Making easy cocktails at home is simple and quick. With just a few ingredients and the right recipes, you can whip up a tasty drink in no time.
Whether it’s a sunny summer day or a cozy Christmas evening, there’s a drink for every occasion. We’ve all been to parties where vodka, whiskey, tequila, rum, and bourbon are the stars of the show. But guess what? You don’t need to be a professional bartender to whip up popular drinks. With just 2 or 3 ingredients, you can already create simple cocktails that are fun to make at home in a batch and order when you’re out. Do you want to treat yourself or your guests to a fancy drink but don’t feel like complicated preparations? These are our favorite easy cocktails and recipes:
30 Best Easy cocktails and drinks
Mimosa
The Mimosa is a bubbly and refreshing drink, perfect for a sunny brunch or morning celebrations. Named after the bright yellow mimosa flower, this cocktail originated in France and traveled its way to become a breakfast favorite in America. Commonly served in tall flute glasses, Mimosas are especially popular at events like bridal showers and Sunday brunches.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that combines the warmth of whiskey with the tangy kick of fresh lemon juice. This drink dates back to the 1800s and was often enjoyed by sailors to prevent scurvy, thanks to the vitamin C in the lemon juice. Its balanced flavors make it a go-to for many on a chilly evening by the fireplace or at a laid-back bar with friends.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule, despite its name, didn’t originate from Moscow but from Los Angeles in the 1940s. Its name is a playful nod to the vodka many associate with Russia. It’s served in a distinctive copper mug and offers a spicy kick from the ginger beer and a tart finish from the lime. It’s a popular choice at summer BBQs, offering a cool, refreshing sip to beat the heat.
Tequila Sunrise
With its vibrant layers resembling a sunrise, the Tequila Sunrise is as visually appealing as it is tasty. This cocktail originates from the 1930s and gets its signature look from the grenadine, which settles at the bottom, creating a sunrise effect. The fruity blend of orange juice and the boldness of tequila make it a popular pick for tropical beach vacations or hot-weather pool parties.
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri, named after a small town in Cuba, is a timeless cocktail enjoyed for over a century. It’s said that American engineers working in Daiquiri during the Spanish-American War created this drink to combat the local heat. This classic blend of rum and lime offers a crisp and tangy flavor profile. Its refreshing taste makes it perfect for sipping under a sunshade at the beach or while lounging by the pool.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is old-fashioned, tracing its origins to the early 19th century. Often referred to as the granddaddy of all cocktails, it’s a sophisticated mix that’s stood the test of time. With its strong character, enhanced by the aromatic bitters and a hint of sweetness, it’s a preferred choice for many during upscale dinner parties or a reflective evening at a classic jazz bar.
Martini
The Martini stands for cocktail elegance, often associated with suave figures like James Bond, who famously prefers his “shaken, not stirred.” While its origins are debated, some believe it evolved from a drink called the Martinez served in the early 1860s in San Francisco. With its clean, crisp flavors, the Martini is a sophisticated choice, perfect for high-end cocktail parties or a ritzy night out at an upscale lounge.
Bellini
The Bellini from Venice, Italy, was born mid-20th century at the legendary Harry’s Bar. Its creator, Giuseppe Cipriani, was inspired by the pink hues in a painting by 15th-century Venetian artist Giovanni Bellini, hence the drink’s artistic name. The bubbly Prosecco and sweet peach purée mix makes the Bellini a brunch favorite, often enjoyed on lazy Sundays or during celebratory toasts.
Dark ‘n Stormy
The Dark ‘n Stormy is a cocktail with a tempestuous name that captures its bold flavors and appearance. This drink finds its roots in Bermuda, where the mix of locally produced dark rum and spicy ginger beer became an instant classic. The deep, rich color of the rum contrasting with the fizzy ginger beer resembles stormy ocean waves. Ideal for storm-watching on a beachfront porch or for a lively Caribbean-themed party, this cocktail promises a splash of adventure in every sip.
Check our page about dark liquors.
Paloma
The Paloma, which means “dove” in Spanish, is a vibrant cocktail from Mexico. It’s often considered the underrated cousin of the Margarita, even though it’s even more beloved in many parts of Mexico! Combining the spirited kick of tequila with the tangy and slightly bitter taste of grapefruit soda, the Paloma is refreshing and effervescent. This cocktail captures the essence of a Mexican summer, perfect for sunny fiestas or a relaxing evening on a beachside hammock.
