20 Easy Cocktail Recipes to Make at Home

Crafting cocktails at home is a delightful way to explore the art of mixology and impress your guests with sophisticated beverages. Whether you're hosting a summer soirée or enjoying a quiet evening, these 20 classic and easy-to-make cocktails will elevate your at-home drinks menu. Each recipe includes an elegant description, a list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect results every time.

You don’t need to be a professional or own special equipment to make these fun, fresh and delicious cocktails at home. From Moscow mule to espresso martini, all your favorites are there – cheers!

Tip: To ensure your cocktails reach professional-quality flavor, use premium ingredients and tools. For an elevated experience, incorporate Tipsy Topsy Brand spirits and mixers into your recipes.

1. Mojito

The Mojito is a timeless cocktail that epitomizes summer refreshment with its vibrant blend of flavors. This Cuban classic combines the zesty tang of lime with the cooling aroma of fresh mint, all balanced by the smoothness of white rum. The effervescence of soda water adds a lightness that makes it incredibly thirst-quenching. Whether enjoyed poolside or at a casual gathering, the Mojito's invigorating profile is sure to delight. Experiment with additional fruits like strawberries or mango to create your own fruity variations.

The Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 2 ounces white rum
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Mojito:

1. Muddle the Mint: In a sturdy glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with sugar and lime juice to release the mint's essential oils.
2. Add Ice: Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes to keep the drink cool.
3. Pour the Rum: Add the white rum over the ice, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Top with Soda: Fill the remainder of the glass with soda water and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge for an appealing presentation.
   
   

2. Tom Collins

The Tom Collins is a quintessential cocktail that embodies simplicity and elegance. This sparkling drink marries the botanical notes of gin with the bright acidity of lemon juice, creating a balanced and refreshing beverage. The addition of soda water gives it a lively effervescence, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoons to sophisticated evenings. Customize your Tom Collins with touches like elderflower cordial or muddled berries to add a unique twist.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge or cherry for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Tom Collins:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously to chill the mixture.
3. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
4. Add Soda Water: Top off the drink with soda water, stirring gently to blend.
5. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a lemon wedge or a cherry for a classic finish.
   
   

3. Sex on the Beach

Sex on the Beach is a vibrant and playful cocktail that bursts with fruity flavors, making it a favorite at parties and casual gatherings alike. This drink combines the sweetness of peach schnapps and vodka with the tangy notes of cranberry and orange juices, resulting in a deliciously balanced beverage. Its eye-catching presentation, often adorned with cherries and orange slices, makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, this cocktail brings a touch of tropical flair to any occasion.

The Ingredients:

• 1½ ounces vodka
• 1 ounce peach schnapps
• 2 ounces cranberry juice
• 2 ounces orange juice
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice and cocktail cherry for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Sex on the Beach:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice.
2. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
3. Strain into Glass: Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry for a festive touch.
   
   

4. Piña Colada

The Piña Colada is the epitome of tropical indulgence, offering a creamy and luscious blend of coconut and pineapple flavors. This beloved classic transports you to a sun-soaked paradise with every sip, making it a perfect choice for relaxing afternoons or themed parties. The rich texture and balanced sweetness create a delightful experience, while the addition of a colorful umbrella adds a touch of retro charm. For those seeking a non-alcoholic option, the spiced virgin Piña Colada delivers all the flavor without the booze.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1½ ounces coconut cream
• 3 ounces pineapple juice
• 1 cup ice
• Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Piña Colada:

1. Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine white rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and ice.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
3. Pour into Glass: Pour the blended cocktail into a tall glass.
4. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry for a picturesque presentation.
   
   

5. Classic Negroni

The Classic Negroni is a sophisticated cocktail that balances bitter, sweet, and herbal flavors to create a deeply complex and enjoyable drink. Originating from Italy, this elegant beverage combines the boldness of gin with the bittersweetness of Campari and the rich, herbal notes of sweet vermouth. The striking crimson color and aromatic complexity make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Serve it slowly to savor its layered flavors, garnished with an orange slice to enhance its citrusy aroma.

