Looking for something new for your next party? Or maybe you simply want to learn something new? No matter the cause – we have collected hundreds of delicious cocktail recipes from across the world. Learn from the best in the business and try the recipes to elevate your home bar to the next level.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out our tasteful non-alcoholic cocktail recipes – or simply try one of our easy cocktail recipes to make at home!

Our Latest Favourites

Want to explore what our experts has been mixing up in the Caskable kitchen? Below You’ll find our latest favourites and cocktail recipes that you can easily try at home!

Explore all Cocktail Recipes

Thirsty? Here at Caskable we’ve collected cocktail recipes in the hundreds – inspired by expert bartenders around the world. No matter if you’re looking for a classic Gin & Tonic, Old Fashioned or the perfect cocktail for your next party – we have the recipe for you. Start exploring our collection of recipes so you can shake, stir and pour away!

How to Make Cocktails: Your Ultimate Guide to Classic Drinks

Imagine hosting an unforgettable cocktail party, impressing your guests with crafted classic and unique cocktails, and creating lasting memories. This ultimate guide on how to make cocktails will equip you with the essential tools, techniques, and recipes to make that dream a reality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cocktail enthusiast, you’ll learn how to master the art of cocktail making and build a well-stocked home bar that caters to all tastes.

Essential Tools for Cocktail Making

The journey to crafting the perfect cocktail starts with equipping oneself with the right tools. Here are some essential tools for making delicious cocktails:

• Quality ice: Dry, thick, and solid ice that melts slowly to avoid excessive dilution.
• Chilled glass: Ensures the quality and pleasure of the cocktail experience.
• Shaking and stirring equipment: Includes cocktail shakers and mixing spoons.
• Measuring tools: Jiggers or measuring cups for accurate ingredient proportions.
• Muddling tools: Used to crush ingredients like herbs or fruits to release their flavors.
• Appropriate glassware selection: Different cocktails require different types of glasses.

With these tools, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious cocktails that will impress your guests.

The right tools can aid you in creating a range of delectable alcoholic drinks, including:

• Spicy ginger beer-laden cocktails
• Refreshing cocktails with orange liqueur
• Classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Vodka Martini
• Refreshing caffeinated cocktails

With a well-equipped home bar, creating these cocktails becomes an enjoyable and effortless experience.

Shaking and Stirring Equipment

Creating a perfectly mixed cocktail requires a mastery of two key techniques: stirring and shaking. Stirring is best for cocktails composed of only beverage alcohol, like martinis and manhattans, while shaking is ideal for cocktails containing juices, syrups, and liqueurs.

To prepare cocktails, you will need the following tools:

• A Boston shaker, a combination of a mixing glass and a metal tin, is essential for preparing all shaken and stirred cocktails.
• A julep strainer, with its perforated bowl shape, is perfect for straining stirred drinks.
• A Hawthorne strainer, featuring a metal coil wrapped around its bowl, is designed to strain shaken drinks and prevent citrus pulp from entering.

By mastering these techniques and using the right tools, you can create perfectly mixed cocktails every time.

The right shaking and stirring tools, such as a cocktail shaker, empower you to mix ingredients expertly, resulting in cocktails with balanced flavors and perfect chill. From a refreshing Tom Collins to a foamy Ramos Gin Fizz, mastering these techniques will have you shaking and stirring like a pro in no time.

Measuring and Muddling Tools

Cocktail making demands precision. Accurate measuring tools, such as jiggers, ensure that the relative proportion of ingredients is precise, resulting in a cocktail that tastes as desired. Jiggers come in various sizes, with the most commonly used being 30 ml (1 oz) and 15 ml (0.5 oz) for the top and bottom, respectively. Owning two straight-sided jiggers for a home bar is wise. They come in sizes of 22 / 45 ml (34 / 1.5 oz) and 15 / 30 ml (0.5 / 1 oz). This will allow you to make cocktails with precise measurements..

Muddlers, on the other hand, are essential for crushing ingredients like fruits, herbs, and sugar cubes to release their flavors in various cocktails. A Y peeler is also helpful for creating citrus twists for garnishes. With the right measuring and muddling tools, you’ll be able to create perfectly balanced and flavorful cocktails every time.

Glassware Selection

Choosing suitable glassware plays a key role in crafting cocktails that are both visually delightful and enjoyable to drink, as the visual aspect, form, material, mass, and equilibrium of the glass influence how we experience and consume the beverage contained within. The four essential glasses for a fully stocked home bar cocktail cabinet are:

1. Cocktail Glass
2. Highball Glass
3. Tumbler Glass
4. Champagne Flute

Coupes are used for drinks served “up,” rocks glasses for those served over ice, and Collins glasses for light-bodied drinks served long.

In addition to essential glasses, you can also consider specialist cocktail glassware like:

• Toddy Glass
• Margarita Glass
• Julep Tin
• Copper Mug

With the right glassware, you’ll be able to serve your cocktails in style and elevate the overall experience for your guests.

