Better Homes And Gardens Summer Drinks

Watermelon-Berry Limeade in clear glass

Credit: Andy Lyons

When the summer heat hits, there's nothing like cooling off with a refreshing summer cocktail. Here you'll find plenty of summer drinks to sip all season long. In the mood for a frozen margarita or a fun summer twist on lemonade? We got those and more. We're also sharing some of our favorite non-alcoholic summer drinks for the kiddos and abstainers hanging out by the pool.

Cucumber-Watermelon Sangria

Cucumber-Watermelon Sangria glass

Credit: Courtesy of Jessica Merchant

This is the refreshing summer drink to serve on the hottest days of the year. Cucumber and watermelon (two of the most hydrating foods on the planet) make this homemade drink for summer the ultimate thirst-quencher. Dress up each glass of white wine sangria with a few watermelon balls, cucumber slices, and lime slices to give a hint at the flavors to come.

Grilled Peach Whiskey Smash

Credit: Jason Donnelly

Here's one of our favorite DIY summer drink tricks: grill stone fruit to add to the mix. It brings out the natural sugars and gives a nod to one of the best warm weather pastimes (barbecuing!). Each serving of this basil-scented bourbon drink includes a whole small peach.

Avocado Margaritas

Avocado Margarita

Credit: Hannah Bigot

With avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime, these margaritas showcase everything you love about guacamole in a sweeter, sippable package. Rather than plain salt, rim the glasses with chile-lime salt for a fitting kick.

Buy It: Ninja Professional 1000-Watt Blender ($79, Walmart)

Strawberry Gin Slushies

Pink Rhubarb Lemonade

Credit: Karla Conrad

Gin and juice gets a slushy spin in this icy, easy summer drink recipe. With strawberry sorbet and pureed fresh berries, the double dose of fruit eliminates the need for any additional sugar. Once you've mastered the base recipe, try the same ratio with any flavor of sorbet and chopped fruit.

Cucumber-Mint Refresher

Credit: Blaine Moats

If you don't own a juicer, you can whip up these healthy summer drinks in your blender. Just pour the mix through a sieve before serving so the spinach smoothies are sippable. If the melon doesn't make it sweet enough for you, add a spoonful of honey.

Buy It: Megachef Juice Extractor Juicer Machine ($79, Walmart)

Spicy Mezcal Pineapple Smoke Cocktail

Spicy Pineapple Smoke in glass

Credit: Jason Donnelly

If you haven't tried Mezcal yet, this is a great summer cocktail to get you acquainted. The agave-based liquor gives this cocktail a naturally smoky flavor. Combined with pineapple, serrano pepper, tamarind, and topped with mango sparkling water, it checks all the boxes for a spicy-sweet sip.

Champagne Float

Champagne-Sorbet Float

Credit: Hannah Bigot

It's simpler than you think to make your own sorbet. Try it as the star (well, besides the champagne) in this fat-free fruity float recipe. That way, you can tailor the sweetness level and flavor to your palate. Swap the sparkling wine with club soda for a pretty mocktail.

Watermelon-Berry Limeade

Watermelon-Berry Limeade in clear glass

Credit: Andy Lyons

Blend up this easy summer drink in just 10 minutes when you're in a rush to cool off. The best part? Each hydrating glass of this coconut water mocktail counts as a serving of fruit!

Related:Our Best Mocktail Recipes That Don't Need Booze to Be Delicious

Raspberry or Mango Spritz-Ade Cocktails

Raspberry or Mango Spritz-ade Cocktails

Credit: Blaine Moats

In this lighter, modern twist on a margarita, we cut the sweetness of the lemonade with a can of club soda. Customize the refreshing summer alcoholic drink with your favorite citrus on top of—and berries mixed into—the cocktails. Serve over ice, add a stir stick to keep the beverage well-blended, and enjoy.

Ginger Beer Shandy Floats

Ginger Beer Shandy float drink

Credit: Jessica Merchant

Rather than a root beer float this summer, try a ginger and regular beer one! For an additional grown-up touch, we start these refreshing summer drinks with muddled crystallized ginger. Freeze mason jars, beer mugs, or glasses for about two hours before building the floats to keep 'em nice and frosty for as long as possible.

Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic

Credit: Matthew Clark

Muddled berries (pick any that look fresh at the market) star in this health-friendly tonic. They're mixed with apple cider vinegar and lemon juice for a tasty and healthy summer drink. For even more summer spirit, garnish with fresh basil or mint.

Buy It: Dailyware Impressions 16-Piece Drinkware Set ($25, Bed Bath & Beyond)

Rosé Cucumber Cooler

Rosè Cucumber Cooler

Credit: Andy Lyons

Fresh cucumbers are what your sangria has been missing. This refreshing summer alcoholic drink is proof! And even when it's not summer, you'll want to keep a bottle of St. Germain elderflower liqueur in your bar year-round to perk up any sangria recipe.

