14 Must-try Citrus Cocktails

The perfect citrus cocktail hits like a breeze on a hot day—crisp, vibrant, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re team lime, lemon, or blood orange, this list has something to wake up your taste buds. These 14 recipes are sunshine in liquid form.

Paloma

The Paloma is a refreshing citrus cocktail that’s popular for its bright and tangy flavors. You’ll enjoy the blend of tequila, grapefruit, and lime juices. This drink is an ideal choice for warm weather or any casual gathering.

Key Ingredients:

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce grapefruit juice
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• Pinch of salt

To make a Paloma, follow these simple steps:

1. Rim a glass with salt: Use a lime wedge, then dip into salt.
2. Mix ingredients: Pour tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice into the glass.
3. Add ice: Fill the glass three-quarters with ice.
4. Top with soda: Use grapefruit soda for the right effervescence.
5. Garnish: Add a slice of grapefruit and lime. Enjoy!

For those adventurous with flavor, try variations. Add bitters or substitute grapefruit soda with club soda and simple syrup. You might also add orange juice for an extra citrus twist.

Don’t forget to adjust the sweetness to your taste with more or less simple syrup. Using fresh juices enhances the overall experience. This cocktail is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different citrus combinations.

Caipirinha

The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail. It features the distilled spirit cachaça, derived from sugarcane juice. This drink is refreshing and perfect for citrus cocktail enthusiasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces of cachaça
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 teaspoons of superfine sugar
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lime:
   Slice the lime into wedges.
   Place them in a rock or old-fashioned glass.
2. Add Sugar:
   Sprinkle sugar over the lime wedges.
3. Muddle the Ingredients:
   Use a muddler to press the lime and sugar together. This releases the lime’s juices.
4. Add Cachaça and Ice:
   Pour in the cachaça and fill the glass with ice cubes.
5. Stir Well:
   Mix the drink thoroughly to combine the flavors.

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is an iconic cocktail. It perfectly combines sweet and tart flavors. Its popularity remains high with its chic appearance.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce triple sec (Cointreau)
• 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Sidecar

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail renowned for its citrusy flavor. It combines cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. This delightful mix creates a refreshing yet sophisticated drink.

To make a Sidecar, you need the following ingredients:

• 2 ounces cognac
• 1 ounce Cointreau or another premium triple sec
• 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Superfine sugar for the rim
• Lemon or orange twist for garnish

To prepare the Sidecar, follow these steps:

1. Moisten the rim of a cocktail glass with a lemon wedge. Dip the rim into superfine sugar.
2. Add cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice to a shaker filled with ice.
3. Shake until the outside is frosty.
4. Strain the drink into the sugar-rimmed glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or orange twist.

This cocktail follows a simple 2:1:1 ratio—two parts base spirit, one part sour, and one part sweet. Each component must be of high quality to achieve the best flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial. Cointreau is a popular choice for the orange liqueur.

Greyhound

The Greyhound is a classic citrus cocktail that is both simple and refreshing.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin or vodka
• 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
• In a shaker, combine gin or vodka with fresh grapefruit juice.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into the ice-filled glass.
• Garnish with lime or a grapefruit wedge.

The Greyhound dates back to the 1930s, with its origins documented in “The Savoy Cocktail Book.” Initially, gin was the spirit of choice.

For a twist, try adding a salted rim for a Salty Dog variation. Simply rub the rim with grapefruit, and dip it in salt.

The Greyhound is versatile. You can infuse it with flavored vodkas or add other fruit juices like pomegranate or strawberry for unique tastes. Adjust the flavor with sodas. Club soda for sparkle or sweeter options like ginger ale. Each variation retains the refreshing citrus hit, while adding new dimensions.

Pisco Sour

The Pisco Sour is a classic citrus cocktail known for its frothy texture and tangy flavor. Making a perfect Pisco Sour involves careful balance and technique.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Pisco
• 1 oz Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 3/4 oz Simple syrup
• 1 Egg white
• Ice (as needed)
• Angostura bitters (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a cocktail shaker.
2. Dry Shake: Shake the mixture without ice to create froth. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice. Shake again for another 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain: Pour the mixture into a chilled glass. Strain carefully to maintain the frothy top.
5. Garnish: Add 3-5 drops of Angostura bitters on the foam.

Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees is a classic cocktail with a bright and refreshing taste. This drink dates back to the Prohibition era. It combines gin with citrus and honey, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Key Ingredients

• Gin: Choose 2 oz. of your preferred gin. London Dry gin enhances the juniper notes, while a modern, floral gin brings out citrus.
• Lemon Juice: Use ¾ oz. of fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed is best for optimal flavor.
• Honey Syrup: Prepare with ¾ oz. of rich honey syrup. Combine honey with hot water in a 2:1 ratio. Stir until dissolved and cool before use.

Instructions

• Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.
• Shake: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds. Ensure the mixture is well chilled.
• Strain: Use a strainer to pour the cocktail into a coupe or martini glass.
• Garnish: Twist a lemon peel over the glass to release oils. Drop it into the drink for aroma.

Orange Creamsicle

 

Experience the delightful blend of citrus and cream with an Orange Creamsicle cocktail. This drink transports you to summer with just a sip. It’s a homage to the favorite ice cream treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces vanilla vodka
• 1/2 ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce half-and-half
• 1 ounce orange juice
• Ice

Instructions:

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add vanilla vodka, triple sec, half-and-half, and orange juice.
• Shake well until mixed.
• Strain into a glass.
• Garnish: Add an orange twist if desired.

