Sip and Stay Awhile: Large Batch Cocktails for Staying Cool

Our guide to creating gather-friendly cocktails during the waning days of summer

There’s something about summer that calls for a drink to share. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or winding down after a long day at the lake, a single sip of these easy-going drinks will get you and your guests cooling off the right way.  

From fizzy mojitos to a boozy summer slush, we have all the drinks that will bring the party without the fuss. These large-batch cocktails take a few minutes of prep for a few hours of refreshing summer fun—that’s a win in our book.  Whatever vibe you’re going for, we have the right drink for you. These versatile sips are the best way to cool down your summer the best way we know how: with good company and great cocktails.  

Sangria 

All good things in life come with time, and a splash of red win never hurts. Sangria is the perfect must-make for a hot summer get-together. It’s easy, versatile, and instantly sets the mood for a summer gathering. It’s bright, bold, and it’s as easy to make as it is to sip 

What You’ll Need 

1 bottle of red win (go for something Spanish like Tempranillo or Garnacha)  

¼ cup of brandy  

¼ cup of orange liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier works well)  

¼ cup of lemon juice  

1 apple, sliced  

1 orange, sliced  

1 lemon, sliced  

1 cinnamon stick (optional, for some added kick) 

Club soda or sparkling water (for topping)  

How to Make 

First, pour everything except the bubbles into a large pitcher or bowl. Let the mixture marinate for 4 to 6 hours, or overnight, to really let the flavors soak in. When it’s ready to serve, throw in some ice and top if off with club soda for a little sparkle.  

Margarita Pitcher  

Margaritas have just the right amount of fruit, zest, and (of course) tequila. The best part? They’re just as easy to make as they are to sip on—whether it’s taco night or just a Tuesday. Here’s our foolproof margarita mixture that will have people pouring more.  

What You’ll Need 

2 cups of tequila (reach for a Silver or Blanco)  

1 cup of fresh lime Juice 

½ cup of orange liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau works well)  

¼ cup of simple syrup (or just measure with your heart)  

Lime wedges and flaky salt (because presentation matters) 

How to Make 

Start out by combining all the ingredients into a pitcher and stir well. Be sure to pop it in the fridge for at least an hour—and then voila! Serve over ice and add some drama with a lime wedge and a salt rim.  

Lemon Vodka Punch 

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade—and then add some vodka for good measure. This easy-to-make punch actually packs a punch, balancing just the right amount of sweetness and tang. It’s a crowd-pleaser: refreshing, simple, and perfect for big gatherings. Because let’s be honest—who doesn’t like lemonade? 

What You’ll Need 

4 cups of lemonade (freshly squeezed or store bought if you’re in a pinch)  

2 cups of vodka  

½ cup of triple sec  

½ cup fresh lemon juice  

1 to 2 cups of soda water or club soda (for some fizz fun)  

Lemon slices (for garnish)  

How to Make 

Combine everything but the club soda into a pitcher or punch bowl and give it a good stir. Let in chill in the fridge for an hour or two so the flavors can mingle. Then top with soda water before serving for a fizzy finish. Because we’re not amateurs, add some lemon slices for some drama. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy...literally.  

Mojito Pitcher  

The minty freshness in a mojito is the best way to beat the summer heat. The light and bright drink will bring a cool vibe to any gathering—whether it’s a backyard hang or a poolside party. The sweetness is easily adjustable too, so everyone can sip it just the way they like.  

What You’ll Need 

1 ½ cups of white rum  

½ cup of fresh lime juice  

¼ cup of simple syrup (or more if you’ve got a sweet side)  

1 bunch of fresh mint leaves 

4 cups of club soda (everything's better with bubbles) 

Lime wedges for decoration 

How to Make 

In a large pitcher, combine the mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup. With a little bit of elbow grease, mash it all to really unlock all the flavors and bring out that cool mint kick. Next, add your rum of choice and stir. You can let it chill in the fridge for a few hours or just pour it over ice. Before serving, top it with some bubbles and add a lime wedge or a sprig of mint as a finishing touch.  

Frosé (Frozen Rosé) 

If you want to add a bit of icy slush to your summer, frosé is the way to keep cool while still enjoying a glass by the pool. It’s a fun and refreshing twist on your favorite rosé wine—and is basically summer in a glass. 

What You’ll Need 

1 bottle of rosé wine (or 2 cups if you’re measuring from an open bottle) 

½ cup of fresh strawberries (or strawberry puree, if you’re feeling fancy) 

¼ cup of simple syrup (can adjust for sweetness) 

¼ cup lemon juice 

Ice 

How to Make 

To start, blend all the ingredients without the ice to make sure the flavors meld. When everything is jiving, go ahead and add the ice until it reaches a slushy consistency—and you’re ready to serve. If you have extra strawberries or lemon, add those as a garnish for a light twist. 

Cucumber Gin Fizz 

Cool cucumber paired with refreshing gin makes this drink light and breezy for a warm summer hangout. A splash of sparkling soda adds just the right amount of fizz and the hint of lime brightens every sip. No matter what you’re doing this summer, stay cool with this sip. 

What You’ll Need 

1 ½ cups of gin  

½ cup of fresh lime juice  

¼ cup of simple syrup  

1 cucumber (thinly sliced) 

4 cups of club soda  

Cucumber for garnish (ribbons or wedges, whatever you’re feeling)  

How to Make 

Add the cucumber slices to a pitcher and gently muddle to bring out the crisp, refreshing flavor. Next, add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup into the mix—stirring well. It’s ready to serve after pouring over ice and topping it all off with some bubbles. Serve with cucumber wedges or ribbons for an extra boost of freshness.  

Peach Bourbon Smash 

If you’re looking for a slightly stronger cocktail for some summer fun with just the right touch of sweetness, the Peach Bourbon Smash is a definite must-make. Juicy peaches, fresh mint, and bourbon come together for a bold, yet refreshing drink, perfect for a mid-afternoon hang.  

What You’ll Need 

2 cups of Bourbon (we recommend Four Branches or High West)

1 cup of fresh muddle peaches (peach puree works wonders too) 

½ cup of fresh lemon juice  

¼ cup simple syrup 

Fresh mint leaves  

How to Make

Muddle the peaches. In a large pitcher, muddle fresh peach slices (or use peach purée) until smooth and fragrant. Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.Gently clap fresh mint leaves between your palms to release the oils, then add them to the pitcher. Garnish with extra mint sprigs and peach slices for a fresh, summery finish.

So, whether your summer looks like a full-on backyard bash, a quiet evening with a few close friends, or a lazy afternoon by the water, these big-batch cocktails have you covered. With minimal prep and maximum refreshment, all that’s left to do is pour, sip, and soak up the sunshine. Here’s to good drinks, great company, and a summer worth savoring—cheers!

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About the Author

Chloe Castain is a dynamic writer and content creator who recently earned her degree in journalism from the University of South Carolina. During her time at USC, she honed her reporting and storytelling skills, contributing to both student publications and professional outlets. Chloe has made an impact as a news journalist while also flourishing as a content creator within the high-speed world of NASCAR. Her versatile portfolio spans in-depth reporting, feature writing, and multimedia storytelling. Chloe is also a respected contributor to Palomino County magazine, where her insightful pieces reflect her passion for community-focused storytelling and her evolving voice in contemporary journalism.