Summer Fruit Daiquiri

Credit: Scott Little

Mango, watermelon, peaches, strawberries—this icy fruit daiquiri has it all. Make this refreshing summer drink nonalcoholic for all to enjoy by substituting orange juice for the light rum. Craving a summer cocktail in the middle of winter? Follow this same daiquiri recipe using thawed, frozen fruit (then imagine your toes in the sand as you sip).

Cucumber-Grape Smash

Cucumber-Grape Smash in glass

Credit: Jason Donnelly

There's no alcohol involved in this refreshing summer drink, but with how delicious it is, you won't care. Cooling cucumber, green grapes, and mint are blended together before getting topped off with ginger beer. It'll pair perfectly with your summer barbecue or day by the pool.

Buy It: Hamilton Beach Stack and Snap 12-Cup Food Processor ($55, Target)

Spicy Tomato Gin and Tonic

Spicy Tomato Gin Tonic

Credit: Andy Lyons

That's right, you have our permission to start your day with a refreshing summer cocktail! This gin and tonic take on a bloody mary is made for boozy brunches—and for summer. Cherry tomatoes and fresh dill, along with a hint of lime, will help you keep your cool despite a splash of hot sauce.

Related:Our 35 Best Brunch Recipes of All Time

Sparkling Rosé Blueberry Float

Sparkling Rose Blueberry Floats

Credit: Andy Lyons

Your favorite childhood drink just got an upgrade. This adult version features the perfect combo of bubbly rosé wine, icy blueberry granita, and creamy coconut gelato. The sparkling wine cuts through some of the scoops' sweetness for a perfectly-balanced homemade drink for summer.

Pink Rhubarb Lemonade

Credit: Karla Conrad

These ruby red homemade drinks for summer are perfect for the entire family. Pink lemonade and lemon-lime soda will please the kiddos, while a unique rhubarb reduction will entice the adults. Instead of a stir stick, serve each glass with a stalk of rhubarb that's trimmed to be a couple inches taller than the serving vessel.

Pineapple-Cinnamon Margaritas

Credit: Andy Lyons

Lime and pineapple team up for a double dose of tropical goodness in one glass. Extra flavor-boosters like a cinnamon-sugar rim and orange liqueur make these island-inspired cocktails taste like a treat. For a mocktail version, try orange juice instead of Triple Sec and ginger ale in place of the tequila.

Buy It: TableCraft 3 Trays Glass Rimmer ($10, Target)

Cucumber Sangria

Credit: Karla Conrad

A chilled bottle of Sauvignon Blanc is the base for this thirst-quenching homemade drink for summer. Toss in sliced cucumber, honeydew melon, and mint leaves. Just before you're ready to say "cheers!" top off the white wine sangria with a bottle of sparkling water.

Buy It: Williams Sonoma Pitcher ($48, Williams Sonoma)

Bourbon Mint Iced Tea

Credit: Jessica Merchant

These refreshing summer cocktails mash together mint juleps and sweet tea in one party-ready punch. Orange and lemon juice, along with plenty of fresh mint, brighten the flavors in this bourbon drink. Serve in a punch bowl with an ice ring (lemon-studded if you please) or in a pitcher filled with large ice cubes.

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Credit: Blaine Moats

Hydration has never tasted better. Blended watermelon (opt for seedless to cut down on prep time) combined with lime juice, sugar, and water or club soda (the latter if you're a fizz fan!) makes a refreshing summer drink kids and adults alike can sip.

Piña Colada Smoothie

Pina Colada Smoothie

Credit: Karla Conrad

No summer vacation planned? No problem. Soft banana and juicy pineapple meet in this nonalcoholic version of the piña colada that will instantly transport you to a beach. With yogurt as the base, this tropical blended drink is nutritious enough to enjoy for breakfast.

Buy It: NutriBullet Blender Combo ($140, NutriBullet)

June Bug

Credit: Andy Lyons

Icy-cool scoops of sherbet give this refreshing, nonalcoholic drink a sweet finish, while grenadine and OJ pair up to create its pretty coral color. Complete this DIY summer drink with plenty of fizzy ginger ale. Kids will come running for refills.

Tequila Sunrise Margarita

Credit: Blaine Moats

All you need to make this refreshing summer cocktail is some triple sec, lime juice, and of course, tequila. A red-sugared rim gives it a fiery look. This cool summer drink is perfect for gatherings since you can easily stir together nine servings in one pitcher and chill until guests arrive.

Melon-Basil Sparkler

Credit: Blaine Moats

The best summer drinks highlight garden-fresh herbs and produce—and this shaken cocktail does both. Honeydew and basil give the sparkling wine-topped swigs their vibrant hue. Use a vegetable peeler to create elegant, thin strips of melon to line each glass.