Basic Cocktail-Making Techniques

Equipped with the essential tools, you’re now ready to explore the fundamental techniques of cocktail making. From building and stirring to shaking and garnishing, mastering these techniques will enable you to create a wide variety of classic cocktails with ease. Using quality ingredients and following the proper techniques not only ensures a well-balanced and visually appealing cocktail, but also elevates the overall experience for you and your guests.

Whether you’re creating a classic Old Fashioned, a sophisticated Vodka Martini, or a refreshing caffeinated cocktail, understanding the basic techniques and following a good cocktail recipe will allow you to craft delightful drinks with confidence. In this process, you’ll be mixing a unique “word cocktail” that describes each drink’s character and taste.

Now, let’s delve deeper into these techniques.

Building Cocktails

The first step in cocktail creation is building the drink, which involves combining the components directly into the serving glass or shaker. The process is straightforward, where the ingredients are poured one on top of the other without further processing. The beverage can be stirred or mixed delicately with a spoon if necessary. A generous amount of ice is essential for a colder drink, ensuring that the ice remains intact for a longer period, reducing dilution of the cocktail as it is consumed over time.

From a classic Vodka Martini to a refreshing caffeinated cocktail, the building technique sets the foundation for an enjoyable and perfectly mixed drink. Paying attention to the order of ingredients and the use of high-quality components will ensure a delectable and visually appealing cocktail every time.

Stirring and Shaking

Stirring and shaking form the cornerstone of cocktail making techniques. Stirring a cocktail should be done in a slow and delicate manner, utilizing a bar spoon or a chopstick to combine the components without excessively aerating them. This technique is best for cocktails composed of only beverage alcohol, like martinis and manhattans.

Shaking, on the other hand, is ideal for cocktails containing juices, syrups, and liqueurs. The “wet shake” is a technique of shaking a cocktail with ice. Whereas the “dry shake” involves shaking without using any ice. Wet shaking following dry shaking is employed to reduce temperature and dilute the components.

Mastering the art of stirring and shaking will allow you to create perfectly mixed cocktails with a balanced flavor profile and the right temperature. Whether you’re crafting a classic Old Fashioned or a refreshing caffeinated cocktail, these techniques will ensure an enjoyable and memorable drinking experience.

Garnishing Tips

Garnishing serves as an integral part of the cocktail-making process, providing color, taste accentuation, and vibrancy to a cocktail. Properly cutting a citrus twist for a cocktail garnish starts with:

1. A clean, washed piece of fruit with an appealing color and sufficient surface area.
2. Using a Y-peeler, begin at the top of the fruit and pull toward yourself at a diagonal to produce a lengthy, wide twist.
3. The twist can be left as is or trimmed down to the desired dimensions.

From citrus fruits and cocktail cherries to herbs and edible flowers, garnishes add that extra touch of flair and flavor to your drinks. Preparing garnishes in advance and having them ready before combining ingredients with ice is essential to completing and serving the drink promptly, avoiding excessive dilution as the ice melts. With the right garnishes, you’ll elevate your cocktails to new heights, impressing your guests and enhancing the overall drinking experience.

Classic Cocktail Recipes

With essential tools and techniques at your disposal, it’s time to delve into some timeless classic cocktail recipes. These timeless drinks, including the Old Fashioned, Martini, and Mojito, are the perfect starting point for any aspiring cocktail enthusiast.

Now, let’s get into these recipes and master the art of creating these iconic beverages effortlessly.

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey-based cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. To create this timeless drink, follow these steps:

1. Combine 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and a few dashes of bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir the ingredients until well mixed.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass with a large ice cube.
4. Garnish with an orange slice or a cherry for a touch of color and flavor.

Enjoy your Old Fashioned cocktail, try our Irish coffee, or indulge in a refreshing cocktail!

Experiment with different types of whiskey or add a dash of your favorite liqueur to personalize and perfect your Old Fashioned. With high-quality ingredients and careful attention to detail, you’ll be able to create a memorable cocktail that will impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.

Martini

The Martini is an iconic cocktail that can be made with either gin or vodka, showcasing the spirit’s flavors alongside the dry vermouth. To make a classic Martini, combine 2 ounces of gin or vodka, 1 ounce of dry vermouth, and a few drops of orange bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass, then garnish with olives or a lemon twist.

Explore variations of the Martini, such as the Negroni, which features gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, or the Dirty Martini, which adds olive brine to the mix. With the right ingredients and serving techniques, you can create a Martini that suits your taste and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Mojito

The Mojito is a refreshing rum-based cocktail, perfect for warm summer days or adding a touch of brightness to any occasion. To make a Mojito, follow these steps:

1. Muddle fresh mint leaves in a glass.
2. Add white rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Top with soda water for a fizzy, invigorating finish.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a lime wedge for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Mojito!

For a less boozy option, reduce the amount of rum and substitute it with soda water. With high-quality ingredients and attention to detail, you can create a Mojito that’s both delicious and visually appealing, sure to impress your guests and transport them to a tropical paradise.