White Russian
Despite its name, the White Russian isn’t directly linked to Russia but gets its moniker from vodka, one of its main ingredients. Popularized in the 1960s and further immortalized by the film “The Big Lebowski,” this creamy cocktail is a delightful blend of smooth vodka, rich coffee liqueur, and velvety cream. Whether cozying up for movie night at home or sitting by a fireplace in a ski lodge, the White Russian provides a comforting and indulgent sip.
Rum and Coke
Rum and Coke, often called a “Cuba Libre” when paired with a lime wedge, is a simple cocktail. It’s believed to have roots in Cuba during the American-Spanish War in the early 20th century. The fusion of the deep flavors of rum with the sweet fizziness of cola creates a delightful drink. Whether at a beach party or a backyard get-together, it’s a favorite for many looking for a sweet and spirited beverage.
Gin and Tonic
The Gin and Tonic is a classic British cocktail with a fascinating history. The British troops in India started drinking tonic water as a malaria preventative because it contains quinine. Adding gin made the tonic water palatable; thus, the Gin and Tonic was born! Its light and refreshing taste makes it ideal for a sunny patio afternoon or a relaxing rooftop bar evening. This is the ultimate easy cocktail for beginners.
Sea Breeze Drink
The Seabreeze Drink is like a breath of fresh ocean air in a glass. Hailing from the post-Prohibition era in the United States, this cocktail combines the clean taste of vodka with the tartness of cranberry and the zesty kick of grapefruit. Its vibrant hues and refreshing flavor profile evoke images of sun-soaked beaches and gentle waves. It’s perfect for a house party or a relaxing afternoon on the deck, feeling the ocean’s breeze.
Salty Dog
The Salty Dog is a zesty cocktail with a hint of seaside flair, thanks to its signature salted rim. It’s a close cousin of the Greyhound cocktail, but adding salt gives it its distinct character and name. The blend of gin (or vodka) with the tangy grapefruit juice, complemented by the salt, creates a harmonious balance of flavors. This drink is ideal for a sunny barbecue, evoking memories of salty sea air and coastal adventures.
Ranch Water
Despite its rustic name, Ranch Water is a refined and easy cocktail from West Texas. Legend has it that ranchers in the hot Texan desert sipped this to quench their thirst after a long day. With the boldness of tequila, the zest of lime, and the effervescence of sparkling mineral water, Ranch Water offers a crisp and invigorating taste. It’s the go-to drink for hot summer days, whether you’re by the pool or enjoying a Texan sunset on a ranch’s porch.
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a radiant and bubbly cocktail that embodies the spirit of Italian “la dolce vita” or “the sweet life.” Originating from the Veneto region, this drink became a signature pre-dinner or “aperitivo” beverage across Italy. With its enticing orange hue and the perfect balance of bittersweet Aperol and sparkling Prosecco, the Aperol Spritz is like a sunset in a glass. It’s the quintessential drink for a lazy summer afternoon in a European piazza or your backyard.
Gin Rickey
The Gin Rickey, a classic cocktail with roots in Washington, D.C., dates back to the late 19th century. It was once called the “air conditioning in a glass” because of its refreshing qualities. Combining the aromatic essence of gin, the zing of fresh lime juice, and the effervescence of club soda, the Gin Rickey is both zesty and invigorating. It’s ideal for a garden party or cooling off on a hot city afternoon.
Gin Fizz
The Gin Fizz cocktail has been beloved since the 19th century and is closely associated with New Orleans. Thanks to the optional egg white, this drink is known for its creamy frothiness. When shaken, the gin, lemon, and egg white mix creates a velvety texture complemented by the fizz from club soda. This drink is perfect for brunch or an evening soiree, adding a touch of vintage charm to any occasion.
Sidecar
The Sidecar is a timeless cocktail that transports drinkers back to the glitz and glamor of 1920s Paris. It’s believed to have been created for an American army captain who arrived at a Parisian bar in the sidecar of a motorcycle. Combining the warmth of cognac with the citrusy zing of Cointreau and lemon juice, the Sidecar is a sophisticated blend of sweet and sour. Perfect for elegant soirées or jazz-themed nights, it’s a cocktail that exudes classic charm.
