sophistication.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 2 1/2 oz gin or vodka
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 1 lemon twist or olive
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice cubes to chill the glass while you prepare the cocktail.
- Pour 2 1/2 oz of gin or vodka and 1/2 oz of dry vermouth over the ice in the mixing glass.
- Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors without diluting the cocktail too much. Tip: Stirring, not shaking, keeps the Martini clear and smooth.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled Martini glass to serve it at the perfect temperature. Tip: Chill the glass in the freezer for 10 minutes beforehand for an extra crisp sip.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or olive on the rim or dropped into the glass. Tip: Express the lemon twist over the drink to release its oils for an aromatic finish.
Perfectly balanced, this Martini offers a silky texture with a sharp, botanical bite. Serve it alongside salty snacks to complement its dry profile, or enjoy it as a standalone aperitif to kick off your night.
Old Fashioned
Skip the fancy mixers—**this Old Fashioned** is all about bold, simple flavors that pack a punch. Stir up nostalgia with every sip.
Ingredients
- For the drink:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 1 maraschino cherry
- 1 large ice cube
Instructions
- **Place** the large ice cube in a rocks glass to chill it while you prepare the drink.
- **Add** the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- **Stir** the mixture for about 30 seconds until well-chilled. Tip: Stirring, not shaking, preserves the bourbon’s smooth texture.
- **Strain** the mixture over the ice cube in the prepared rocks glass.
- **Express** the orange peel over the drink by twisting it to release the oils, then rub it around the rim of the glass before dropping it in. Tip: The oils add a bright, citrusy aroma that elevates the drink.
- **Garnish** with the maraschino cherry on a skewer or simply drop it in. Tip: A high-quality cherry makes a difference—opt for Luxardo or homemade.
**Luxuriate** in the smooth, rich flavors of bourbon softened by a hint of sweetness and aromatic bitters. Serve it with a side of dark chocolate to complement the depth of the drink.
Whiskey Sour
Let’s shake up your cocktail game with a classic Whiskey Sour—bold, tangy, and irresistibly smooth.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional for froth)
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 1 maraschino cherry
- 1 orange slice
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill it, then discard the ice.
- Add 2 oz bourbon whiskey, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, 1/2 oz simple syrup, and 1 egg white to the shaker.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add fresh ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10 seconds to chill the mixture.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with 1 maraschino cherry and 1 orange slice on the rim of the glass.
Whiskey Sour dazzles with its perfect balance of sweet and sour, topped with a silky froth. Serve it at your next brunch for a chic twist or enjoy it as a sophisticated nightcap.
Manhattan
Transform your cocktail game with the Manhattan—a timeless blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters that’s all about bold flavors and smooth sips.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice cubes to chill the ingredients properly.
- Pour 2 oz of rye whiskey, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters into the mixing glass.
- Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until well-chilled; this ensures the perfect dilution and temperature.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry on a skewer or drop it directly into the glass for a pop of color and sweetness.
Perfectly balanced, the Manhattan offers a silky texture with a complex interplay of sweet and spicy notes. Serve it with a twist by expressing an orange peel over the glass to add a citrusy aroma.
Negroni
Just when you thought cocktails couldn’t get cooler, the Negroni struts in. Bold, bitter, and unapologetically boozy, it’s the three-ingredient wonder that’s shaking up happy hours everywhere.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- For garnish:
- 1 orange peel
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice to chill it, then discard the ice.
- Pour 1 oz gin, 1 oz Campari, and 1 oz sweet vermouth into the chilled mixing glass.
- Stir the mixture for 30 seconds to properly dilute and chill the cocktail without over-diluting.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by twisting it, then drop it in as garnish.
Done right, this Negroni is a symphony of flavors—herbal, citrusy, and just sweet enough. Try serving it with a side of salty snacks to balance the bitterness, or go bold with a dark chocolate pairing.
Espresso Martini
Ready to shake up your night? The Espresso Martini blends bold coffee flavors with a smooth vodka kick—perfect for sipping or slamming.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz fresh espresso, cooled
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- 3 coffee beans
Instructions
- Chill a martini glass by filling it with ice and water. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes to the top.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
- Empty the ice water from the martini glass and strain the cocktail into it.
- Garnish with 3 coffee beans on top for a classic finish.
Bold and creamy, this Espresso Martini packs a caffeinated punch with a velvety texture. Serve it in a chilled glass for an extra touch of elegance or pair with dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
French 75
Vibrant and vivacious, the French 75 cocktail is your go-to for a sparkling, citrusy kick. Mix gin, lemon, and sugar, then top with champagne for a drink that’s as bold as it is bubbly.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 1 oz gin
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz champagne
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- Lemon twist
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill it, then discard the ice.
