These birthday cocktails use simple mixers, everyday spirits and festive garnishes to create vibrant, fun drinks, perfect for celebrating.
1/33
Double Chocolate Martini
From the Recipe Creator:
Is it a beverage or a dessert? Don't let its looks fool you: This chocolate martini recipe is potent but good! —Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 569 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 45mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
2/33
Margarita Floats
From the Recipe Creator:
On a hot afternoon, what could be better than a cold margarita float? The addition of creamy ice cream really takes this treat to the next level. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 margarita: 372 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 83mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
3/33
Passion Fruit Hurricanes
From the Recipe Creator:
This is our Test Kitchen’s version of the famous Hurricane beverage that’s so popular in New Orleans. Whip up a batch for your next party! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 340 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (50g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
4/33
Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktails
From the Recipe Creator:
You’ll love celebrating with these whimsical champagne cocktails. The cotton candy melts away, leaving behind its pretty pink color. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cocktail: 125 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
5/33
Basil Citrus Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
Fruity, fantastic and lighter in calories! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 136 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 14g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
6/33
Ginger Mint Julep Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
Mint juleps aren’t just for Kentucky Derby day! Enjoy one while gathering with friends for a birthday party or luncheon. —Ellen Riley, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 238 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
7/33
Salty Dog Sangria
From the Recipe Creator:
Mix up grapefruit vodka, ginger ale, grapefruit juice, a little wine and simple syrup and what do you get? A perfectly refreshing and beautiful sipper fit for a birthday party or special gathering. —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 186 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
8/33
Blueberry Mojito
From the Recipe Creator:
Blueberry and lime are two of my favorite flavors, so I added blueberries to my favorite mixed drink! This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. To make simple syrup, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water and cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Simple syrup will keep in the fridge for a week.—Michele Tungett, Rochester, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 drink: 202 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 29mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
9/33
Orange Razzletini
From the Recipe Creator:
We combined orange juice and raspberry rum to create this fruity martini. The sunny, bright color is appealing. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 118 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
10/33
Rosemary Strawberry Daiquiri
From the Recipe Creator:
This strawberry daiquiri recipe is a standout with its herbal twist! I used to teach herb classes at our local technical college and everyone enjoyed my segment on herbal cocktails like this one. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 251 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 3g fiber), 0 protein.
11/33
Rubies on Ice
From the Recipe Creator:
Ginger and pomegranate are made for each other, and the color of this beverage is tantalizing. If you're looking for a nonalcoholic option, you can easily leave out the vodka for a delicious and festive drink! —Tara Deshpande, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 148 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
12/33
Sparkling Peach Bellinis
From the Recipe Creator:
Folks will savor the subtle peach flavor in this elegant beverage. — Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 74 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
13/33
Classic Margarita
From the Recipe Creator:
A classic margarita recipe doesn’t need anything other than tequila, Triple Sec and fresh lime juice. When you’re making the cocktail, make sure you squeeze the limes correctly for the ultimate freshness. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 206 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
14/33
Blackberry Beer Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
This refreshing hard lemonade has a mild alcohol flavor; the beer adds just enough fizz to dance on your tongue as you sip. Sorry, adults only! —Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 151 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
15/33
Apple Amaretto Sours
From the Recipe Creator:
An amaretto sour had always been one of my favorite cocktails. This version has a special touch that makes it perfect for enjoying throughout the fall. —Amber Forbes, Roper, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 191 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 20mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
16/33
Paloma
From the Recipe Creator:
Soon after I learned about this cocktail, I brought the ingredients to a family birthday party at my parents’. The next time we got together, my dad had the fixings set out and ready to go. —Ian Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 148 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
17/33
Chocolate Martini
From the Recipe Creator:
The variations on martinis seem endless. But this sweet chocolate martini recipe is both creative and sophisticated in taste and presentation. It’s a great way to end a birthday party. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 378 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
18/33
Pina Colada
From the Recipe Creator:
Velvety-smooth texture and a taste of the tropics are what this tropical drink delivers. The easy-to-make pina colada recipe can be mixed and chilled ahead of time. When ready to serve, just blend for a creamy and delicious beverage. —Linda Schend, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 457 calories, 13g fat (10g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 42mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (52g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
19/33
Mojito
From the Recipe Creator:
Traditional mojitos are made with rum, which is both pleasant and mildly sweet. If you want a new spin on the classic mojito recipe, try using tequila for tart yet refreshing flavor. —Christine Rukavena, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 149 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
