As a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of concocting countless cocktails. While there’s no shortage of creative mixology out there, I’ve found that sometimes simplicity is key. That’s where Built Cocktails come in – a refreshing approach to cocktail-making that skips the fancy equipment and complicated techniques. Built Cocktails are exactly what they sound like: drinks built right in the glass. Simply combine your chosen ingredients over ice, add a garnish, and you’re good to go.
No shaking, no stirring required. This low-fuss approach makes them perfect for casual gatherings or everyday sipping. Plus, it’s easy to scale up production when entertaining friends. What I love most about Built Cocktails is the room they give for experimentation. With a few simple ingredients as your foundation, you can create countless signature cocktails by tweaking proportions and adding unique twists. The possibilities are endless!
So, let’s dive into some of the best Built Cocktail recipes out there. From classic whiskey sours to refreshing Palomas, these drinks showcase the versatility and ease of this approach. Grab your favorite glass and let’s get building!
Mary Pickford Cocktail
Inspired by the legendary silent movie actress Mary Pickford, this sweet and fruity cocktail is a delightful twist on traditional tropical drinks. The combination of pineapple juice, rum, grenadine, and maraschino liqueur creates a smooth and refreshing flavor profile that’s both unique and tantalizing. What sets the Mary Pickford apart from its counterparts is the absence of coconut, replaced instead by the subtle sweetness of cherry.
This results in a truly distinctive cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and fruity notes with a hint of sophistication. Whether you’re seeking a revitalizing drink to enjoy between dinner and a night out or simply looking for a new favorite cocktail, the Mary Pickford Cocktail is an absolute must-try.
Oaxaca Old Fashioned
For those who adore the classic Old Fashioned with a dash of innovation, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is an ideal choice. By marrying bourbon and smoky mezcal, garnished with a charred cinnamon stick that still wisps smoke into the air, this cocktail takes the traditional recipe to new heights. The earthy, ashy nuances from the mezcal are perfectly balanced by the bourbon’s warmth, yielding a potent, spirit-driven drink that’s tailor-made for autumnal sipping.
With its simplicity and boldness, this Oaxaca Old Fashioned is sure to delight fans of smoky flavors – it’s an absolute must-try.
Mojito
The iconic Mojito cocktail has been delighting palates for centuries with its harmonious blend of sugar syrup, lime juice, mint, and soda water. This beloved drink boasts two distinct origin stories, with the first dating back to the mid-1800s when Bacardi Company catapulted it to fame. Ernest Hemingway’s affinity for the Mojito is well-documented, having discovered its charms during a Cuban sojourn.
The beauty of this cocktail lies in its versatility, with numerous variations available to suit every taste preference. For those seeking a timeless and revitalizing drink experience, the classic Mojito is an excellent choice.
Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling, a sophisticated concoction of gin, benedictine, grand marnier, cherry liqueur, lime juice, pineapple juice, angostura bitters, and soda water, is a true masterclass in complexity. Its origins date back to the early 20th-century at Long Bar, Raffles Hotel in Singapore, where it evolved as a variation on the classic Gin Sling.
When crafted with precision and attention to detail, this potent yet fruity and herbaceous cocktail can be a truly revitalizing experience, striking the perfect balance between tartness, refreshment, and delight. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone who craves rich historical depth and a complex flavor profile in their cocktails.
Margarita
The timeless classic, the Margarita, has been delighting palates for generations. Its revitalizing blend of tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice is elevated by a touch of salt along the rim. In this unique spin, we turn the Margarita on its head by transforming it into a sorbet, crafting a frozen treat that’s perfect for scorching summer days. The recipe is remarkably straightforward, making it accessible to anyone looking to create this innovative dessert.
What’s more, this icy interpretation retains the essence of a traditional Margarita, offering an unparalleled drinking experience without the need for glasses or ice. While this treat may not be suitable for all ages, it’s an absolute must-try for adults seeking a novel and indulgent way to relish their favorite cocktail.
Skinny Bitch
The Skinny Bitch cocktail has become a go-to option for those seeking a refreshing and low-calorie beverage that aligns with their dietary goals. Its unique blend of vodka, freshly squeezed lime juice, and soda water creates a citrusy flavor profile that’s both invigorating and guilt-free. With its reputation as a favorite among body-conscious individuals worldwide, it’s no surprise that the Skinny Bitch has even been crowned the official drink of ‘The Real Housewives of Sydney.
‘ To craft the perfect Skinny Bitch, it’s essential to use high-quality fresh lime juice and an abundance of ice to ensure the drink reaches the ideal temperature. If you’re in the market for a delicious cocktail that won’t compromise your diet, the Skinny Bitch is definitely worth giving a try.
Espresso Martini
In the realm of craft cocktails, few drinks have garnered as much acclaim as the Espresso Martini. This potent elixir has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of aficionados worldwide since its inception in 1980 by British bartender Dick Bradsell. Its enduring popularity stems from the harmonious union of vodka, Kahlúa coffee liqueur, cold espresso, and sugar syrup, which yields a rich, complex flavor profile that’s as much about the coffee as it is about the vodka.
