18 Refreshing Sour Mix Recipes Perfect for Summer
As the temperatures rise and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to quench your thirst. This summer, why not try something new and exciting? We’ve gathered 18 delicious sour mix recipes that are sure to become your new go-to drinks for warm weather gatherings. From classic lemon-lime combinations to spicy ginger-infused twists and fruity berry-based concoctions, there’s a flavor profile here to suit every taste.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of sour mixes, showcasing a range of recipes that incorporate everything from citrus fruits to herbs and spices. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a pick-me-up after a long day at the beach, these 18 refreshing sour mix recipes are sure to hit the spot. So grab your shaker, grab your glass, and get ready to sip into summer in style!
Classic Lemon-Lime Sour Mix Cocktail
A refreshing twist on the classic sour mix cocktail, this recipe combines the tangy flavors of lemon and lime with a touch of sweetness. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a citrusy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon and lime juices.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the water and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None. This cocktail is a simple mix that can be prepared ahead of time.
Spicy Ginger Sour Mix Margarita
Elevate your margarita game with this spicy twist! This recipe combines the warmth of ginger with the boldness of jalapeño peppers to create a unique and tantalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 oz sour mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1-2 dashes jalapeño pepper syrup (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, ginger liqueur, simple syrup, and sour mix.
3. Add jalapeño pepper syrup to taste (start with 1 dash and adjust to desired level of heat).
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain into prepared glass and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix, shake, and serve!
Tropical Pineapple Sour Mix Punch
A refreshing twist on a classic punch, this Tropical Pineapple Sour Mix combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of sour mix and a hint of tropical flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup sour mix
– 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced fresh pineapple and cherry garnishes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice and lemon-lime soda.
2. Add sour mix and stir until dissolved.
3. Add grenadine syrup and simple syrup; stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with sliced fresh pineapple and cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Citrus Orange Sour Mix Mojito
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this Citrus Orange Sour Mix Mojito combines the brightness of citrus with the tanginess of sour mix for a drink that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz sour mix
– Handful of ice
– Sprigs of fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint sprigs with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavors.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, orange juice, simple syrup, and sour mix to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with additional mint sprigs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Herbal Mint Sour Mix Cooler
Revive your spirits with this refreshing twist on the classic sour mix cooler. This herbal mint variation combines the tanginess of citrus with the soothing properties of herbs and a hint of coolness from peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup mixed citrus juice (orange, lemon, lime)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the citrus juice and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavors.
3. Add the dried calendula petals to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Fill the pitcher with ice cubes.
5. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Servings: 4-6
Berry Blast Sour Mix Sangria
A refreshing twist on traditional sangria, this Berry Blast recipe combines the sweetness of mixed berries with a hint of citrus and a splash of sparkling water.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (chardonnay or sauvignon blanc work well)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– Slices of orange and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, mixed berries, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the freshly squeezed orange juice and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
5. Slice the remaining orange and lemon into thin wheels and use as garnishes.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is served chilled, so simply chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cucumber Lime Sour Mix Spritzer
A refreshing twist on a classic spritzer, this recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and lime with the tanginess of sour mix. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/2 cup sour mix
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber, for garnish
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher or jug with ice cubes, if desired.
2. Add the sour mix and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour in the fresh lime juice and stir to combine.
4. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds and add them to the pitcher.
5. Top the mixture off with sparkling water.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately and garnish each glass with a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Honey Lavender Sour Mix Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy twist on a classic fizzy drink. The combination of honey, lavender, and citrus will transport you to a sunny day in the garden.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60ml) gin
– 1 oz (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz (15ml) honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz (7.5ml) lavender syrup (see note)
– 3 oz (90ml) soda water
– Ice
– Lemon twist or lavender sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, honey syrup, and lavender syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or lavender sprig.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Grapefruit Rosemary Sour Mix Paloma
This recipe puts a unique spin on the classic Paloma cocktail by incorporating the tangy sweetness of grapefruit and the herbaceousness of rosemary. The result is a refreshing, citrusy drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grapefruit juice
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1 1/2 ounces tequila
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and lime juice. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add rosemary-infused simple syrup and stir to combine.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour 1 1/2 ounces of tequila over the ice.
4. Rim glasses with salt.
5. Top with grapefruit-rosemary sour mix and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe.
Vanilla Bean Sour Mix Sour
A refreshing twist on the classic sour mix, this recipe adds a touch of creamy vanilla bean flavor to your cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
– 1 cup club soda
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the simple syrup, lime juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla bean paste and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Pomegranate Sour Mix Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Sour Mix Martini, perfect for warm weather or any occasion. The combination of pomegranate juice, citrus, and vodka creates a tangy and fruity flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz pomegranate juice
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 dash of citrus bitters
– Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Add a dash of citrus bitters on top.
6. Garnish with pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None
Peach Basil Sour Mix Smash
Get ready to blend up a refreshing twist on the classic sour mix cocktail with the addition of sweet peaches and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Peach puree
– 1 oz Fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup
– 1/2 oz Basil-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Lime wheel and fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, peach puree, lime juice, simple syrup, and basil-infused simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
4. Top with a splash of soda water.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a few fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Raspberry Lemon Sour Mix Collins
This recipe combines the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of raspberries, creating a unique and delicious cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Raspberry syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 oz Sparkling water
– Lemon twist or raspberry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or raspberry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Coconut Lime Sour Mix Daiquiri
A refreshing twist on the classic daiquiri, this cocktail combines the creamy richness of coconut with the zesty brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– Splash of club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Pour in coconut cream and stir gently to combine.
6. Top with a splash of club soda.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cherry Almond Sour Mix Sour
A refreshing twist on the classic sour mix, this recipe combines sweet cherry flavor with nutty almond notes to create a unique and tasty cocktail. Perfect for warm weather sipping or as a flavorful addition to your favorite drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup triple sec
– 1/2 cup cherry juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon citric acid
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the triple sec, cherry juice, and simple syrup.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract and citric acid.
4. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (simmering time only)
Passionfruit Sour Mix Margarita
Elevate your margarita game with this tropical twist, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz passionfruit sour mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
– Ice
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, passionfruit sour mix, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Blood Orange Sour Mix Cosmopolitan
A twist on the classic Cosmopolitan cocktail, this Blood Orange Sour Mix version adds a vibrant and tangy flavor profile. Perfect for those who crave a little more acidity and a pop of color in their drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Vodka
– 3/4 oz Triple Sec
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3/4 oz Sour mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Triple Sec, blood orange juice, simple syrup, and sour mix.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Lemongrass Ginger Sour Mix Cooler
Combine the zesty flavors of lemongrass and ginger with a refreshing twist on the classic sour mix cooler.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz lemongrass syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Splash of club soda
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, lemongrass syrup, and ginger liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with simple syrup and stir gently.
6. Add a splash of club soda and stir briefly.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing sour mix recipes! From classic cocktails to fruity twists, we’ve got you covered. Try making a Classic Lemon-Lime Sour Mix Cocktail or a Spicy Ginger Sour Mix Margarita for a spicy kick. For something sweeter, whip up a Tropical Pineapple Sour Mix Punch or a Berry Blast Sour Mix Sangria. With over 18 recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect drink to quench your thirst and cool off on a hot summer day.