Scorching summer temperatures call for batch of refreshing drinks. Whether enjoyed poolside, lakeside, or on the front porch, fresh and flavorful cocktails can help you cool off and beat the heat. Incorporate the season’s freshest produce into your beverages, like Peach Mojitos and Honeysuckle-Watermelon Cocktails. Throwing a backyard barbecue? These recipes can easily be doubled or tripled for hosting a crowd. Make a batch or two of these crowd-pleasing drink recipes along with these party-perfect appetizers, which will carry you from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Watermelon Bellini
Recipe: Watermelon Bellini
Try this twist on a usual Bellini by incorporating seedless watermelon. You could also make this refreshing beverage with another summer melon.
Papaya-Strawberry Cocktail
Recipe: Papaya-Strawberry Cocktail
Serve a cocktail filled with bright summer flavor at an outdoor fiesta. A favorite of San Antonio chef Johnny Hernandaz, this drink is best served over ice and garnished with orange slices and mint leaves.
Fig-and-Bourbon Fizz
Recipe: Fig-and-Bourbon Fizz
Make the most of fig season by muddling the seasonal fruit and combining it with bourbon, brown sugar, and ginger ale.
Big Batch Mint Tea Juleps
Recipe: Big Batch Mint Tea Juleps
Save on party prep time by stirring up a large pitcher of Big Batch Mint Tea Juleps. Serve it at your next Derby party or outdoor summer get-together.
Peach Mojitos
Recipe: Peach Mojitos
Visit the farmers’ market for a basket of ripe peaches. This combination of sweet peaches and fresh mint will be your go-to summer drink.
Pink Cadillac Margaritas
Recipe: Pink Cadillac Margaritas
Make a batch of festive, bright pink margaritas for your next taco party. Watch our how-to video for easy, step-by-step instructions.
Strawberry Margarita Spritzers
Recipe: Strawberry Margarita Spritzers
Beat the heat with this colorful cocktail. Daiquiri mix adds takes its fruity flavor to the next level.
Tequila Mojitos
Recipe: Tequila Mojitos
Guests will love this riff on a summer classic. Make the simply syrup the night before, and quickly whip up this crowd-pleasing cocktail before company arrives. Follow our how-to for perfecting the recipe.
Sweet Tea Spritzer
Recipe: Sweet Tea Spritzer
An addition of cranberry juice adds more fruity flavor to this spiked Arnold Palmer.
Frozen Sangría
Recipe: Frozen Sangría
Cool off with this cost-efficient, four-ingredient drink. Make it kid friendly by swapping the sangría for cranberry juice.
Cajun Lemonade
Recipe: Cajun Lemonade
Liven up traditional lemonade with rum and a teaspoon of Tabasco.
Honeysuckle-Watermelon Cocktails
Recipe: Honeysuckle-Watermelon Cocktails
What says summer more than fresh watermelon juice? Top it off with honeysuckle vodka, lemon-lime soda, and mint for a thirst-quenching cocktail.
