The Best Coffee Cocktails for Summer Parties

Summer is all about relaxing with good company, great food, and refreshing drinks. While iced tea, lemonade, and fruity cocktails usually steal the spotlight, there's another option that might surprise you: coffee cocktails. These drinks combine the bold, rich flavor of coffee with the kick of alcohol, creating a perfect mix of energy and relaxation. 

Why are coffee cocktails so great for summer parties? They give you the best of both worlds. Coffee provides that little boost of energy to keep the fun going, while the ingredients help everyone unwind and enjoy the moment. Whether you're hosting a lively backyard BBQ, a sophisticated evening soiree, or a simple brunch with friends, coffee cocktails are the ultimate way to elevate your drink menu.

One of the best things about summer coffee drinks is their versatility. You can tailor them to suit any occasion, any time of day, and any guest. Prefer something light and fruity? Try a Coffee Lemonade. Want a sweet and creamy indulgence? A Spiked Iced Caramel Macchiato will hit the spot. 

So why not shake things up and add a list of coffee cocktails to your summer party? They’ll not only surprise your guests but also give them that extra boost to keep the good vibes flowing all night long.

What You’ll Need to Cool Down with Coffee Cocktails: The Essential Ingredients  

Before we get into the list of coffee cocktails, let’s talk about what you need. First, coffee. Cold brew is a great option for smooth, strong flavors, but iced coffee or espresso will work too. Then, you’ll want some alcohol. Vodka, rum, whiskey, and even tequila can mix beautifully with coffee. You’ll also want to stock up on add-ins like creamers, syrups, and flavored liqueurs to enhance your drinks. Having a variety of these essentials means you’ll be able to mix up a range of summer coffee cocktails for your guests.

Espresso Martini with a Summer Twist  

Let’s start with a classic that’s taken on a lighter vibe for summer: the Espresso Martini. This cocktail usually packs a punch with strong espresso and vodka, but we’re adding a citrusy twist to brighten it up. This is the best coffee cocktail recipe for evening parties when you need a little pick-me-up.

Recipe:  

• 1 shot of espresso (or strong cold brew)  
• 1.5 oz vodka  
• 0.5 oz coffee liqueur  
• 0.5 oz orange liqueur  
• Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an orange peel. 

Iced Coffee Sangria  

Who says sangria is just for wine? Combine the fruity, refreshing nature of sangria with the bold taste of iced coffee for a summer punch like no other. This summer coffee cocktail is perfect for daytime parties, brunch, or even by the pool.

Recipe:  

• 1 cup iced coffee  
• 1 cup red wine  
• Sliced oranges, berries, and a splash of orange juice  
• Stir together and chill for a few hours. Serve over ice with extra fruit. 

Cold Brew Rum Punch  

Here’s a tropical take on coffee cocktails. Cold brew adds a bold, smooth taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of rum and the tartness of pineapple. This drink will make you feel like you’re sipping in paradise. 

Recipe:  

• 1 cup cold brew coffee  
• 1.5 oz dark rum  
• 1 oz pineapple juice  
• - 0.5 oz coconut cream (optional for a creamy twist)  
• - Stir together and serve over ice, garnishing with a pineapple wedge.  

Irish Iced Coffee  

Irish coffee is usually a warm winter drink, but let’s give it a summer makeover. Serve it cold for those evenings when you want something rich but refreshing. This is one of the best coffee cocktails for a cozy evening under the stars.

Recipe:  

• 1 cup Angelino's Italian Roast
• 1.5 oz Irish whiskey  
• 1 tbsp brown sugar  
• Top with whipped cream  
• Stir the coffee, whiskey, and sugar, then pour over ice. Top with whipped cream and enjoy.  

Coffee Mojito  

A coffee mojito might sound surprising, but it’s a refreshing summer coffee drink that balances mint, lime, and coffee perfectly. This coffee cocktail is a bright, zesty drink for hot afternoons.

Recipe:  

• 1 cup cold brew coffee  
• 1 oz white rum  
• Fresh mint leaves/mint chip
• 1 tbsp lime juice  
• 1 tsp simple syrup  
• Muddle the mint and lime juice in a glass, then add ice, coffee, rum, and simple syrup. Stir well and garnish with more mint.  

Spiked Iced Caramel Macchiato

If you love a sweet caramel macchiato, why not give it a boozy upgrade? This cocktail is creamy, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent for a summer treat.

Recipe:

• 1 cup iced coffee
• 1 oz vanilla vodka
• 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
• 0.5 oz caramel syrup
• Top with frothed milk or whipped cream and a caramel drizzle
• Stir the coffee, vodka, liqueur, and caramel syrup, then pour over ice. Top with frothed milk or whipped cream, and drizzle with caramel.

Coffee Lemonade

This might sound strange, but coffee and lemonade are actually a surprisingly refreshing combination! It's a bold and citrusy coffee cocktail that will get people talking. This is a light, invigorating summer coffee drink that’s great for daytime gatherings

Recipe:

• 1 cup cold brew coffee
• 1/2 cup lemonade
• 1 oz vodka (optional)
• Lemon slices and a sprig of rosemary for garnish
• Mix the coffee and lemonade together and serve over ice. Add vodka for an extra kick, and garnish with lemon slices and rosemary.
  

Cinnamon Coffee Old Fashioned

Take the classic Old Fashioned and give it a coffee twist. This cocktail has depth and spice with a touch of sweetness, making it one of the best summer coffee drinks for evening sipping. This cocktail has a smoky, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with a laid-back summer evening.

Recipe:

• 2 oz cold brew coffee
• 1.5 oz bourbon
• 0.5 oz cinnamon simple syrup (or regular simple syrup with a pinch of cinnamon)
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Stir the coffee, bourbon, cinnamon syrup, and bitters together. Serve over ice with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for garnish. 

Coffee Negroni

If you enjoy a traditional Negroni, you’ll love this coffee-infused version. It’s bitter, smooth, and ideal for those who want something bold. This cocktail is a great addition to your list of coffee cocktails, perfect for those who like their drinks strong and complex.

Recipe:

• 1 oz cold brew coffee
• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz Campari
• Stir all ingredients together and serve over ice. Garnish with an orange peel.