Stocking Your Home Bar

Having a well-stocked home bar sets the stage for crafting unforgettable cocktail experiences. From essential spirits and liqueurs to mixers and fresh ingredients, having a variety of options at your disposal allows you to create cocktails that cater to all tastes and preferences. Organizing your home bar and selecting high-quality ingredients will ensure that your creations taste as good as they look.

Besides spirits and liqueurs, remember that cocktail garnishes and extras are important for amplifying both the presentation and flavor of your cocktails. From citrus fruits and herbs to edible flowers, the right garnishes can transform an ordinary drink into a work of art.

Spirits and Liqueurs

The foundation of any great home bar is a selection of essential spirits and liqueurs. Must-haves include:

• gin
• vodka
• light rum
• tequila
• bourbon
• rye
• blended Scotch
• brandy
• dry white vermouth
• sweet red vermouth

With these staples on hand, you’ll be able to create a wide variety of classic cocktails, from a refreshing Tom Collins to a sophisticated Vodka Martini.

When selecting spirits and liqueurs, consider the types of cocktails you plan to make and the preferences of your guests. Opt for high-quality options that will enhance the flavor of your creations and elevate the overall drinking experience.

With a well-stocked home bar, you’ll be prepared to craft memorable cocktails for any occasion.

Mixers and Fresh Ingredients

Selecting the best mixers and fresh ingredients for your cocktails is just as important as choosing the right spirits and liqueurs. High-quality, fresh ingredients, such as juices, syrups, and herbs, can significantly impact the flavor and enjoyment of your cocktails. Popular mixers like club soda, tonic water, ginger ale, cola, and lemon-lime soda are essential for creating a variety of drinks.

When selecting mixers and fresh ingredients, opt for options that are in season and complement the flavor profile of your cocktails. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with unique combinations to create unforgettable drinks that will leave your guests wanting more.

Garnishes and Extras

Garnishes and extras play a crucial role in enhancing the presentation and flavor of your cocktails. Essential garnishes include:

• Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges for twists, wheels, or wedges
• Maraschino cherries
• Cocktail olives
• Cocktail onions

Other fruits, such as grapefruits, can also add a touch of color and flavor to your drinks, just like fresh lemon juice and regular lemon juice.

In addition to fruits, consider using herbs, spices, and edible flowers for a unique and visually appealing presentation. These garnishes can add flavor and color to your cocktails while making them more aesthetically pleasing. With the right garnishes and extras, you can create an impressive and memorable cocktail experience for your guests.

Cocktail Party Tips

Pulling off a successful cocktail party demands meticulous planning and a keen eye for detail. From selecting a variety of cocktails to suit your guests’ preferences to ensuring the drinks are properly mixed and presented, a well-executed cocktail party can create lasting memories and impress your guests. With expert advice on drink menu planning, batch mixing, and presentation, you’ll be well-prepared to host a memorable cocktail party.

Regardless of the size of your event, be it an intimate gathering or a grand party, these cocktail party tips will assist you in crafting a smooth and enjoyable experience for your guests. So, raise a glass and toast to your newfound cocktail expertise and the many memorable moments you’ll create.

Planning Your Drink Menu

Selecting a variety of cocktails for your party ensures that there’s something for everyone’s taste. It’s recommended to maintain a straightforward drink menu, with approximately three to four drink options. Include a mix of classic cocktails, such as a Vodka Martini, and unique creations that showcase your personal flair. Creating a signature drink or two is an effective way to add a personal touch to your event.

When planning your drink menu, take into account the preferences of your guests and the season. Offering a range of options will ensure that each guest finds a beverage they enjoy, making your party a hit with everyone in attendance.

Batch Mixing and Prepping

Making cocktails ahead of time and in large quantities offers a convenient way of serving drinks at your party, saving time and energy while ensuring consistent quality. Here’s how to do it:

1. Measure the ingredients.
2. Combine them together.
3. Preserve the mixture in a sealed receptacle.
4. Be sure to consume the mixture within a few days of being prepared to maintain freshness.

Batch mixing and prepping allows you to focus on your guests and enjoy the party, rather than spending all your time mixing individual cocktails. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests, allowing you to savor the moment and create lasting memories.

Presentation and Serving

Serving your cocktails with panache can leave an enduring impression on your guests and enhance their overall drinking experience. Choosing the right glassware, garnishes, and serving techniques is crucial for making your cocktails look as good as they taste. Ensure that you use appropriate glassware for each cocktail, and add a garnish that complements the flavor of the drink.

When serving cocktails, make sure they are at the appropriate temperature and properly mixed. Attention to detail in presentation and serving cocktails can transform an ordinary drink into an extraordinary experience, leaving your guests impressed and eager for another round.

Summary

Throughout this ultimate guide to classic drinks, you’ve learned the essential tools and techniques for crafting cocktails, explored timeless recipes, and discovered expert tips for hosting a successful cocktail party. With this newfound knowledge, you’re well-equipped to create memorable cocktail experiences at home, impressing your guests and delighting their taste buds. So, raise your glass and toast to your cocktail-making prowess. Cheers to the many unforgettable moments you’ll create and the lasting memories you’ll share.

Frequently Asked Questions