- Add 1 oz gin, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top with 2 oz champagne, pouring slowly to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon twist by twisting it over the drink to release the oils, then placing it on the rim.
Unbelievably crisp and refreshing, the French 75 balances tart lemon with sweet bubbles. Serve it at brunch for a luxurious touch or as a celebratory toast—its effervescence is always a showstopper.
Gin and Tonic
Overwhelmed by the week? Shake off the stress with a crisp, refreshing Gin and Tonic—your go-to for instant relaxation.
Ingredients
- For the drink:
- 2 oz gin
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1 lime wedge
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays chilled without diluting too quickly.
- Pour 2 oz of gin over the ice, using a jigger for precision—this balances the drink perfectly.
- Squeeze a lime wedge into the glass, then drop it in for a zesty aroma and a hint of acidity.
- Top with 4 oz of tonic water, pouring slowly to preserve the bubbles for that signature effervescence.
- Give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon to mix the flavors without losing the carbonation.
Light, bubbly, and with a botanical kick, this Gin and Tonic is a classic that never disappoints. Serve it with a side of salted nuts or a spicy snack to contrast the crispness.
Vodka Cranberry
Pour yourself a glass of fun with this Vodka Cranberry—simple, sleek, and seriously sippable. Perfect for those who love a drink that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients
- For the drink:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- Ice cubes
- For garnish (optional):
- Lime wedge
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to the top.
- Pour 2 oz of vodka over the ice.
- Add 4 oz of cranberry juice to the glass.
- Squeeze in 1/2 oz of lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Stir the mixture gently with a spoon to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a few fresh cranberries on a skewer for an Instagram-worthy touch.
Now, the Vodka Cranberry is ready to dazzle with its vibrant color and refreshing taste. Not too sweet, not too tart—just right. Serve it at your next brunch or as a chic evening aperitif.
Rum Punch
Overflowing with tropical vibes, this Rum Punch is your ticket to paradise. Mix, pour, and sip your way to bliss with just a few bold moves.
Ingredients
- For the punch:
- 2 cups dark rum
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup grenadine
- 2 tbsp simple syrup
- For garnish:
- Orange slices
- Pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine 2 cups dark rum, 1 cup orange juice, 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup grenadine, and 2 tbsp simple syrup.
- Stir the mixture vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well blended.
- Fill glasses halfway with ice cubes to keep the punch chilled without diluting it too quickly.
- Pour the rum punch over the ice, leaving a little space at the top for garnish.
- Garnish each glass with an orange slice, pineapple slice, and a maraschino cherry on a skewer for a tropical touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors and colors of your homemade Rum Punch.
Kick back and savor the sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy notes of this crowd-pleaser. Perfect for sipping under the sun or as a festive centerpiece at your next gathering.
Tequila Sunrise
Bold flavors and vibrant colors make this Tequila Sunrise a showstopper. Mix it up in minutes for a drink that’s as fun to make as it is to sip.
Ingredients
- For the drink:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4 oz orange juice
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- Ice cubes
- For garnish:
- Orange slice
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to the top.
- Pour 2 oz of tequila over the ice.
- Add 4 oz of orange juice to the glass, stirring gently to mix with the tequila.
- Slowly pour 1/2 oz of grenadine into the glass. Let it settle at the bottom for the sunrise effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry on the rim.
- Serve immediately with a straw for stirring before drinking.
Rich layers of sweet and citrus flavors make every sip a delight. Try serving it with a mini umbrella for that extra tropical vibe.
Long Island Iced Tea
Dive into the bold, boozy world of the Long Island Iced Tea—a cocktail that packs a punch with its deceptive simplicity and powerhouse lineup of spirits.
Ingredients
- For the cocktail:
- 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz tequila
- 1/2 oz rum
- 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Cola, to top
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill it while you gather your ingredients.
- Add vodka, tequila, rum, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients thoroughly.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice, leaving room at the top.
- Top with a splash of cola for that signature tea-like color and a hint of sweetness.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge or mint sprig for an Instagram-worthy finish.
Whisk your way to cocktail hour with this Long Island Iced Tea—its smooth, citrusy kick and fizzy finish make it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it in mason jars for a rustic twist or with a striped straw for a retro vibe.
Conclusion
We hope these 18 refreshing cocktail recipes inspire your summer gatherings! Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, there’s a drink here for every occasion. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-make recipes on Pinterest. Cheers to a deliciously cool summer!