As the sun beats down and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to quench your thirst. And when it comes to warm-weather gatherings, serving up a pitcher of deliciousness can be just as important as the company you’re keeping. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 batch cocktail recipes that are perfect for sipping on those long summer days.
From classic margaritas and fruity sangrias to spiked punches and fizzy spritzers, there’s something here for every taste bud and occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a little pick-me-up after a long day at the beach, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll take you through some of our favorite summer cocktails that can be made in bulk. From simple syrups to infused spirits and fresh fruit, we’ll show you how to create the perfect pitcher for your next outdoor gathering. So grab a glass, get ready to get your sip on, and let’s dive into these refreshing batch cocktail recipes!
Classic Margarita Pitcher
Elevate your gatherings with this refreshing Classic Margarita Pitcher recipe, perfect for warm weather get-togethers and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups tequila (100% agave)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup triple sec or Cointreau
– 4 cups ice
– Salt, for rimming glasses (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim 8-10 glasses with salt, if desired.
2. In a large pitcher, combine tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Add ice to the pitcher and stir well to combine and chill the mixture.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.
5. Pour the margarita mixture into prepared glasses.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Notes:
– For a more intense lime flavor, use 1 1/2 cups of lime juice.
– To make a pitcher of frozen margaritas, simply add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Classic Margarita Pitcher!
Sangria with Fresh Citrus and Berries
Elevate your summer gatherings with this vibrant sangria, bursting with the flavors of fresh citrus and berries. Perfect for warm weather celebrations, this recipe is easy to make and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup mixed citrus juice (orange, grapefruit, and lemon)
– 1 cup mixed berry juice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced
– 1 lemon, peeled and sliced
– 1 lime, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, citrus juice, and berry juice.
2. Add the sliced orange, lemon, and lime to the pitcher.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None required!
Enjoy your refreshing Sangria with Fresh Citrus and Berries!
Bourbon Peach Iced Tea Punch
A refreshing twist on traditional iced tea, this Bourbon Peach Iced Tea Punch is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time of the year. With the sweetness of peaches and the smoothness of bourbon, this punch is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart brewed tea (black or green)
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– Slices of fresh peaches and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, peach puree, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir gently.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the punch over ice with slices of fresh peaches and mint leaves as garnish.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on brewing time)
Pineapple Coconut Rum Punch
Elevate your party with this sweet and tangy punch that combines the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and rum. Perfect for summer gatherings or tropical-themed celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine syrup
– Ice cubes
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut milk, and dark rum.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Add a splash of grenadine syrup for a hint of flavor.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the punch over ice cubes and garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a non-cooking recipe!
Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade Sangria
This refreshing sangria combines the sweetness of raspberries and lemonade with the fizziness of sparkling wine, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions. With its vibrant pink color and delightful flavors, this Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade Sangria is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 cups lemonade (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 bottle sparkling wine (white or rosé)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Sliced lemons and limes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the fresh raspberries and lemonade.
2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, pour in the sparkling wine and stir gently.
5. Garnish with sliced lemons and limes.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Watermelon Mojito Batch
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this Spicy Watermelon Mojito combines the sweetness of watermelon with a kick of heat from jalapeño peppers. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique cocktail for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced watermelon
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 oz white rum
– 2 oz sparkling water
– 1/4 cup mint leaves
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced watermelon, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
2. Muddle mint leaves with the watermelon mixture until well combined.
3. Add white rum and stir gently to combine.
4. Add sparkling water and stir again.
5. Stir in chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Gin Fizz Pitcher
This unique recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries, the subtle charm of lavender, and the crispness of gin for a refreshing twist on the classic fizz.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 sprigs of dried lavender
– 1 1/2 cups gin
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Fresh blueberries and edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine blueberries and lavender sprigs.
2. Add gin and stir to combine.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add lemon-lime soda and simple syrup.
5. Stir gently and garnish with additional blueberries and edible flowers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Tropical Mango Rum Punch
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of the tropics with this refreshing cocktail! This fruity punch is perfect for warm weather gatherings, parties, or just a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mango puree
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of club soda
– Fresh mint leaves and mango slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine mango puree, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and dark rum. Stir well to combine.
2. Add lime juice and simple syrup. Stir until the simple syrup is fully dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, stir in a splash of club soda.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and mango slices.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembling only)
Cucumber Mint Vodka Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing cocktail that combines the coolness of cucumber and mint with the smoothness of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger ale
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices with a few mint leaves to release their flavors.
