If you’re hosting a summer BBQ, offering a range of refreshing cookout beverages is key. Guests stay cool and happy with choices from sweet lemonade to fancy cocktails. These innovative cookout drink ideas can make your party stand out.
Whether you prefer non-alcoholic drinks for the family or fancy cocktails for friends, this guide has it all. You’ll learn about new trends. Make your BBQ drinks memorable and yummy for everyone.
Introduction to Cookout Drinks
Making sure everyone at your event is happy and refreshed is key. When planning cookout drink essentials, balancing alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices is important. Include water and lemonade to keep everyone hydrated.
Creating the perfect outdoor party drink basics mixes ease with taste. Choose drinks that are simple to serve and meet various dietary needs. Options like infused waters, sodas, and iced teas are popular. Cookout’s over 40 milkshake flavors are a favorite among guests of all ages.
Here’s a glance at some classic picks from Cookout:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Coca-Cola Beverages (16 oz) | 160 | $2.19 |
| Coca-Cola Beverages (24 oz) | 240 | $2.39 |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Large – 24 oz) | 290 | $2.19 |
| Fresh Brewed Tea (Huge – 32 oz) | 390 | $2.39 |
| Cheerwine (16 oz) | 150 | $2.39 |
| Fresh Brewed Sweet Tea (24 oz) | 290 | $2.19 |
| Dasani Water (20 oz) | 0 | $2.39 |
| Regular Coke Float (16 oz) | 240 | $2.39 |
| Regular Cheerwine Float (16 oz) | 220 | $2.39 |
Cookout offers a wide range of drinks to match any taste, making it perfect for outdoor party drink basics. Our goal is to create a menu that not only satisfies thirst but enhances your summer festivities.
Top Non-Alcoholic Drink Ideas for Cookouts
Non-alcoholic drinks are essential for any cookout. They offer refreshment for guests of all ages. You can choose from infused waters, homemade lemonade, and iced tea ideas for BBQ. These options are both delicious and perfect for any gathering.
Infused Water
Infused water is a healthy choice that adds flavor to plain water. You can use fruits, herbs, and spices. Lemon-cucumber-mint and strawberry-basil are popular combinations. This tasty option keeps you hydrated without any added sugars.
Lemonade Variations
Lemonade comes in many flavors, like raspberry, mint, and ginger. With homemade recipes, you can make drinks that everyone will love. Lemonade, a summer cookout staple, can suit any taste.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Lemonade | 120 | $3 |
| Raspberry Lemonade | 150 | $3.50 |
| Mint Lemonade | 130 | $3.25 |
| Ginger Lemonade | 140 | $3.35 |
Iced Tea Recipes
Iced tea can be sweet or unsweetened, adding a refreshing touch. Try it with lemon, mint, or even jasmine and honey. Endless iced tea combinations make it a versatile drink. It’s great on its own or mixed into spritzers.
Fruit Punch Options
Fruit punches mix juices with sparkling water or soda for a fun drink. Try pineapple-orange-strawberry or watermelon-lime combos. They’re as pretty as they are tasty. Plus, adding fresh fruit garnish makes them even more festive.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple-Orange-Strawberry Punch | 160 | $4 |
| Watermelon-Lime Punch | 140 | $3.75 |
| Mango-Basil Spritz | 120 | $3.80 |
| Chamomile-Turmeric Punch | 110 | $3.90 |
In summary, a variety of non-alcoholic drinks can make your cookout a hit. These choices meet everyone’s taste while being healthier and fun. From customized lemonades to unique iced teas, your options are both endless and exciting.
Refreshing Cookout Cocktails
Summer is perfect for enjoying exciting cookout cocktails at outdoor gatherings. These drinks mix fun and sophistication, making your BBQ a hit. Favorites like icy margaritas, vibrant mojitos, sangrias, and spiked lemonades are great. These easy recipes are sure to impress your guests and keep them cool.