The Ingredients:

• 1 ounce gin
• 1 ounce Campari
• 1 ounce sweet vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice or twist for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Classic Negroni:

1. Combine Spirits: In a mixing glass, combine gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
2. Stir with Ice: Add ice to the glass and stir gently to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
3. Strain into Glass: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with an orange slice or a twist of blood orange for added fragrance.
   
   

6. Martini

The Martini stands as a symbol of timeless elegance and sophistication in the world of cocktails. Whether you prefer the classic gin Martini or the modern vodka variation, this iconic drink is a versatile canvas for personalization. Its smooth and potent nature makes it a favorite for those who appreciate strong, clean flavors. Garnished with either an olive or a twist of lemon, the Martini exudes class and refinement, making it perfect for special occasions or a stylish evening in.

The Ingredients:

• 2½ ounces gin or vodka
• ½ ounce dry vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Olive or lemon twist for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Martini:

1. Chill the Glass: Place a martini glass in the freezer to chill.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine gin or vodka with dry vermouth.
3. Stir or Shake: Stir gently for a smooth finish or shake vigorously for a slightly diluted and colder drink.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with an olive or a twist of lemon peel for added flavor.
   
   

7. Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is a stylish and vibrant cocktail that combines tart and sweet flavors to create a visually stunning drink. Made famous by its association with glamorous lifestyles, this cocktail blends citrus vodka with cranberry and orange liqueur, resulting in a balanced and refreshing beverage. Its alluring pink hue and elegant presentation make it a popular choice for both daytime brunches and evening soirées. Enhance its sophistication with a twist of orange zest, adding an extra layer of aromatic complexity.

The Ingredients:

• 1½ ounces citrus vodka
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• ½ ounce triple sec
• ½ ounce lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Orange zest or twist for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Cosmopolitan:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine citrus vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice.
2. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a twist of orange zest to release the citrus oils, enhancing the drink's aroma.
   
   

8. Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is a harmonious blend of rich bourbon, sharp lemon, and sweet sugar, creating a cocktail that is both robust and refreshing. This classic drink balances the deep flavors of whiskey with the bright acidity of lemon juice, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying beverage. The optional addition of egg white introduces a velvety texture and frothy head, elevating the drink to a sophisticated level. Perfect as an after-dinner drink or a celebratory toast, the Whiskey Sour embodies timeless elegance.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces bourbon
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• ¾ ounce simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Cherry and lemon slice for garnish
• (Optional) 1 egg white
  
  

How to Make a Whiskey Sour:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optionally, egg white.
2. Dry Shake: Shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add Ice and Shake Again: Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a cherry and a slice of lemon for a classic presentation.
   
   

9. White Russian

The White Russian is a creamy and indulgent cocktail that seamlessly blends the richness of coffee liqueur with the smoothness of vodka and fresh cream. This luxurious drink is perfect for dessert or as a cozy evening treat, offering a delightful balance of sweet and strong flavors. Its velvety texture and deep coffee notes make it an irresistible choice for those who enjoy a sophisticated, dessert-like beverage. For an innovative twist, try the Upcycled White Russian, which incorporates leftover coffee grounds for added depth.

The Ingredients:

• 1½ ounces vodka
• 1 ounce coffee liqueur
• 1 ounce fresh cream
• Ice cubes
• (Optional) Coffee beans for garnish
  
  

How to Make a White Russian:

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling a rocks glass with ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.
2. Add Vodka and Coffee Liqueur: Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
3. Top with Cream: Gently pour fresh cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
4. Stir Lightly: Give the drink a light stir to blend the flavors while maintaining the creamy layer.
5. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with a few coffee beans for an elegant touch.
   
   

10. Classic Margarita

The Classic Margarita is synonymous with vibrant energy and lively gatherings, offering a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. This iconic tequila-based cocktail combines the zest of lime with the subtle sweetness of triple sec, all enhanced by a salted rim that adds a savory contrast. Whether enjoyed on the rocks or blended into a frozen delight, the Margarita is a versatile favorite that brings a festive spirit to any occasion. Explore various tequila options and creative twists to personalize this beloved classic.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 1 ounce triple sec
• Salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Classic Margarita:

1. Prepare the Rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a glass and dip it into salt to coat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lime wedge for a fresh and vibrant presentation.
   