Buy It: OXO Steel Single Wall Cocktail Shaker ($20, Target)

Summer Dream Sangria

Credit: Camille Simmons

Turn a bottle of rosé wine into a batch of easy summer drinks with this sunset-color sangria. Four fruits and a spoonful of rose water make this drink fit its seasonal name. Tuck a strawberry on the rim of each wine glass for a pretty garnish and sweet snack.

Related: The Best Summer Recipes to Add Fresh Flavors to Your Menu

Classic Margaritas

Credit: Andy Lyons

There's nothing better than a lip-smacking, salt-rimmed margarita. Fill your favorite summer drink with freshly squeezed lime juice to add authenticity.Instead of standard granulated sugar, stir in superfine or powdered sugar so it easily dissolves into the cocktail.

Buy It: Libbey Cactus Margarita Glasses, Set of 4 ($21, Walmart)

Citrus Shimmer Cocktail

Credit: Carson Downing

Enjoy a day in the sun with one of these fruity summer cocktails. The blend of limoncello (try making your own!), fresh orange juice, and chilled prosecco come together in minutes. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and sip away.

Rose Collins

Credit: Andy Lyons

A spoonful of bitter Campari liqueur tames the floral notes of rose in this poppy-orange cocktail. Sprinkle the lemon garnish with coarse sugar to balance out the tartness. This single-serving refreshing summer vodka drink is perfect for cooling off on a scorching-hot day.

Strawberry-Coconut Cream Soda

Strawberry Coconut Cream Soda

Credit: Andy Lyons

Indulge in this soda-shoppe sip at home with the help of coconut milk, club soda, sugar, and fresh strawberry slices. Serve the mocktail in chilled glasses to keep the dessert-like drink cooler longer. Serving adults only? Add a few shots of cream liqueur (such as RumChata) to the mix.

Make-Ahead Margaritas

Frozen Make Ahead margaritas

Credit: Matthew Clark

Move aside, margarita mix. You can prep these frozen summer drinks in just 10 minutes and have a batch of easy summer drinks ready to go for tomorrow's party. Come serving time, just take them out of the freezer and you'll be cooling down in no time. For a sweeter summer take, make with frozen strawberries.

Blackberry-Bourbon Lemonade

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade

Credit: Andy Lyons

A splash of sparkling lemonade gives these refreshing summer drinks their bubbly appeal. (Lemon-lime sparkling water works well, too, if you're watching your sugar intake.) Be sure to pour the syrup in last for dramatic color in every bourbon cocktail, then pop in a few berries for garnish.

Super Juice Spritzer

Credit: Andy Lyons

Cheers to your new go-to sparkling water-spiked cocktail. This vitamin-packed fruit and vegetable punch is ideal to serve during the transition from spring to summer. Carrot juice looks back to colder weather, while pineapple and peach look ahead to the warm days to come.

Related:Our Most Refreshing Smoothie Recipes to Beat the Heat

White Peach Sangria

Summertime White Peach Sangria

Credit: Matthew Clark

A light white wine sangria calls for a classic summer fruit: peaches! A blend of citrusy and sweet, this sangria will make your guests cheer when you break out a pitcher at your next party.

Test Kitchen Tip: Try this refreshing summer drink recipe with dry riesling, sauvignon blanc, Chenin blanc, or even Cava or Prosecco for a bubbly boost.

The Porcupine

Porcupine drink

Credit: Andy Lyons

Please wine and beer lovers alike with this "spiky" refreshing summer cocktail. Pineapple and fresh rosemary are the secret to getting your favorite sparkling white wine and pale ale to join forces. Seek out Prosecco, Cava, or Cremant for a more budget-friendly option than Champagne.

Related: Our Complete Guide to Champagne: Selecting, Serving, and Sipping

Green Tea Soda

Credit: Frances Janisch

Ditch the cans. You can make your very own fizzy concoction with home-brewed tea and sparkling water. Make your mocktail extra delicious by stirring in sliced stone fruit and fresh berries.

Carrot Lemonade

Credit: Melanie Acevedo

This sunny-orange lemonade is brimming with natural sweetness thanks to fresh carrots and pineapple juice. Plus, it's packed with vitamins A and C.If you prefer your sips on the sweeter side, use white grape juice as the base. For a more tart twist, start with pineapple juice.

Strawberry Agua Fresca

Credit: Blaine Moats

Agua fresca (literally "fresh water") flavored with strawberries and honey makes a fab light summer drink. Plus, it's nonalcoholic, so you can serve it to guests of all ages. Try this low-calorie, easy summer drink instead of lemonade at your next picnic.

Raspberry Mojito Punch

Raspberry-Mojito Punch

Credit: Peter Krumhardt

Keep cool with a glass of this raspberry-infused mojito. Fresh mint, raspberries, rum, sparkling water, and lime juice scream summer in a glass. If you want to keep the summer drink kid-friendly, simply omit the rum and increase the amount of sparkling water.

Up Next