On hot days, refreshing alcoholic drinks are a must with grilled foods. Mojitos and margaritas, especially the frozen kind, are loved by many. They match well with roasted meats and marinades. For wine lovers, sangrias with fruits are perfect.
Spiked lemonades add a twist to a summer classic. You can choose from simple vodka lemonade to complex bourbon versions. These drinks are great with grilled chicken, seafood, and spicy sausages.
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mojito | Fresh mint, lime juice, rum | 150 | $5.00 |
| Frozen Margarita | Tequila, lime juice, triple sec | 200 | $6.00 |
| Sangria | Red wine, seasonal fruits, brandy | 180 | $7.00 |
| Spiked Lemonade | Lemonade, vodka, mint | 160 | $5.00 |
| Pina Colada | Coconut cream, pineapple juice, rum | 250 | $6.50 |
| Rum Punch | Rum, fruit juices, grenadine | 220 | $6.00 |
| Whiskey Sour | Whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup | 150 | $5.50 |
| Mai Tai | Rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, orange liqueur | 200 | $7.00 |
| Tequila Sunrise | Tequila, orange juice, grenadine | 190 | $5.50 |
| Bloody Mary | Vodka, tomato juice, spices | 180 | $6.00 |
| Mint Julep | Bourbon, mint, sugar | 170 | $5.50 |
| Gin and Tonic | Gin, tonic water, lime | 150 | $5.00 |
| Moscow Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, lime juice | 160 | $6.00 |
| Paloma | Tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice | 180 | $5.50 |
| Cuba Libre | Rum, cola, lime | 150 | $5.00 |
There are many options, so everyone can find something they like. Adding these easy BBQ cocktail recipes to your menu will make your event memorable.
Best Practices for Batch Cocktails
Creating cocktails in batches can make hosting big parties easier. It allows you to serve drinks quickly with less work during the party. By making drinks ahead of time, you can spend more time with your friends. Here are some top tips for great batch cocktails.
Simple and Make-Ahead Recipes
For parties, choose simple, make-ahead cocktail recipes. Pick recipes that taste great even when made in large quantities. You can mix most cocktails up to a day ahead. This lets the flavors mix well.
For example, make Spanish sangria early so the fruit flavors can blend into the wine. Adding things like soda and bitters right before serving keeps drinks fresh. This makes your drinks taste better and saves time on the day of your event.
Serving in Highball or Pint Glasses
Using the right glasses is key for serving batch cocktails. Highball or pint glasses work well because they’re easy to handle. Keep spirits cold by storing them in the freezer. Make fresh juices on the day to keep them from spoiling.
Having lots of ice is also important. You can prepare ice in zipper-lock bags ahead of time. The right way to serve drinks can really improve your guests’ enjoyment.
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Margarita | Cocktail | 150 | $5 |
| Mai Tai | Cocktail | 200 | $7 |
| Moscow Mule | Cocktail | 180 | $6 |
| Old Fashioned | Cocktail | 160 | $5 |
| Sangria | Cocktail | 120 | $4 |
| Pina Colada | Cocktail | 230 | $6 |
| Whiskey Sour | Cocktail | 160 | $5 |
| Lynchburg Lemonade | Cocktail | 140 | $5 |
| Tom Collins | Cocktail | 160 | $5 |
| Tequila Sunrise | Cocktail | 190 | $6 |
| Bellini | Cocktail | 120 | $5 |
| Paloma | Cocktail | 120 | $5 |
| Negroni | Cocktail | 200 | $6 |
| Mint Julep | Cocktail | 170 | $6 |
| Zombie | Cocktail | 230 | $7 |
Using these tips for batch cocktails can make your parties more fun. It lets you serve tasty drinks easily. This way, everyone can enjoy the party without worrying about making drinks all the time.
Refreshing and Versatile Sangrias
Sangrias can make any cookout special. They mix intense flavors with beautiful colors. Using easy recipes, you can make red and white sangrias with fruits that match the season. This will make your party even better. Here you’ll find great recipes and tips for making sangrias with both kinds of wine and fresh fruits.