Whether you’re looking to extend your nights or jumpstart your days, this cocktail is sure to satisfy. For those who worship at the altar of coffee, the Espresso Martini is an absolute must-try.
Cable Car
In the heart of San Francisco lies a cocktail that’s as iconic as its namesake – the Cable Car. Tony Abou-Ganim, a renowned bartender, crafted this rum sour as a tribute to the city’s famous cable cars. This delightful drink is a masterful blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of spice that adds depth and complexity. The use of spiced rum instead of brandy or other spirits gives it a unique twist, setting it apart from classic sours like the Sidecar or Brandy Crusta.
A touch of cinnamon and sugar on the rim takes it to the next level, delivering a satisfying punch of sweetness and spice that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. If you’re looking for a cocktail that embodies the spirit of San Francisco – one that’s both nostalgic and adventurous – the Cable Car is an absolute must-try.
Sea Breeze Cocktail
The Sea Breeze Cocktail is a delightful blend of flavors and refreshment, ideal for those seeking a light and revitalizing drink experience. With just three simple ingredients – vodka, grapefruit juice, and cranberry juice – this cocktail is surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing for personal adjustments to suit individual tastes. While its potency may not be overwhelming, its sheer drinkability makes it essential to pace yourself.
As such, the Sea Breeze Cocktail is an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in a flavorful beverage without losing their sense of judgment. If you’re hankering for a cocktail that captures the essence of sun-kissed days by the ocean, then the Sea Breeze Cocktail is well worth exploring.
Last Word
Since its inception in 1915, The Last Word cocktail has undergone a remarkable resurgence in popularity after being rediscovered in the early 2000s. This timeless classic combines gin, green chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice to create a complex medley of sweet, sour, and herbal notes that tantalize the palate. The versatility of this cocktail is truly remarkable, as bartenders have developed innovative variations that cater to diverse tastes.
For instance, substituting Mezcal for gin adds an earthy depth that complements the original flavors. If you’re seeking a drink that will leave you utterly speechless, The Last Word is an absolute must-try.
Whiskey Smash
For over a century, the Whiskey Smash has been a timeless favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. This revitalizing drink strikes the perfect chord between whiskey lovers seeking a lighter taste experience and those craving a sweet and sour flavor profile. The harmonious blend of lemon juice, bourbon whiskey, fresh mint leaves, and sugar syrup yields a tantalizing balance that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re hosting an impromptu gathering or simply unwinding at home, the Whiskey Smash is an effortless yet impressive choice. With its ease of preparation and versatility, this classic cocktail is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cunningham Cocktail
The Cunningham Cocktail is a masterclass in balance and complexity, blending scotch whiskey, Benedictine, cherry liqueur, blood orange juice, and lemon juice. This innovative creation by San Francisco bartender Marco Dionysos cleverly pays tribute to two classic cocktails – the Blood & Sand and Bobby Burns – while introducing its own unique signature with the use of bold blood orange and lemon flavors.
The result is a harmonious blend that effortlessly combines sweet and tart notes, rich herbal undertones, and cherry nuances. When presented with brandied cherries and a flamed blood orange twist, this cocktail becomes an absolute must-try for anyone seeking to elevate their scotch-drinking experience.
Bobby Burns
The Bobby Burns cocktail is a timeless concoction that harmoniously blends scotch whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Benedictine. The smoky, peaty undertones of the scotch are beautifully tempered by the sweetness of the vermouth and the herbal nuances of the Benedictine. A delicate touch of lemon zest serves as the perfect finishing note, injecting a revitalizing citrus essence into the drink.
If you’re seeking to venture beyond familiar flavors, the Bobby Burns cocktail is an excellent choice, offering a unique and captivating taste experience.
Blood & Sand
The Blood & Sand cocktail is a timeless scotch-based drink that has been delighting bar-goers since the 1930s. Its name pays homage to Rudolph Valentino’s iconic film, ‘Blood and Sand,’ a 1922 bullfighter drama that cemented his status as ‘The Latin Lover.’ This classic cocktail strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour notes, with cherry liqueur and sweet vermouth providing the sweetness and freshly squeezed orange juice injecting a tangy zest.
The smooth scotch whiskey adds a unique flavor dimension, tempering the drink’s natural sweetness. If you’re seeking a straightforward yet sophisticated cocktail that’s sure to please, the Blood & Sand is an excellent choice, perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Surfer on Acid
The Surfer on Acid cocktail is an intriguing concoction that seamlessly blends the rich, herbal essence of Jägermeister with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple juice and coconut rum. This tall, frosty drink is perfect for beating the heat on a sweltering day, whether enjoyed straight up or over ice cubes. What’s more, its adaptability allows it to be served as either a shot or a cocktail, making it an excellent choice for any social gathering.
Assembled by a Los Angeles bartender in the 1990s, this refreshing elixir has become a Built Cocktail staple that should not be missed.
Ultimate Caesar Cocktail
Experience the ultimate Canadian classic with the Ultimate Caesar Cocktail. This refreshing concoction combines vodka and a rich Caesar mix infused with bold flavors from horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. But what really sets it apart is its built-in snacking potential – simply garnish with your favorite treats like celery, bacon-wrapped delights, succulent shrimp, or even sliders and wings.