Gimlet
The Gimlet is a crisp and refreshing drink, originally seen as a medicinal remedy for British sailors to prevent scurvy, thanks to the vitamin C in lime juice. Today, its blend of aromatic gin with zesty lime offers a delightful tanginess that’s both simple and invigorating. The Gimlet is a top pick for a warm evening on a rooftop bar or when hosting a minimalist-themed cocktail party.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is often dubbed the “cousin” of the Negroni, with a Parisian twist. While it mirrors the Negroni’s bittersweet allure, it uses whiskey instead of gin. Named after the term for a man-about-town, the Boulevardier speaks of sophistication and timeless elegance. With the warmth of whiskey blending seamlessly with the bittersweetness of Campari and vermouth, this drink is perfect for cozying up in a classy jazz bar and a favorite of many bartenders.
Clover Club Cocktail
The Clover Club Cocktail hails from the pre-Prohibition era and represents the golden age of cocktail craftsmanship. Named after a men’s club in Philadelphia that met at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, this drink combines the botanicals of gin, the tartness of lemon, the sweetness of raspberry, and the frothy texture of egg white. Its velvety smoothness and vibrant pink hue make it a standout choice for elegant garden parties or any soirée with vintage glamour.
Mezcal Margarita
The Mezcal Margarita is a smoky twist on the classic Margarita. While traditional Margaritas employ tequila, this variant uses mezcal, an agave-based spirit known for its rich, smoky undertones. This cocktail effortlessly marries the earthy depth of mezcal with the tangy zest of lime, creating a dance of flavors on the palate. Whether watching a sunset on a Mexican beach or just yearning for a taste of Oaxaca at home, the Mezcal Margarita brings rustic sophistication to any occasion.
Pimm’s Cup
The Pimm’s Cup is synonymous with British summer and the world-famous Wimbledon tennis championships. Originating in the mid-1800s, it was created by James Pimm, a London oyster bar owner, as a tonic to aid digestion. The dark, fruity essence of Pimm’s No. 1 combined with refreshing lemonade and a medley of fresh fruits and mint make it a deliciously quenching beverage. The Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing journey through British summertime traditions, perfect for garden parties, picnics, or any sunny afternoon.
Bramble
The Bramble is a modern classic created in the 1980s in London, capturing the essence of British hedgerows. This cocktail shines a spotlight on the delightful combination of dry gin and sweet blackberry liqueur, offset by the tartness of fresh lemon juice. With its deep red hue and layered presentation, the Bramble evokes images of wandering through wild berry thickets on a late summer’s day. Whether you’re at a trendy city bar or hosting a weekend brunch, the Bramble brings a taste of the English countryside to your glass.
Whiskey Highball
The Whisky Highball is a cocktail showcasing simplicity. It’s very popular in Japan and combines the depth of whisky with the fizzy lightness of soda. The result is a harmonious balance that enhances the whisky’s flavors without overpowering them. Ideal for a quiet evening by the fireplace or for casual gatherings with friends.
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail and perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of its festivals and beaches. Made with cachaça, a distinctive Brazilian spirit distilled from sugarcane juice, this cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spirited flavors. The muddled lime and sugar give it a refreshing zest, making it the ideal choice for samba-filled nights or sunny afternoons by the Copacabana.
Negroni
The Negroni is an Italian classic of aperitivo culture and la dolce vita. Legend has it that Count Camillo Negroni wanted a stronger take on his usual cocktail, and thus, the Negroni was born. With equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it offers a bittersweet symphony that is both sophisticated and captivating. Perfect for a refined evening on a Roman terrace or before a sumptuous dinner, the Negroni is a cocktail that demands to be savored.
Greyhound Drink
The Greyhound drink is an easy yet refreshing cocktail that dates back to the 1930s. This cocktail offers a crisp and citrusy sip, a delightful mix of vodka or gin with tangy grapefruit juice. The famous bus line might have inspired its name, suggesting a straightforward journey with no frills. Ideal for brunches or picnics in the park, the Greyhound is a straightforward drink that always delivers on taste.
More drinks to make at home can be found on our mixed drinks page.
More Easy cocktails to make at home
Check out our list of easy-to-make cocktails for home mixing, perfect if you want simple yet tasty drinks:
Easy vodka cocktails