Red Sangria with Seasonal Fruits
Everyone loves red sangria for its deep, rich taste. For the best mix, use Spanish wines, Merlot, or Pinot Noir. These wines mix well with bright, fresh fruits. Here’s how to make a special red sangria:
| Item Name | Calories | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir) | 125 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Vodka | 64 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Summer Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries) | 45 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Lemon-Lime Soda | 10 | No | Yes | None |
Start with ¾ cup of vodka and ¼ cup sugar. Add ½ cup of different berries. Then pour in 2 cups of lemon-lime soda and your wine. If you like it fruity, use more berries. Make it a few hours before the party for the best taste.
White Wine Sangria
White sangrias offer a lighter option. Try using Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay for this. They’re light and crisp, nicely matching many fruits.
| Item Name | Calories | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio) | 123 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Vodka | 64 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Summer Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries) | 45 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Lemon-Lime Soda | 10 | No | Yes | None |
Mix ¾ cup of vodka and ¼ cup sugar with some berries. Add 2 cups of soda and your wine. Letting it sit for a few hours will make it taste better.
These sangria recipes are both easy and flexible. You can use red or white wine and add seasonal fruits. They’ll be a hit at your cookout, for sure.
Popular Beers and Wines for Cookouts
Picking the right beers and wines can make your cookout better. Most people like beer at BBQs. It’s key to choose the right kind. Light beers, refreshing ales, and craft IPAs match grilled dishes well.
Pilsners, such as Kona Brewing Co. Longboard Island Lager, are great with light foods like hot dogs. American breweries are doing great with Kölsch-style beers, too. They offer a clean, smooth drink.
When it comes to wine at BBQs, choose white and rosé over red. Rosé is the top pick for summer events. Pick wines that stay cold, like a big bottle of rosé or white wine on ice. This keeps the wine nice and cool. Sparkling wines aren’t usually chosen because they can go flat.
Below is a table showing popular beers and wines for cookouts. It includes prices and calories:
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kona Brewing Co. Longboard Island Lager | Beer | 120 | $10.99 (6-pack) |
| 2SP Delco Lager | Beer | 155 | $11.99 (6-pack) |
| Firestone Walker Union Jack IPA | Beer | 200 | $12.99 (6-pack) |
| Neshaminy Creek Summer Dollars Sour Ale | Beer | 150 | $13.49 (6-pack) |
| North Coast Brewing Co. Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout | Beer | 250 | $12.99 (4-pack) |
| Schofferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen | Beer | 130 | $8.99 (4-pack) |
| Sixpoint Apollo | Beer | 160 | $10.99 (6-pack) |
| Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo | Wine | 123 | $15.99 (750ml) |
| Grilled Spiked Lemonade | Cocktail | 190 | $8.00 (glass) |
| Cointreau Fizz | Cocktail | 120 | $8.50 (glass) |
| Limoncello Gin Collins | Cocktail | 140 | $9.00 (glass) |
| Fernet with Cocas | Cocktail | 150 | $9.50 (glass) |
| John Daly | Cocktail | 180 | $9.00 (glass) |
| White Wine (Chilled) | Wine | 123 | $13.99 (750ml) |
| Rosé Wine (Chilled) | Wine | 120 | $14.99 (750ml) |
IPAs are popular for a reason. Take Firestone Walker Union Jack IPA, for instance. It’s a top West Coast IPA. Looking for something different? Try Neshaminy Creek Summer Dollars Sour Ale. It has blood orange and sea salt. For a rich taste, go for North Coast Brewing Co. Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout. It goes well with quality grilled meats.
Delicious Mocktails for All Ages
Try serving virgin mojitos and non-alcoholic piña coladas at your next party. Everyone can enjoy these sophisticated, fun drinks. They taste just like the alcoholic versions but without the alcohol. This makes them great for people who can’t or don’t want to drink alcohol.
Virgin Mojitos
Virgin mojitos are perfect for any event. They mix sparkling water, lime juice, mint leaves, and simple syrup. This creates a refreshing and hydrating drink. It’s perfect for hot days and easy to make, so the whole family can have fun with it.
