If you’re looking to make impressive and delicious cocktails, but don’t want to buy a ton of ingredients or bottles of liqueur you’re never going to use again, these simple 3-ingredient cocktails are perfect for you.
These recipes are easy to follow and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to whip up a cocktail quickly with few ingredients.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or prefer something with a modern twist, there’s a 3-ingredient cocktail recipe on this list that suits you. From the refreshing taste of a margarita to the bold flavors of a Manhattan, these cocktails are classics.
Plus, with only 3 ingredients, you won’t have to worry about stocking up on too many different liquors or mixers. So, grab your shaker and get ready to shake up a few cocktails.
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Understanding 3-Ingredient Cocktails
As the name suggests, these cocktails only require three ingredients, making them simple to prepare.
While you might think that 3-ingredient cocktails are too basic or lack complexity, that’s not necessarily the case. With the right combination of ingredients, you can create a delicious and well-balanced cocktail that’s just as satisfying as more complex drinks.
One of the benefits of 3-ingredient cocktails is that they allow the flavors of the individual ingredients to shine through. It’s important to choose high-quality ingredients and to use them in the right proportions.
In the craft cocktail world, 3-ingredient cocktails are often referred to as “classic” or “timeless” cocktails. These drinks have stood the test of time and remain popular today because of their simplicity and deliciousness. Some of the most famous 3-ingredient cocktails include the Negroni, the Margarita, and the Daiquiri.
Essential Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Cocktails
Non-Alcoholic Ingredients
Before we dive into the alcoholic ingredients, let’s talk about non-alcoholic ones. These ingredients are just as important as the alcohol, as they provide the flavor and balance to the cocktail.
- Citrus juices: Lemon, lime, and orange juices are the most commonly used citrus juices in cocktails. They provide a sour and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the alcohol.
- Syrups: Simple syrup, honey syrup, and agave syrup are commonly used in cocktails. They add sweetness and balance to the drink.
- Bitters: Bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from herbs, spices, and fruits. They add depth and complexity to the cocktail.
Now that we’ve covered the non-alcoholic ingredients let’s move on to the alcoholic ones.
Alcoholic Ingredients
- Gin: Gin is a clear spirit made from juniper berries. It has a distinct herbal flavor and is commonly used in classic cocktails like the Martini and the Negroni.
- Vodka: Vodka is a neutral spirit that is commonly used in cocktails. It has a clean taste and pairs well with fruit juices and syrups.
- Tequila: Tequila is a spirit made from the blue agave plant. It has a distinct earthy flavor and is commonly used in cocktails like the Margarita and the Paloma. Blanco tequila is unaged and has a clean, crisp flavor.
- Rum: Rum is a spirit made from sugarcane. Dark rum is aged longer than light rum and has a rich, caramel flavor. It is commonly used in cocktails like the Mai Tai and the Dark and Stormy. Light rum is unaged and has a clean, crisp flavor. It is commonly used in cocktails like the Daiquiri and the Mojito.
- Bourbon/Whiskey: Bourbon and whiskey are both made from grains like corn, rye, and barley. They have a smoky flavor and are commonly used in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan.
- Cognac: Cognac is a type of brandy made from grapes. It has a rich, fruity flavor and is commonly used in classic cocktails like the Sidecar and the Brandy Alexander.
- Champagne/Prosecco: Champagne and Prosecco are sparkling wines that add a bubbly and festive element to cocktails. They are commonly used in cocktails like the Bellini and the Mimosa.
- Sherry: Sherry is a fortified wine that adds a nutty and sweet flavor to cocktails. It is commonly used in cocktails like the Bamboo and the Adonis.
- Mezcal: Mezcal is a spirit made from the agave plant. It has a smoky flavor and is commonly used in cocktails like the Mezcal Margarita and the Oaxaca Old Fashioned.
- Lillet Blanc: Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif wine that has a sweet and citrusy flavor. It is commonly used in cocktails like the Vesper and the Corpse Reviver #2.
- Red Wine: Red wine is commonly used in cocktails like the Sangria and the Kalimotxo.
Remember, the key to a great 3-ingredient cocktail is balance. Make sure to use the right amount of each ingredient to create a perfectly balanced drink.
Classic 3-Ingredient Cocktails
When you want to enjoy a classic cocktail without the fuss, turn to these 3-ingredient recipes that have stood the test of time. Whether you prefer a strong martini or a refreshing margarita, there’s a classic cocktail for every taste.