20/33
Pomegranate Cosmo
From the Recipe Creator:
Every party needs a signature drink. Sugar dresses up this simple cosmo that lets you enjoy an evening with friends and still shake things up. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 209 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
21/33
Swedish Rose Spritz
From the Recipe Creator:
A spritz is a still or sparkling wine-based cocktail served with a small amount of liqueur and a splash of seltzer or soda. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 189 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
22/33
Brandy Slush
From the Recipe Creator:
This citrusy slush is a Midwestern party go-to. Instead of regular brandy, swap in other spirits, like blackberry brandy or berry vodka. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 129 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 8mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
23/33
Cranberry Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
I adore the combination of flavors in this recipe. The secret is to thaw the lemonade so it’s still slightly icy—this way the cocktail will be cool and refreshing. For a nonalcoholic option, use peach juice and lemon-lime soda instead of schnapps and vodka. —Julie Danler, Bel Aire, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 226 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (31g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
24/33
Orange-Apricot Mimosa Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
We make this punch for our annual Christmas brunch, and everyone loves it! I usually triple this recipe for a bigger crowd and garnish the punch with an orange-tangerine ice ring made several days ahead of time. —Kathy McKay, Acworth, Georgia
25/33
Apple Martini
From the Recipe Creator:
Sour appletini ingredients steal the show in this icy-cold green apple martini recipe. It’s very refreshing with a nice hint of sour. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 285 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
26/33
Cranberry Sparkler Cocktails
From the Recipe Creator:
The flavors of this refreshing cran-raspberry cocktail are great any time of year. In winter, the cranberry makes it a good fit for holiday parties; on a warm summer’s night, the raspberry comes to the fore. It’s a favorite for a birthday party! —Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 174 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
27/33
Orange Dream Mimosas
From the Recipe Creator:
Your inner child will love this fun riff on the classic mimosa. Use sparkling cider, ginger ale or sparkling grape juice for a nonalcoholic version. —Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 138 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 8mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
28/33
Guava Coconut Rum Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
My beverage is so sensational it's like a taste of the tropics in a glass. The guava adds a touch of sweetness to this coconut drink. —Melanie Milhorat, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 197 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 77mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
29/33
Spiked Lemonade
From the Recipe Creator:
Rum gives a tropical addition to this fabulous homemade lemonade. If you have vodka on hand, try that instead of the rum. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 296 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (56g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
30/33
Cranberry-Orange Sangria
From the Recipe Creator:
Letting this sangria sit in the fridge overnight improves the fruitiness, making it the perfect make-ahead drink for a holiday party. It's also nice with a splash of brandy. —Maria Regakis, Somerville, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 263 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
31/33
Cranberry Mimosa
From the Recipe Creator:
Mimosas are just so elegant for a birthday celebration. My recipe uses tart cranberries to balance the sweetness of champagne and orange juice. —Shannon Stephens, Lake in the Hills, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 163 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
32/33
Brandy Old-Fashioned Slush
From the Recipe Creator:
Both sides of my family are midwestern, so our strong brandy tradition is evident in the slush we make and in the Wisconsin old-fashioned cocktails we enjoy year-round. I decided to combine those recipes into something completely new. This goes very quickly at gatherings! —Stephanie Vaughan, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 246 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 9mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
33/33
Luscious Lime Slush
From the Recipe Creator:
Adults love this sweet-tart refresher anytime of year. For a kids’ version, simply leave out the alcohol. —Bonnie Jost, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 177 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (35g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Birthday Cocktails FAQ
What are some colorful drink ideas for birthday celebrations?
Frozen slushies, tropical coolers and bubbly spritzes with bright fruit bases, like pomegranate, cranberry and orange, are fun and easy, colorful drink ideas. You can also add fresh herbs, citrus wheels, edible flowers or candied cherries to traditional cocktails for a pop of color. To perk up a drink without changing the recipe, try rolling the rim of a glass in citrus juice and colored crushed candy or sparkling sugar, for a decorative touch.
Can I turn traditional cocktails into mocktails?
Most cocktail recipes can be made alcohol-free with a few creative swaps. You can buy non-alcoholic beer and alternatives for spirits like vodka, tequila and gin instead of their alcoholic counterparts, or replace them with soda water, tonic, ginger beer or fruit juice blends. These options add fizz, bitterness or sweetness so the drink is still full-flavored, like these virgin mojitos. Making a few mocktail recipes is a great addition to any party for those who don’t drink or are just not drinking that day.
What ingredients should I stock for a cocktail party?
A well-stocked cocktail party starts with a variety of base spirits, like vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and something sparkling like champagne or prosecco. Add mixers like citrus juices, tonic, club soda, ginger beer and coconut water. For extra festive flair, set out bowls of garnishes, paper umbrellas and cute napkins to catch any spills. If you’re hosting a crowd, choose a cocktail that can be made in advance and mix a few large batches, so people can pour a ready-to-go drink when they arrive.
