As summer lingers on, there’s still plenty of time to savor the sunshine with some refreshing beer-based cocktails. Whether you’re by the beach or hosting a backyard get-together, these cocktails blend the crispness of craft beer with the zest of summer flavors. Here are five recipes to make the most of the season before it ends.
1. Beer Mojito
Bring a twist to the classic mojito with this Beer Mojito. The combination of mint, lime, and craft beer makes for a refreshing and unique drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients
- 1 can of Salt Flats Brewery Flat Out Hefeweizen
- 1 oz white rum
- 1 tbsp simple syrup
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup.
- Add ice and pour in the white rum.
- Top with the Hefeweizen.
- Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of club soda.
2. Citrus Beer Shandy
The Citrus Beer Shandy is a refreshing blend of lemonade and craft beer, making it the ideal drink for a sunny beach day or a backyard barbecue. It’s light, zesty, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of Roughtail Brewing Co Nada Nada Fruited Sour
- 1 cup lemonade
- Slices of lemon and lime for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the lemonade.
- Top with the fruited sour beer.
- Stir gently and garnish with lemon and lime slices.
Pro Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemonade for a more vibrant flavor.
3. Spicy Michelada
Give your summer gatherings a spicy kick with this Spicy Michelada. Combining beer with tomato juice and a dash of hot sauce, this cocktail is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of Texas Leaguer Brewing Co 2 Hopper IPA
- 1/2 cup tomato juice
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 dashes hot sauce
- 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and chili powder for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge and celery stick for garnish
Instructions
- Rim a glass with salt and chili powder.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add tomato juice, lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Top with the IPA.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge and celery stick.
Pro Tip: Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
4. Beer Margarita
Mix things up with a Beer Margarita. This cocktail brings together the tangy flavors of a traditional margarita with the crispness of craft beer, making it a delightful and refreshing option for summer.
Ingredients
- 1 can of Lakewood Brewing Company Lakewood Lager
- 1 oz tequila
- 1 oz triple sec
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Rim a glass with salt.
- Fill a shaker with ice and add tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
- Shake well and strain into the glass.
- Top with the lager.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tip: For a frozen version, blend the ingredients with ice before adding the beer.
5. Raspberry Beer Punch
Add a fruity twist to your summer drinks with Raspberry Beer Punch. This cocktail is a sweet and tangy combination of raspberry lemonade and craft beer, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of Roughtail Brewing Co City IPA
- 1 cup raspberry lemonade
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- In a pitcher, combine the raspberry lemonade and fresh raspberries.
- Add ice and pour in the IPA.
- Stir gently.
- Serve in glasses and garnish with mint leaves.
Pro Tip: Muddle some raspberries at the bottom of the pitcher for an extra burst of flavor.
Why Use Craft Beer in Cocktails?
Unique Flavor Profiles
Craft beers offer a wide range of unique and complex flavors, from fruity and sour notes to hoppy and bitter profiles. These distinct tastes can enhance your cocktails, adding depth and character that mass-produced beers can't match.
Higher Quality Ingredients
Craft brewers often use higher quality ingredients, which translates to better taste and aroma in your cocktails. The freshness and richness of craft beer can elevate your drink to a whole new level.
Versatility
Craft beers come in many styles and flavors, making them incredibly versatile for cocktail recipes. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing base or a strong and bold addition, there's a craft beer that fits the bill.
Supporting Local Breweries
By choosing craft beers, you're supporting local breweries and small businesses. It's a great way to enjoy delicious cocktails while helping others and contributing to your community's economy.
Cheers to Summer's Great Moments!
Beer-based cocktails are perfect for summer gatherings, offering a refreshing twist on traditional drinks. Experiment with these recipes and find your favorite combinations. Cheers to a summer filled with fun and flavor, and cherish these sunny days!
Ready to try these refreshing beer-based cocktails? Grab your favorite craft beers from the Craft Beer Club and start mixing!