Do you love hosting parties but don’t always know what kind of drinks to make? Making cocktails at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, we have compiled a list of cocktails that are simple to make, will impress your guests, and use liquors that are easily accessible and versatile. So, whether you’re throwing a barbecue or want something fun to drink on a Friday night, these recipes might be for you:
1. Dry Martini
The Dry Martini is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any party. It’s easy to make, and you can tailor it to your guests’ preferences. Combine 1.5 ounces of gin and 0.75 ounces of dry vermouth in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist. Add more or less vermouth to make it as dry or wet as you like.
2. Gin and Tonic
The Gin and Tonic is a classic, refreshing cocktail. Combine gin and tonic water in a glass over ice. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge if desired. To tailor it to your preferences, add a splash of simple syrup or fruit juice if you want a sweeter drink or add another shot of gin to make it a strong drink.
3. Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Combine two ounces of whiskey, 0.75 ounces of sweet vermouth, and a dash of angostura bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry or an orange twist. You can use any whiskey you like, but either rye or bourbon whiskey is traditionally used.
4. Moscow Mule
Moscow Mules are the perfect summer cocktail. They’re refreshing, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, they look beautiful when served in copper mugs. However, regular glasses will also work just fine. To make a Moscow Mule, combine the following ingredients: 1.5 ounces of vodka, a 1/6 ounce of lime juice, and 4 ounces of ginger beer in a glass over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge if desired.
5. Mojito
A Mojito is the perfect, refreshing cocktail to have on a summer evening—especially if you have an herb garden and access to fresh mint. To make a Mojito, muddle a handful of mint leaves and 0.75 ounces of lime juice in a glass. Add 1.5 ounces of rum and 0.25 ounces of sugar syrup, then top with soda water. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy! Additionally, if you want to make your own sugar syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then remove from heat to cool before adding it to your cocktail.
