Planning a party and want to serve some classic cocktails without needing a fully stocked bar? These popular, easy-to-make drinks use common ingredients and are perfect for any special occasion – you won’t need a wall full of spirit bottles or a 56-bottle wine rack to make these favourites for your guests. Organized here by the main spirit, you can easily decide what to mix based on what you have on hand. These are some crowd-pleasing cocktails to elevate any house party or get-together.
Vodka Cocktails
Vodka is a versatile base spirit that pairs well with a range of mixers. Here are some simple vodka cocktails that can be mixed in a matter of minutes:
- Vodka Cranberry (Cape Codder): This is a refreshing drink that only requires vodka, cranberry juice, and a lime wedge. Just fill a glass with ice, pour in the vodka, top with cranberry juice, and squeeze in a lime wedge for added zest. It’s tangy, light, and perfect for those who prefer a fruity cocktail.
- Moscow Mule: This trendy drink is usually served in a copper mug, but any glass will do. To make a Moscow Mule, combine vodka and the juice of half a lime, then top with ginger beer for a spicy-sweet fizz. Stir to combine, and your mule is ready to enjoy.
- Screwdriver: If you’re looking for something simple and sweet, a Screwdriver is an ideal choice. Pour vodka over ice, top with orange juice, and give it a quick stir. The bright citrus notes make this drink easy to sip and perfect for any time of day.
Rum Cocktails
Rum adds a tropical twist to cocktails, making it a great choice for parties. Here are some popular rum-based drinks:
- Cuba Libre: This cocktail is essentially a rum and cola with a twist of lime. Pour rum over ice, add cola, and squeeze in fresh lime juice. It’s an easy and familiar drink that’s sure to be a hit.
- Daiquiri (Simple Version): While daiquiris are often blended, a basic version can be made with just rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake the ingredients with ice, then strain into a glass for a refreshing, citrusy cocktail. If you don’t have simple syrup, stirring sugar into lime juice works in a pinch.
- Rum Punch: For a drink that feels like a vacation in a glass, try a Rum Punch. This cocktail combines rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and a dash of grenadine for a touch of color and sweetness. Mix everything in a glass with ice, and you’ve got a tropical treat.
Tequila Cocktails
Tequila-based cocktails are often lively and full of flavor, perfect for setting a fun party atmosphere.
- Classic Margarita: Margaritas are always a crowd-pleaser. To make one, shake tequila, lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur or orange juice with ice. Strain into a glass with a salted rim, and you’ve got a classic cocktail that’s tart and delicious.
- Tequila Sunrise: For a visually stunning drink, try a Tequila Sunrise. Pour tequila over ice, top with orange juice, and add a splash of grenadine. The grenadine will slowly sink, creating a beautiful “sunrise” effect.
- Paloma: For a refreshing and slightly bitter cocktail, the Paloma is an excellent choice. This drink combines tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda or juice. Serve over ice, and enjoy the crisp, citrusy flavors.
Gin Cocktails
Gin’s herbal notes make it a fantastic base for light and refreshing cocktails. Here are a few gin classics:
- Gin and Tonic: This simple cocktail is a timeless favorite. Just pour gin over ice, top with tonic water, and garnish with a slice of lime or cucumber. The bitterness of the tonic complements the botanicals in the gin for a balanced and refreshing drink.
- Tom Collins: A Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail that’s both sweet and tart. Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, strain into a glass with ice, and top with soda water. It’s fizzy and refreshing, perfect for warm weather or a relaxed evening.
- Negroni: For something a bit bolder, try a Negroni. This cocktail mixes equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari for a rich, bittersweet drink. Serve over ice and garnish with an orange slice for a touch of brightness.
Whiskey Cocktails
Whiskey brings warmth and complexity to cocktails, making it a great choice for those who enjoy bold flavors.
- Whiskey Sour: A Whiskey Sour is a classic that balances whiskey’s warmth with the tartness of lemon juice and a touch of sweetness. Shake whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain into a glass with ice. It’s simple but full of flavor.
- Old Fashioned: This iconic cocktail is rich and robust. Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters, add ice, pour in whiskey, and stir. Garnish with an orange slice for a touch of citrus.
- Highball: For a light and refreshing whiskey drink, try a Highball. Pour whiskey over ice, top with soda water, and stir. It’s a straightforward cocktail that lets the whiskey shine.
Other Easy Drinks & Non-Alcoholic Options
For guests who prefer a lighter drink or a non-alcoholic option, there are plenty of delicious choices as well.
- Aperol Spritz: This bubbly orange cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco (or any sparkling wine), and soda water. Serve in a wine glass with ice and garnish with an orange slice for a bright and slightly bitter spritz.
- Mimosa: A brunch classic, the Mimosa combines champagne or sparkling wine with orange juice. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make—just fill half a glass with sparkling wine, top with orange juice, and give it a gentle stir.
- Shirley Temple (Non-Alcoholic): For a sweet and fun mocktail, mix ginger ale or lemon-lime soda with grenadine and garnish with a maraschino cherry. Kids and adults alike can enjoy this bubbly treat.
- Virgin Mojito (Non-Alcoholic): Muddle fresh mint and lime in a glass, add ice and simple syrup, and top with soda water. This mocktail is just as refreshing as its alcoholic counterpart, perfect for warm days or as a light option.
These cocktails are easy to prepare, and many don’t require special or unusual ingredients, making them ideal for hosting. With these simple recipes, you’ll have no trouble keeping your guests happy and the drinks flowing at your next event!
