When it comes to being a spectacular host, having the right mixers on hand can make or break the party. While you’re enjoying the company of your guests, you want to whip up cocktails that are delicious and refreshing, but also easy to create in large quantities. This isn’t as difficult as it seems!
Here, you’ll find the best mixers for pleasing large crowds, plus some tips on how to get the most out of them.
1. Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a key ingredient in many of the most popular cocktails because it is so versatile. Mash together equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool outside the fridge before you use it. Simple syrup has considerable sweetness while also balancing out the acidity in citrus fruits. A simple syrup is a great mixer for crowd-pleasing cocktails that are easy to scale.
Some popular cocktails you can make using simple syrup include the Tom Collins, which involves gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and the classic daiquiri- an all-time favorite among cocktail lovers around the globe.
2. Ginger Beer
Ginger beer is a must-have mixer for achieving flavorful cocktails. Ginger Beer is carbonated and has a pungent, spicy ginger flavor that heightens any mixed drink’s aroma and flavor. As a result, it makes a great cranberry vodka mixer or a gin fizz that is lively with invigorating flavors. If this sounds like something you’d like, I highly recommend trying out the popular Moscow Mule, which involves vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
3. Tonic Water
Despite its name, tonic water is a great mixer to use for creating refreshing cocktails. Tonic water is simple and has a watery texture, making it a good mixer to use in a crowd-pleasing cocktail. The distinctive taste comes from quinine, an ingredient that’s used to treat malaria that gives off a slightly bitter taste. This unique flavor profiles well with gin and lemon juice, making it a popular addition to the iconic Tom Collins and Gin and Tonic cocktails.
4. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is a great mixer for creating delicious drinks! The tart flavor of cranberries adds a unique twist to any cocktail, and cranberry juice is readily available and easy to find. Cranberry vodka cocktails are also very popular. Some favorites include the Cosmo (vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec) and the Sea Breeze (vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice).
5. Orange Juice
Orange juice is another great and easily accessible mixer for cocktails. You can make a delicious screwdriver by combining vodka and orange juice, or mix up a mimosa by pouring equal parts orange juice and champagne or prosecco. When making a crowd-pleasing cocktail, the key is to use fresh-squeezed juice, which will add more flavor and taste to your drinks.
6. Bloody Mary Mix
Bloody Marys are a popular option for brunch gatherings and are sure to impress your guests. Whip up a batch of Bloody Mary mix by mixing tomato juice with Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce, and celery salt. Store this traditional mixer in a large bottle and have some vodka on hand for creating a delicious cocktail that’s sure to please.
7. Lemonade
You can’t go wrong with lemonade as it’s a refreshingly simple mixer perfect for outdoor events and quick and easy to make. Mix lemon juice, sugar, and water until the sugar dissolves, then add ice and any alcohol of your choice for a flavorful and refreshing cocktail. Add some club soda or ginger ale to the mix to add a little sparkle to your drink.
8. Pineapple Juice
Pineapple juice adds a sweet and tangy dimension to cocktails, making it a popular option for tropical and summer-inspired drinks. Mix it with rum and coconut cream or lime juice to create memorable island cocktails like the Pina colada and the Painkiller. A perfect match for any summer parties, poolside lounging, or beach parties.
9. Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is an excellent mixer that is simple and adds some sparkle to every cocktail, making it perfect for any occasion. The effervescence and bubbles of the sparkling water add a texture to any boldly flavored cocktail. Mix it with flavors like lime, lemon, or ginger for a refreshing summer drink or add it to a spritzer for a light and exhilarating cocktail.
Conclusion
There are plenty of mixers out there that can delight a crowd and make them want to come back for more! The key is finding the right mix of flavors that complements the base spirits, and scales easily, make your cocktails ahead of time wherever possible and have them ready for guests so you can spend more time enjoying the event. With this choice of mixers, you can be assured that you will have plenty of options for creating crowd-pleasing cocktails and keeping your guests entertained. Remember, keep it simple, and you’ll build your self a batch of drinks that are both easy and impressive. Cheers to mixing some delicious cocktails!
Image Credit: Pexels