2. Add vodka and shake well to combine.
3. Fill a glass with ice and pour in the vodka-cucumber mixture.
4. Top with ginger ale and stir gently.
5. Garnish with additional mint leaves and a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Apple Cider Bourbon Punch
As the temperature drops, gather friends and family around the fire pit or fireplace with a warm and inviting Apple Cider Bourbon Punch. This autumnal twist on classic punch combines the comfort of apple cider with the richness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 cinnamon stick, crushed
– Sliced oranges and apples for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or urn, combine apple cider, bourbon, and orange juice.
2. Add maple syrup and crushed cinnamon stick. Heat mixture over low heat until warm and fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain punch into a serving pitcher or individual mugs.
5. Garnish with sliced oranges and apples.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Pomegranate Rosemary Spritz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Rosemary Spritz, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. This unique blend combines the sweetness of pomegranate juice with the herbal notes of rosemary and a splash of Prosecco.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) Prosecco
– 1 oz (30 ml) pomegranate juice
– 1/4 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1/4 oz (15 ml) rosemary-infused vodka (or regular vodka with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary)
– Splash of lemon-lime soda (optional)
– Fresh rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Prosecco, pomegranate juice, simple syrup, and rosemary-infused vodka.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Top with a splash of lemon-lime soda, if desired.
5. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Ginger Beer Moscow Mule Pitcher
A refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this pitcher combines spicy ginger beer with tangy lime juice and vodka for a perfect blend of warm and cool. Perfect for gatherings or parties, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle Ginger Beer (32 oz)
– 2 cups Vodka (40% ABV)
– Juice of 1 Lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice
– Lime wedges for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice.
2. Pour in the ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Basil Prosecco Punch
Elevate your gathering with this refreshing and flavorful punch that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the brightness of basil, perfectly balanced by a splash of Prosecco.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 bottle Prosecco (750ml)
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the strawberry slices and basil leaves together until well combined.
2. Add the Prosecco and stir gently to combine.
3. Stir in the sparkling water and honey until dissolved.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with additional strawberry slices and basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 hours
Blackberry Sage Whiskey Smash Batch
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Blackberry Sage Whiskey Smash! This recipe combines the sweetness of blackberries, the earthiness of sage, and the warmth of whiskey to create a unique and flavorful drink.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 2 sprigs of fresh sage
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• 1 tablespoon honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
• Splash of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the blackberries with a spoon to release their juices.
2. Add the whiskey, honey syrup, and lemon juice. Stir until combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the crushed ice to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh sage and serve over more crushed ice.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to be enjoyed as soon as you’ve prepared it.
Passionfruit Mojito Pitcher
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito, featuring sweet and tangy passionfruit puree. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lime juice
– 2 cups club soda
– 1/4 cup white rum
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup passionfruit puree
– Handful of ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lime juice, club soda, white rum, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the passionfruit puree and stir until well combined.
3. Fill the pitcher with ice and stir gently to chill.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation time: 10 minutes)
Lemonade Vodka Slush for a Crowd
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional lemonade! This recipe makes a big batch of slushy, sweet, and tangy goodness that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or backyard BBQs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup vodka (such as Absolut or Ketel One)
– 4 cups simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6 cups ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and vodka. Stir until well combined.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Fill the pitcher with ice and stir until the mixture is slushy and chilled.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Bellini Batch Cocktail
Combine the sweet taste of peaches with the crispness of Prosecco in this refreshing batch cocktail perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups peach puree (canned or fresh cooked)
– 1 cup Prosecco
– 1 cup vodka (peach-flavored or regular)
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda
– Sliced peaches and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine peach puree and vodka. Stir until well combined.
2. Add Prosecco and stir gently to avoid creating foam.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with sliced peaches and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None (chill time included)
Spiced Cranberry Sangria
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing Spiced Cranberry Sangria! This fruity and aromatic drink is perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine
– 1 cup cranberries
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, cranberries, orange slices, and spices.
2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (plus chilling time)
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing batch cocktail recipes perfect for summer gatherings! From classic margaritas to fruity sangrias and spritzers, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a pitcher of Bourbon Peach Iced Tea Punch or Pomegranate Rosemary Spritz. Or, go big with a Spicy Watermelon Mojito Batch or Tropical Mango Rum Punch. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