   

11. Gin Fizz

The Gin Fizz is a light and bubbly cocktail that offers a refreshing citrusy flavor, perfect for warm days and elegant gatherings. This drink combines the botanical complexity of gin with the bright acidity of lemon juice, all balanced by the sweetness of simple syrup. The addition of soda water provides a lively effervescence, while an optional egg white can create a luxurious frothy head. Its simplicity and elegance make the Gin Fizz a versatile choice for any occasion.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• ¾ ounce simple syrup
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slice for garnish
• (Optional) 1 egg white
  
  

How to Make a Gin Fizz:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optionally, egg white.
2. Dry Shake: Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white if using.
3. Add Ice and Shake Again: Add ice to the shaker and shake until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Top with Soda Water: Top off the drink with soda water, stirring gently to maintain the frothy head.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a slice of lemon for a bright and fresh finish.
   
   

12. Cuba Libre

The Cuba Libre is a simple yet iconic cocktail that transforms basic ingredients into a refreshing and satisfying drink. By combining rum and cola with a squeeze of fresh lime, this cocktail gains a zesty edge that elevates its flavor profile. Its effortless charm and straightforward preparation make it a timeless favorite for casual sipping and social gatherings. Serve it in a tall glass with plenty of ice for a crisp and invigorating experience.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces white rum
• Cola
• Juice of half a lime
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Cuba Libre:

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling a tall glass with ice cubes to keep the drink cold.
2. Add Rum: Pour white rum over the ice.
3. Top with Cola: Fill the glass with cola, leaving a little space at the top.
4. Squeeze in Lime: Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the drink for a burst of citrus flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lime wedge for an extra touch of freshness.
   
   

13. Sidecar

The Sidecar is a cocktail that exudes vintage glamour, harking back to the sophisticated lounges of the 1920s. This elegant drink combines the warmth of cognac with the bright acidity of lemon juice and the sweet complexity of orange liqueur. The result is a balanced and flavorful cocktail that is both rich and refreshing. Serve it in a sugar-rimmed glass to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or refined gatherings.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cognac
• 1 ounce orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• Sugar for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Sidecar:

1. Prepare the Rim: Moisten the rim of a cocktail glass with a lemon wedge and dip it into sugar to coat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice.
3. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a twist of lemon for an elegant finish.
   
   

14. Gimlet

The Gimlet is a minimalist cocktail that delivers a punch of bright, zesty lime flavor, making it a crisp and refreshing choice for any occasion. This classic drink combines the botanical notes of gin with the tartness of homemade lime syrup, resulting in a balanced and invigorating beverage. Its simple yet sophisticated profile makes it perfect for elegant gatherings or a refined evening at home. Garnish with edible flowers to add a touch of beauty and sophistication.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lime syrup (equal parts sugar and lime juice)
• Ice cubes
• Edible flowers or lime wheel for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Gimlet:

1. Prepare Lime Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and lime juice. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine gin and lime syrup.
3. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled glass.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with edible flowers or a lime wheel for an elegant presentation.
   
   

15. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a vibrant and sunny cocktail that originates from Italy, perfect for leisurely afternoons and festive gatherings. Its signature orange hue and bittersweet flavor create a refreshing and indulgent beverage that is both visually stunning and delightful to sip. The combination of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water results in a balanced drink that is light yet flavorful. Garnish with an orange slice to enhance its citrusy aroma and aesthetic appeal.

The Ingredients:

• 3 ounces prosecco
• 2 ounces Aperol
• Splash of soda water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice for garnish
  
  

How to Make an Aperol Spritz:

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling a large wine glass with ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.
2. Add Prosecco and Aperol: Pour in the prosecco followed by Aperol.
3. Top with Soda Water: Add a splash of soda water to lighten the drink.
4. Stir Gently: Stir gently to combine the ingredients without losing the effervescence.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a slice of orange for a vibrant and appealing finish.
   