Whether you’re looking to spice up brunch, happy hour, or a lazy afternoon on the deck, this versatile cocktail has got you covered. With its adjustable level of heat and endless snacking options, it’s no wonder the Ultimate Caesar Cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail aficionado.
Corpse Reviver No.1
The Corpse Reviver No.1 has remained a timeless classic in the world of cocktails, with its rich and vibrant flavor profile drawing inspiration from the Manhattan family. This iconic blend of calvados, sweet vermouth, and cognac was originally crafted as a hangover remedy, but its versatility makes it an excellent choice for both morning and evening sipping sessions.
The sweetness of the vermouth beautifully balances the richness of the brandies, making it a standout option for those who prefer darker spirits. If you’re seeking a unique and complex cocktail experience, the Corpse Reviver No.1 is definitely a must-try.
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai has been a beloved classic in the world of cocktails for generations, its enduring popularity attributed to its complex flavor profile and refreshing balance. At its core, the drink combines white or dark rum with orange curacao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup, offering a harmonious blend that showcases the best qualities of good-quality rum. Bartenders continue to refine their recipes by experimenting with different rums, seeking to perfect the drink’s depth and complexity.
Despite its origins in mystery, the name ‘Mai Tai’ is said to translate to ‘the best out of this world’ in Tahitian, a fitting moniker for a cocktail that defies expectation. With its rum-forward flavor profile, the Mai Tai is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you’re a Tiki aficionado or simply seeking a delicious drink to savor.
Rob Roy
The Rob Roy cocktail is a timeless classic that offers a unique spin on the traditional Manhattan. By substituting scotch whiskey for bourbon, this drink develops a distinct character that showcases the chosen whiskey. The harmonious pairing of scotch and sweet vermouth creates a well-rounded taste experience.
With its rich history rooted in the iconic Waldorf Astoria in New York City, the Rob Roy is an excellent choice for those who appreciate bold, spirit-forward cocktails and enjoy experimenting with various scotches and vermouths to create their perfect recipe. For anyone seeking a classic cocktail with a twist, the Rob Roy is certainly worth exploring.
Mezcal Negroni
Innovate on the timeless Negroni with the Mezcal Negroni, an intriguing reinterpretation that replaces gin with Mezcal. This smoky and earthy agave spirit injects a captivating twist into the classic formula. As you sip this modern marvel, notice how the Mezcal’s bold character harmonizes with Campari’s bitter notes and vermouth’s herbal undertones, yielding a masterfully balanced cocktail.
With its unique profile and rapid ascent to modern classic status, the Mezcal Negroni is an absolute must-try for Negroni enthusiasts and adventurous mixologists alike.
Moscow Mule Punch
A Moscow Mule Punch that will quench your thirst on a scorching summer day! This revitalizing cocktail is crafted by combining the tartness of limeade, the spiciness of ginger beer, and the boldness of vodka. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings, parties, or even backyard barbecues. The punch boasts a tangy, spicy flavor profile with a hint of lime zest, accompanied by a subtle yet satisfying kick.
To elevate its charm, consider garnishing with a sprig of fresh mint and a squeeze of lime juice – the perfect finishing touches to this delightful concoction.
Blackberry Vodka Lemonade Fizz
Sipping on a Blackberry Vodka Lemonade Fizz on a warm summer day is a refreshing experience like no other. The harmonious blend of muddled blackberries, lemonade, and club soda creates a sweet and tangy taste that’s expertly balanced by the smoothness of vodka. This delightful cocktail is sure to be a showstopper at any outdoor gathering, from family barbecues to red-white-and-blue celebrations on the Fourth of July.
And don’t worry if you’re not feeling like a drink – simply swap out the vodka for some sparkling water and enjoy the equally tasty mocktail version. The Blackberry Vodka Lemonade Fizz is a summer staple that’s sure to become a go-to favorite.
Pineapple Upside Down Cocktail
Indulge in a tropical treat with the Pineapple Upside Down Cocktail, a scrumptious blend of pineapple juice, cake-flavored vodka, amaretto, lime juice, and grenadine. This delightful concoction is designed to showcase two distinct layers, with the grenadine flowing to the bottom like a sweet surprise. While the layers may blur together upon mixing, the drink remains visually stunning and indulgently delicious.
Perfect for sipping al fresco with your closest gal pals by the pool or on the back porch, this sweet cocktail is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Tokyo Mule
The Tokyo Mule offers a thrilling departure from traditional cocktails, blending sake, cucumber, ginger syrup, lime juice, and vodka in perfect harmony. This innovative drink is ideal for those who crave Japanese flavors and are eager to venture beyond the norm. The synergy of sake and ginger syrup yields an unmistakable and delectable taste profile, while the cucumber and lime juice add a revitalizing essence.
Whether you’re seeking a cooling escape on a sweltering summer day or a sophisticated offering to impress your guests at a gathering, the Tokyo Mule is sure to hit the spot, providing a truly enjoyable experience for those willing to take a chance on this unique concoction.
