Unlock the Secrets of Effortless Cocktails!
The appeal of mixing cocktails lies in the fact that the simplest ones are often the most delicious. This collection of 33 easy cocktails offers a refreshing array of options regardless of whether you prefer whiskey, vodka/gin/tequila, or a classic glass of wine. From 3-ingredient concoctions to even simpler mixes, there’s a cocktail for everyone.Classic cocktails earn their status for various reasons. Many, like margaritas and martinis, stand the test of time because they require minimal ingredients and don’t demand intricate proportions or techniques to achieve that mixologist feel at home. Yet, simplicity doesn’t equate to lack of depth. Investing in quality liquor elevates classics like old fashioneds and Manhattans, while experimenting with unique bitters can spice up your happy hour routine.Sure, a shot is essentially a one-ingredient “cocktail,” but adding a couple more elements (along with ice and garnish) can transform it into a memorable drink. Elevate a shot of vodka by mixing it with your favorite mixer to craft a Cape Codder (with cranberry juice), Seabreeze (with cranberry and grapefruit juice), or Bay Breeze (with cranberry and pineapple juice). With only two ingredients, the Kalimotxo, a delightful Spanish cocktail, calls for red wine, Mexican coke, and a hint of lemon for a flavorful experience.Evening cocktail hours offer a chance to indulge in timeless classics like dirty martinis, Negronis, and Gimlets, but brunch deserves its share of spotlight too. Spritzes such as Aperol spritz, Campari spritz, and Limoncello spritz shine during brunch, alongside orange-infused mimosas, screwdrivers, and the tomato tini. Whatever the occasion, there are plenty of simple, 3-ingredient cocktails to choose from!Whether it’s a Dirty Martini, Campari Spritz, Classic Mimosa, Manhattan, or Negroni, each cocktail encapsulates a unique flavor profile and experience that is easy to recreate at home. So, dive into the world of effortless cocktails and elevate your mixology skills with these simple yet delightful recipes.
Photography: Erik Bernstein; Food Styling: Brooke Caison
Kalimotxo
To make a Kalimotxo, all you need are two ingredients: Coca-Cola and red wine. It may sound unconventional, but this combination is truly something special. Try the Kalimotxo recipe.
Photography: Erik Bernstein; Food Styling: Lena Abraham
Classic Margaritas
A beloved classic cocktail enjoyed worldwide, the Classic Margarita requires just three ingredients and five minutes of your time. Grab those limes and let the happy hour festivities commence! Get the Classic Margaritas recipe.
Photography: Rachel Vanni; Food Styling: Taylor Ann Spencer
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a cherished Italian classic known for its iconic bittersweet taste reminiscent of burnt orange and tart rhubarb. Combined with Prosecco and a splash of soda water, this cocktail is perfect for warm weather sipping. Get the Aperol Spritz recipe.
Photography: Rocky Luten; Food Styling: Brooke Caison
Old Fashioned
With its oaky sweetness and a hint of citrus, the whiskey-based Old Fashioned is a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. Simple ingredients like sugar, bitters, bourbon, and a large ice cube are all you need to create this timeless cocktail. Check out the Old Fashioned recipe.
Photography: Erik Bernstein; Food Styling: Spencer Richards
Moscow Mule
Vodka, fresh lime juice, and spicy ginger beer come together in a charming copper mug to create the refreshing Moscow Mule—a fizzy delight you’ll enjoy year-round. Try the Moscow Mule recipe.
Photography: Rachel Vanni; Food Styling: Lena Abraham
Classic Paloma
Similar to a margarita but with a grapefruit twist, the Classic Paloma is hailed as a superior cocktail in Mexico. Its bittersweet, citrusy flavor and straightforward preparation make it a popular choice. Get the Classic Paloma recipe.
Photography: Nico Schinco; Food Styling: Makinze Gore
Bay Breeze Cocktail
For a taste of beach house vibes, mix up a Bay Breeze cocktail featuring vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice over ice. This tall, frosty drink strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, fruity and boozy. Try the Bay Breeze Cocktail recipe.
Photography: Erik Bernstein; Food Styling: Brooke Caison
Kir Royale
Elegant and sophisticated, the Kir Royale is a sparkling wine-based cocktail that exudes classiness. Easy to prepare with a bubbly, sweet profile, it elevates any occasion. Get the Kir Royale recipe.
Photography: Rocky Luten; Food Styling: Brooke Caison
White Russian
A delightful cocktail every home bartender should master, the White Russian tastes like a boozy chocolate milkshake and requires only three simple ingredients you likely already have. Try the White Russian recipe
Discover must-know cocktail recipes for every at-home bartender, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. From the classic Cosmopolitan to the refreshing Dark ‘N’ Stormy and the simple Americano, these recipes are sure to elevate your mixology skills. Try out the zesty Gimlet, the sparkling St. Germain Spritz, or the flavorful Tomato Tini for a unique twist. Whether you prefer a Screwdriver, a Vodka Martini, or a fruity Cherry Bomb Mimosa, there’s a cocktail here for every taste. Cheers to mixing up your perfect drink!
Essentially, the love child of a Cape Codder and a Salty Dog, the Seabreeze Drink is a delightful concoction worth sipping slowly. If you’re looking to craft this refreshing libation at home, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you. Just ask for the Seabreeze Drink recipe from Erik Bernstein.
For those seeking a drink that falls in the same realm as a vodka soda but with a touch of sweetness, the Vodka Tonic is a top choice. At our recommendation, citrus is a must-have addition to elevate this classic cocktail. While lemons and limes are always a safe bet, consider adding blood orange slices for a vibrant burst of color and flavor. To master the art of mixing a perfect Vodka Tonic, look no further than the recipe shared by Parker Feierbach.
When it comes to a simple yet satisfying beverage that can be whipped up using basic fridge staples, the Gin Rickey reigns supreme. With just a few ingredients like limes, club soda, and gin, you can effortlessly create a drink that is not only refreshing but also low in carbs. If you’re ready to embrace the ease and elegance of a Gin Rickey, make sure to grab the recipe provided by Erik Bernstein.
For those who appreciate a cocktail with a touch of warmth and comfort, the Brown Sugar Old Fashioned is a game-changer. By infusing a classic Old Fashioned with a hint of brown sugar, this drink takes on a cozy sweetness reminiscent of caramel. Trust us when we say, once you try this version, you won’t want it any other way. To indulge in the comforting allure of a Brown Sugar Old Fashioned, be sure to check out the recipe curated by Emily Hlavac Green.
To top it all off, if you’re on the lookout for more culinary inspiration, consider exploring the collection of Insanely Easy Weeknight Dinners or browsing through the lineup of 29 Insanely Delicious Vodka Cocktails. With these options at your fingertips, culinary creativity knows no bounds.