Non-Alcoholic Piña Coladas
Make your friends feel like they’re at the beach with non-alcoholic piña coladas. They blend coconut milk, pineapple juice, and ice for a smooth taste. Everyone, kids included, can enjoy this creamy drink. It keeps the famous piña colada taste but is safe for all ages.
Cookout Drink Menu: Tips for Presentation and Serving
Creating a great cookout isn’t just about what drinks you serve. How you present and serve them can make your event stand out. By adding some creativity to your drink serving, you can turn a simple station into the star of the show. This makes the time spent together even more special for everyone.
Choosing unique and colorful glassware can start things off right. Using mason jars for cocktails or retro bottles for lemonades can make a big difference. Adding garnishes like mint, citrus slices, or edible flowers looks great. It also makes the drinks taste even better.
A good cookout setup is both practical and eye-catching. Using drink dispensers helps guests serve themselves, which is great for big groups. Fill them with colorful juices, iced teas, or infused waters. This keeps everyone happy, including those who prefer not to drink alcohol. Offering a wide choice of food makes sure all dietary needs are met, making your cookout a hit.
Seasonal fruits can make your drinks stand out. Many guests love seeing and tasting fresh, seasonal ingredients in their food. Why not do the same with your drinks? Try making Frozen Watermelon Margaritas or Sangria Slushies to add a seasonal touch. This will surely refresh and impress your guests.
Adding interactive elements to your cookout can make it more fun. A lot of people like to get involved in making their food. A DIY drink station lets guests make their own drinks with various mixers, fruits, and herbs. This not only makes the event more engaging but also improves everyone’s experience.
When setting up your drinks, make sure everything is easy to get to and looks inviting. Having several drink stations can reduce waiting times. Labels and simple instructions help everyone make their drinks without confusion. Following these tips will keep your drinks tasting great and looking amazing. Plus, they’ll help make your cookout unforgettable.
Conclusion
As you finish planning your cookout menus, remember the importance of drinks. They truly shape the party’s feel and fun. Offering both non-alcoholic drinks like flavored waters and lemonades, and alcohol options such as cocktails and sangrias, matters. The right choice can boost your party’s mood.
We’ve looked at many drink options for different tastes and needs. There’s something for everyone. Fruit punch and iced tea are great for kids and adults. For the adults, cocktails and select beers and wines add a sophisticated touch. These drinks are sure to make your cookout a hit.
Serving drinks in a thoughtful manner makes a big impression. Also, knowing about allergies and dietary preferences shows you care. A well-chosen drink menu does more than complement the food. It improves the social vibe and makes your outdoor parties unforgettable.
FAQ
What are some refreshing non-alcoholic beverages for a cookout?
Try infused waters, various lemonades, iced teas, and fruit punches at your cookout. They’re great for hydration and everyone will love them. Add fresh fruits and herbs to make them even more refreshing.
What are the best cookout drinks for a summer party?
Go for iced margaritas, mojitos, sangrias, and spiked lemonades in the summer. They’re the perfect mix of flavor and coolness, ideal for hot weather and BBQ foods.
How can I efficiently serve cocktails at a backyard BBQ?
Batch cocktails are your best bet for easy serving at a cookout. Mix them in large amounts beforehand and keep in dispensers or pitchers. This way, you can serve them quickly in glasses.
What are some popular outdoor party drinks?
People love sangrias, margaritas, mojitos, and also non-alcoholic options like virgin mojitos and piña coladas for outdoor events. They’re loved by guests and great for any outdoor party.
How can I make a versatile sangria for my grill-out?
Sangrias can be made with red or white wine, and adding seasonal fruits makes them taste great. Let them sit for a few hours before the party for a deeper flavor.
What types of beers and wines are best for a cookout?
Choose light beers and refreshing ales for cookouts; they go well with BBQ dishes. For wines, try rosé, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir. They pair well with both meats and veggies, making them versatile options.