   

16. Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise is a visually captivating cocktail known for its stunning gradient hues that mimic a beautiful sunrise. This drink combines the bold flavors of tequila with the sweetness of grenadine and the tang of orange juice, creating a layered and flavorful experience. Its striking appearance makes it a standout choice for parties and gatherings, while its balanced taste ensures it’s as enjoyable to sip as it is to admire. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice to complete the sunrise effect.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces tequila
• 4 ounces orange juice
• ½ ounce grenadine
• Ice cubes
• Cherry and orange slice for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Tequila Sunrise:

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling a tall glass with ice cubes to keep the drink cold.
2. Add Tequila and Orange Juice: Pour tequila and orange juice into the glass, stirring gently to combine.
3. Pour in Grenadine: Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass to create a layered sunrise effect.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice for a picturesque presentation.
   
   

17. Amaretto Sour

The Amaretto Sour is a velvety smooth cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy nutty and citrusy beverages. The almond notes of amaretto liqueur pair beautifully with the sharpness of lemon juice, creating a harmonious and invigorating drink. Topped with a frothy head when shaken with egg white, this cocktail offers both visual appeal and a luxurious texture, making it a standout option for elegant gatherings or a relaxing evening.

The Ingredients:

• 1½ ounces amaretto
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Cherry for garnish
• (Optional) 1 egg white
  
  

How to Make an Amaretto Sour:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine amaretto, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optionally, egg white.
2. Dry Shake: Shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add Ice and Shake Again: Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a cherry for a classic and elegant finish.
   
   

18. Long Island Iced Tea

The Long Island Iced Tea is a bold and potent cocktail that combines a variety of spirits with a splash of cola, resulting in a complex and flavorful drink. Despite its name, this cocktail doesn’t contain any tea, but its color and refreshing taste make it reminiscent of a classic iced tea. The mix of vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and triple sec creates a harmonious blend that is both strong and surprisingly smooth. Perfect for lively gatherings, the Long Island Iced Tea is a showstopper that brings excitement to any occasion.

The Ingredients:

• ½ ounce vodka
• ½ ounce gin
• ½ ounce white rum
• ½ ounce tequila
• ½ ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Long Island Iced Tea:

1. Combine Spirits and Mixers: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Top with Cola: Top off the drink with a splash of cola, giving it the characteristic iced tea color.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lemon wedge for a bright and refreshing presentation.
   
   

19. Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is the undisputed king of coffee cocktails, offering a perfect blend of rich espresso and smooth vodka. This sophisticated drink combines the boldness of freshly brewed coffee with the sweetness of coffee liqueur, resulting in a creamy and invigorating beverage. Its two-tone appearance, often garnished with coffee beans, makes it visually appealing and ideal for both evening gatherings and after-dinner indulgence. The Espresso Martini provides a delightful caffeine kick, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.

The Ingredients:

• 1½ ounces vodka
• 1 ounce coffee liqueur
• 1 ounce fresh espresso
• Ice cubes
• Coffee beans for garnish
  
  

How to Make an Espresso Martini:

1. Prepare the Espresso: Brew a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and the freshly brewed espresso.
3. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled and frothy.
4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a few coffee beans for an elegant and aromatic touch.
   
   

20. Whiskey Highball

The Whiskey Highball is a simple yet refined cocktail that highlights the natural flavors of whiskey with a hint of citrus and a touch of soda. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate the nuanced notes of their favorite spirit without overpowering additives. The effervescence of soda water adds a refreshing lightness, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed evening or a sophisticated gathering. Garnished with a lemon twist or a sprig of mint, the Whiskey Highball offers a balanced and elegant sipping experience.

The Ingredients:

• 2 ounces whiskey
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or mint sprig for garnish
  
  

How to Make a Whiskey Highball:

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.
2. Add Whiskey: Pour whiskey over the ice, allowing it to settle.
3. Top with Soda Water: Fill the remainder of the glass with soda water, creating a light and bubbly profile.
4. Stir Gently: Stir gently to combine the whiskey and soda water without losing carbonation.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of mint to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.

Enjoy experimenting with these timeless cocktails and elevate your at-home drink offerings with ease and elegance!