Ultimate Summer BBQ Cocktails
I’m all about effortless entertaining… the kind when you can prep everything ahead of time so you can truly enjoy your time with your friends. You guys know, how much T and I love to host our friends and family! So, whether you’re firing up the BBQ (it’s on like 300 days a year at our house!), gathering for a girls night or hosting friends as the sun dips low, these cocktails are batchable by the jug, so you can scale up depending on how many guests you have! Ideal for a BBQ but honestly minimal effort and maximum good viiiiibes.
Ok so before we get into the recipes, don’t forget about how to serve your cocktails! I love pairing drinks
Serve in Style: Homeware Picks:
I cannot resist plugging my own brand, Velvet Smoke, on this occasion as we have made the dreamiest margarita sets, we’ve created a beautiful set of four stunning, hand-blown glasses and a chic salt tray for that perfect, spicy, zesty, or salty rim of choice. Available in three gorgeous colourways – blue, orange, and blush – there’s a set to match every mood and occasion, no matter what your vibe is. They’ve just restocked so be quick!
Honestly, how amazing is this? Probably intended for wine but you know me, I’m not a wine drinker! But think this could be so cool for a party with your favourite cocktail in.
I’ve had my eye on these babies for a while. They’re so chic and giving 1960s NYC jazz bar! Might have slipped into my basket… oops!
Ok everyone needs a good ice bucket! I own about 6 and most of them are unfortunately vintage so can’t share exact copies but this one is pretty close! An investment but you will use it forever.
This jug is one of my prized possessions. I love putting frozen margaritas in here – or you know, every day for lemon water, etc!
Ok finally, how unique are these beautiful handmade class cocktail stirrers. They’re so chic and unique! I honestly don’t need more of these in my life as we have a whole draw through (for every themed party, of course!) but might have to break my own rules for these.
8 Must-Make BBQ Cocktails: (Batch by Jug!)
Just multiply the “per person” measures by the number of guests!
Espresso Martini
She’s an absolute classic for a reason and this equal parts recipe has never failed me.
Per person: 30ml vodka, 30ml Kahlúa, 30ml chilled espresso, optional vanilla syrup.
Shake with ice; garnish with three coffee beans.
Serve in: Pour into velvet smoke glasses (I’d say the Bubble-gum Pink would be an amazing contrast for these!) or coupe glasses.
Aperol Spritz
I don’t think a single one of my friends doesn’t like an Aperol. Probably wouldn’t be my friends if they didn’t – ha! The drink of the summer. EVERY SUMMER!
Per person:50ml Aperol, 75ml prosecco, 25ml soda water, orange slice.
Build in a pitcher over ice – just multiply for your crowd.
Spicy Margarita
If I was a cocktail, I’d be a spicy marg! I love whipping up a big jug for these – such a good kick and perfect with BBQ food.
Per person:50ml tequila, 25ml Cointreau, 25ml lime juice, 10ml agave, muddled jalapeño slice + extra garnish.
Shake & strain into salt-chili-rimmed glasses.
Paloma
Is it just me that feels like Palomas are underrated? Perfect for when you want a long chill drink.
Per person: 50ml tequila, 10ml lime juice, 75ml grapefruit soda, pinch of salt.
Stir in pitcher, serve over ice.
Negroni Sbagliato
With prosecco in it?! If you know, you know!
Per person: 25ml sweet vermouth, 25ml Campari, 50ml prosecco.
Stir in jug and pour immediately.
Frozen Berry Daiquiri
Chuck in a blender! So so easy but feels so expensive. These always disappear first at our BBQs on a hot day.
Per person: 50ml white rum, 25ml lime juice, handful frozen berries, 10ml sugar syrup.
Blend until slushy and serve in coupés.
Pineapple & Coconut Crush
Basically, a more chilled pina-colada! It gives holiday in your back garden!
Per person: 50ml coconut rum, 100ml pineapple juice, splash lime, crushed ice.
Shake or blend lightly.
Rosé & Raspberry Spritz
I’m usually quite picky when it comes to Rose but this is honestly so delicious. Also the frozen raspberries basically double up as ice cubes – which we’ve all been there at a BBQ when the ice runs out!
Per person: 75ml rosé, 25ml raspberry liqueur, soda top-up, handful frozen raspberries.
Stir in pitcher over ice.
Pre-Made Cocktails:
If you’re in a rush or have unexpected guests, these pre-made cocktails are brilliant. Literally pour over ice.
Lockdown Liquor use LPD25 for 25% off until end of Augusy 2025 (not an ad just a lovely thing)
These are my all-time fave cocktails in a bottle. They are such a crowd pleaser. They are also a great gift as you can personalise the bottles. Why send flowers when you can send a Pina Colada!
These are great for on the go. Always a winner on the train on the way to the dance floor.
These are some of the best canned cocktails out there. Another great gift for the friend that loves a tipple.
The best supermarket canned cocktails out there. The Mojito is my fave.
Finally, a few hosting tips…
• Prep cocktails ahead in the pitcher, cover, refrigerate.
• Garnishes ready in small bowls for self-service.
• Ice bucket on table, filled and scooped!
So, mix up your drinks, line up the garnishes, set out that ice bucket – and let the good times roll. With these batch able cocktails and styling pieces, you’ll be known as that hostess with the mostestttttt!
Love,
Lisa xx