Martini
The martini is a classic cocktail that’s been enjoyed for over a century. Made with gin or vodka and dry vermouth, this cocktail is perfect for sipping before dinner or at a fancy party. For a twist on the classic recipe, try a dirty martini with a splash of olive juice.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 oz gin or vodka
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- Lemon twist or olives for garnish
Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that’s made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. This bittersweet cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Garnish: Orange peel
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing cocktail that’s made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. Served in a copper mug, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying with friends at a backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- Garnish: Lime wedge
Margarita
The margarita is a classic cocktail that’s made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying with friends at a Mexican restaurant.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- Garnish: Salt for rim, Lime wedge
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing aperitif that’s made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. This bright orange cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a rooftop bar.
Ingredients:
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz soda water
- Garnish: Orange slice
Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that’s made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Served in a martini glass, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or enjoying with friends at a cozy bar.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Maraschino cherry
Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that’s made with cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. Served in a sugar-rimmed glass, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a fancy restaurant.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz cognac or brandy
- 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- Garnish: Sugar for rim, Lemon twist
White Russian
The White Russian is a classic cocktail that’s made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Served over ice, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or enjoying with friends at a cozy bar.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
Mimosa
The mimosa is a classic brunch cocktail that’s made with orange juice and champagne. Served in a champagne flute, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a lazy Sunday morning or enjoying with friends at a fancy brunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz champagne or sparkling wine
- Orange slice for garnish
Try one of these creative holiday mimosas!
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that’s made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Served over ice, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a fancy bar.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Garnish: Orange peel
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a classic cocktail that’s made with rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Served in a sugar-rimmed glass, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying with friends at a backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 3/4 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Garnish: Lime wedge
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha is a classic Brazilian cocktail that’s made with cachaça, lime, and sugar. Served over ice, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a Brazilian restaurant.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz cachaça
- 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tsp sugar
Champagne Cocktail
The Champagne Cocktail is a classic cocktail that’s made with champagne, sugar, and bitters. Served in a champagne flute, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a special occasion or enjoying with friends at a fancy party.
Ingredients:
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Champagne or sparkling wine
- Garnish: Lemon twist
Espresso Martini
If you’re a fan of coffee, you’ll love the Espresso Martini. This cocktail is made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso. Shake all three ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. It’s a perfect pick-me-up for when you need a little caffeine boost.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz Kahlua or coffee liqueur
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- Garnish: Coffee beans
The Grasshopper
A Grasshopper cocktail is a sweet and creamy mint-flavored cocktail that is often served as a dessert drink. It’s a classic cocktail made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz green crème de menthe
- 1 oz white crème de cacao
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Garnish: Mint sprig
Brandy Alexander
A Brandy Alexander cocktail is a rich and creamy dessert drink made with brandy, crème de cacao, and cream, and is typically garnished with nutmeg. It’s a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades and is perfect for sipping after dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz brandy
- 1 oz white crème de cacao
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Garnish: Nutmeg
Pina Colada
The Pina Colada is a classic tropical cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. To make this drink, you’ll need pineapple juice, white rum, and coconut milk. Combine all three ingredients in a blender with ice and blend until smooth. Serve in a tall glass with a pineapple wedge and a cherry for garnish.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 2 oz coconut cream
- Garnish: Pineapple wedge and/or cherry
Sea Breeze
The Sea Breeze is a tart and refreshing drink that combines grapefruit and cranberry juices with vodka. To make this cocktail, combine grapefruit juice, cranberry juice, and vodka in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 4 oz grapefruit juice
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- Garnish: Lime wedge
Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a simple and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for brunch. To make this drink, you’ll need fresh orange juice and vodka. Combine the two ingredients in a highball glass filled with ice and stir well. Garnish with an orange slice.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz orange juice
- Garnish: orange slice
Americano
The Americano is a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for a hot summer day. It’s made with equal parts Campari, sweet vermouth, and club soda. The club soda adds a bit of fizz to the cocktail, while the Campari and sweet vermouth give it a bitter and sweet flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Club soda
- Garnish: Orange slice
Orange Bitters Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that’s made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, and bitters. To give the cocktail a bitter edge, you can substitute the traditional aromatic bitters with orange bitters. The orange bitters add a citrusy, bitter flavor to the cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Garnish: Orange peel
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Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.