Homemade Cocktail Mixers: Easy Recipes for Multiple Cocktails

Apr 17, 2025by RJ Peristere

Storebought cocktail mixers often taste processed or leave a terrible aftertaste. I'm going to tell you how to make some of the most essential cocktail mixers at home while also recommended a few options that I think live up to the test and flavor profile that you would expect from a homemade mix.

Homemade Cocktail Mixers: Simple Syrup Recipe

Perhaps the most essential of all homemade cocktail mixers. I personally like to keep it simple. I recommend using a brown sugar in a little saucepan and heating it up. I use it for espresso martini’s and any other cocktails that requite a bit of sweetening.

Ingredients: Equal parts sugar and water.
Method: Heat water, stirring gently to ensure the sugar dissolves evenly. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove any undissolved particles. Optional: Infuse with herbs (mint, basil), spices (cinnamon), or citrus zest.
Use: Sweetens cocktails like mojitos, margaritas, or old fashioneds.

Recommended Cocktails with Simple Syrup

Mojito: Muddles mint, lime, and simple syrup with rum, topped with soda water for sweetness and balance. Garnish with fresh mint leaves to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Margarita: Combines simple syrup with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec for a sweet-tart profile.
Old Fashioned: A dash of simple syrup softens the whiskey and bitters. Garnish with a cherry to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Recommended Purchase Option :

Shelf Life and Storage

When it comes to storing your homemade mixers, it’s essential to follow proper storage and handling procedures to ensure that they remain fresh and safe to consume. Simple syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to six months, while other mixers like fruit purees and syrups may have a shorter shelf life. Be sure to store your mixers in airtight containers, such as glass jars or mason jars, and keep them in the fridge or freezer to prevent spoilage. By following proper storage and handling procedures, you can enjoy your homemade mixers for months to come.

Experimenting with New Flavors

One of the best things about making your own homemade mixers is the ability to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. With a simple syrup as a base, you can add a range of ingredients like citrus zest, herbs, or spices to create unique and delicious flavor combinations. You can also try using different types of sugar, like honey or agave, to create a distinct flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things – experimenting with new flavors is a great way to discover new favorite cocktails and mixers. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, homemade mixers offer a world of possibilities for creative and delicious cocktails.

Sour Mix

Sour mix is another classic that can either be made home or purchased at your local liquor store

Ingredients: Fresh lemon and lime juice, simple syrup. For the best flavor, use fresh fruit juices.
Method: Mix 1 part lemon juice, 1 part lime juice, and 1-2 parts simple syrup. Ensure the lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup are thoroughly combined. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Use: Perfect for margaritas, whiskey sours, or daiquiris.

Recommended Cocktails with Sour Mix

Sour Mix

Whiskey Sour: Sour mix with whiskey and a splash of egg white for a frothy, tangy drink that creates delicious drinks.
Margarita: Sour mix replaces separate lime juice and sweetener with tequila and orange liqueur.
Daiquiri: Sour mix with rum and a touch of ice for a refreshing, zesty classic. This tasty drink is perfect for any occasion.

Ginger Syrup

Ingredients: Fresh ginger, sugar, water.
Method: Simmer sliced ginger in water, stirring occasionally to ensure even consistency, add sugar to dissolve, then bring the mixture to a boil to extract the ginger flavor, strain, and cool.
Use: Adds spice to Moscow mules, dark ‘n’ stormies, or penicillin cocktails.

Recommended Cocktails with Ginger Syrup

Moscow Mule: Ginger syrup with vodka and lime juice, topped with soda water (instead of ginger beer). The ginger syrup can also be used to create refreshing sodas by combining it with sparkling water.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy: Ginger syrup adds a spicy kick to rum and lime, topped with soda for a spiced kick.
Penicillin: Ginger syrup with scotch, lemon juice, and a touch of honey for a smoky, spicy sipper.

Honey Syrup

Ingredients: Honey, water.
Method: Mix 1 part honey with 1 part warm water until dissolved. For a richer flavor, consider adding a vanilla bean to the mixture. To add a citrusy note, incorporate some orange zest into the syrup.
Use: Sweetens and adds depth to bee’s knees or gold rush cocktails.

Recommended Cocktails with Honey Syrup

Bee’s Knees: Making this drink can be a fun activity, combining honey syrup with gin and lemon juice for a sweet, floral classic.
Gold Rush: Honey syrup with bourbon and lemon juice for a warm, smooth sip. This cocktail can also be a great gift for special occasions.
Brown Derby: Honey syrup (in place of simple) with grapefruit juice and bourbon for a tangy twist.

Benefits of Homemade Mixers

Homemade mixers offer a range of benefits, from cost-effectiveness to customization. I tend to lean more towards it just tastes better to make it at home. By making your own mixers, you can control the ingredients and flavors that go into your cocktails, ensuring that they are made with the freshest and most delicious ingredients. The ability to choose your own inputs is key. That way you can have organic fruits and vegetables or less processed alternatives. Homemade mixers are also free from artificial colors and flavors, making them a great option for those who prefer a more natural approach to mixology. We always think that natural is best. Stay away from the artificial ingredients when you're mixing.With a homemade mixer, you can experiment with new flavors and ingredients, creating unique and delicious cocktails that are tailored to your taste preferences.