For a simpler version, you can also try this recipe using orange soda.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces vanilla vodka
• Orange soda
• Whipped cream
• Orange zest

Instructions:

• Fill a glass with ice.
• Add the vanilla vodka.
• Fill with orange soda and stir gently.
• Top with whipped cream.
• Garnish: Sprinkle orange zest on top.

Blood Orange Margarita

Introduce your palate to the vibrant flavors of a Blood Orange Margarita. The bold color and sweet-tart taste make this cocktail a standout.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz orange liqueur
• 1 oz blood orange juice
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Kosher salt for rimming
• Blood orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Moisten the rim of a rocks glass with lime juice.
2. Roll the rim in kosher salt and fill the glass with ice.
3. Combine tequila, orange liqueur, blood orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
4. Shake until well-chilled.
5. Strain into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.

Enjoy this refreshing drink with its balance of citrus brightness and a hint of sweetness.

Lemon Drop Martini

The Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshing citrus cocktail. Its balance of sweet and sour flavors makes it a favorite for cocktail enthusiasts.

To make a Lemon Drop Martini, you’ll need:

• 2 oz vodka
• ¾ oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• Lemon for glass rim
• Sugar for glass rim

Follow these simple steps to prepare:

Rim the Glass:

• Moisten the rim of a martini glass with a lemon slice.
• Dip the rim into a plate of sugar to coat it.

Mix Ingredients:

• Combine vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
• Fill with ice, cover, and shake for at least 30 seconds until cold.

Serve:

• Strain the mix into your prepared glass.
• Garnish with a lemon twist for an added touch.

This cocktail brings a tart, lemony burst with a smooth finish. The sugary rim adds a delightful sweetness to every sip. It’s perfect for those who love a mix of sweet and sour. Enjoy creating this classic treat for your next gathering.

Citrus Basil Smash

A refreshing Citrus Basil Smash is perfect for any time of year. It combines the zing of citrus with the aromatic flavor of fresh basil. You can enjoy this vibrant cocktail with friends or as a treat at home.

Create the drink easily with these ingredients:

• 60 ml gin
• 25 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 10 ml sugar syrup (2:1 ratio)
• 12 fresh basil leaves
• Soda water

Follow these steps to make your Citrus Basil Smash:

1. Muddle basil leaves in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup.
3. Shake the mixture with ice for 10-15 seconds.
4. Double strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and stir gently.

Feel the burst of citrus paired with fragrant basil. This drink is all about simplicity and freshness. Prepare it easily with ingredients often available at home.

Be sure to keep the basil fresh for the fullest flavor. Adjust sugar syrup for desired sweetness. Enjoy responsibly.

Orange Blossom

The Orange Blossom cocktail offers a refreshing blend perfect for citrus lovers. Known for its vibrant flavor, this drink has been a favorite since Prohibition times.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz fresh orange juice
• Orange wedge for garnish

Instructions

• Combine gin, sweet vermouth, and orange juice in a shaker filled with ice.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
• Garnish with an orange wedge.

For a twist, you can leave out the sweet vermouth. This creates a simpler version, known as Orange Blossom No. 2. Both versions provide a delightful citrus refreshment.

Key Lime Pie Martini

The Key Lime Pie Martini brings dessert flavor to a cocktail glass. This cocktail combines the tartness of key lime with the creamy texture of a classic pie.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz key lime juice
• 1 oz cream of coconut
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• Ice

Instructions:

• Rub the rim of a martini glass with cream of coconut.
• Dip the rim in graham cracker crumbs.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add vanilla vodka, key lime juice, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice.
• Shake vigorously until chilled.
• Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or slice if desired.

Enjoy the refreshing balance of flavors in the Key Lime Pie Martini. The combination of ingredients mimics the taste of its namesake dessert. This cocktail delivers a delightful experience with every sip.

Tangerine Mojito

Imagine a refreshing tangerine mojito on a warm day. The citrus notes make this cocktail both tangy and sweet. You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups tangerine juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 1 cup sugar cane juice or ½ cup simple syrup
• 8 oz fresh mint leaves
• 1-1½ cups rum
• 1-1½ cups chilled sparkling water
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

Prepare the Mint:

• Use a muddler to crush mint leaves.
• This releases their essential oils.

Mix the Juices:

• Combine tangerine juice and lime juice in a pitcher.
• Add sugar cane juice or simple syrup.

Add the Rum:

• Pour rum into the mixture.
• Mix well using a bar spoon.

Chill the Mixture:

• Add ice cubes to your glass.
• Fill almost to the top.

Finish with Sparkling Water:

• Add sparkling water to taste.
• Stir gently to combine.

Feel free to garnish your tangerine mojito with mint leaves or tangerine wedges. This adds flair and flavor. Enjoy your refreshing, tangy drink!

Limoncello Spritz

A Limoncello Spritz offers a refreshing escape. This Italian cocktail blends bright lemon flavors with sparkling bubbles, making it ideal for a summer day. You only need a few ingredients to create this vibrant drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Limoncello
• 3 ounces Prosecco
• 1 ounce club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass halfway with ice.
2. Pour 2 ounces of Limoncello over the ice.
3. Add 3 ounces of Prosecco.
4. Top with 1 ounce of club soda.

Swirl gently to mix. Add a lemon slice for garnish. Enjoy your Limoncello Spritz!

This cocktail balances the sweetness of Limoncello with the fruity bouquet of Prosecco. It’s easy to scale up for parties. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a go-to for entertaining. The citrusy fizz delights and refreshes with every sip.

Feel free to tweak the ratios based on preference. Add more Prosecco for a drier taste or more Limoncello for sweetness. Experiment with different garnishes like mint leaves.