13 Beer Cocktails for Getting Fancy Without Liquor
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Grapefruit Beergaritas
Fresh juice and a little simple syrup replace margarita mix to cut 4 teaspoons (16g) added sugars per serving. Diluting tequila with juice and beer makes for a gentler cocktail that'll keep guests free from personal fouls.
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Lemon-Lime-Radler
Half beer, half citrus soda, the Radler is Germany’s version of the shandy. Our take on this crisp, cooling libation is only 90 calories per serving and slashes sugar by trading store-bought soda for fresh lemon and lime juice. Our Radler is tangy and lightly sweet with just the right amount of bitterness for balance. The best part—we fully utilize all cans involved, so no awkward leftovers. For a twist, try swapping in different citrus juices or sparkling water flavors. For the best results, make sure your ingredients are sufficiently chilled beforehand.
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Rosa Mexicana
Sweet and bright red, hibiscus syrup combines with Mexican lager beer (such as Sol or Tecate) to make a unique cocktail.
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Honey Cider-Beer Cocktails
The cider-honey base of this fall beverage makes enough for a whole batch. Beer and cider are refreshing and lower in sugar and alcohol than stronger potions, which tend to go down a bit too easily. The cider syrup needs time to cool; let it rest while you get ready for your party.
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Snakebite
Adding hard cider to this beer creates a cocktail with a tangy edge and sweet notes to round it out. This cocktail is a perfect way to dress up your beer and create new flavors with any hard ciders that you have on hand.
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Citrus-Beer Shandy
Popular in Germany and other European countries, this beer-based mixed drink offers a subtle sour flavor. Premixed and homemade versions of shandy usually include carbonated lemonade but sometimes features different ingredients based on the location. This summertime variation blends fresh lemon and orange juice, honey, and vodka with the beer to create a refreshing seasonal drink.
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Chelada
Perfect for your next taco night, this cocktail combines Mexican pale lager beer (such as Corona) with limeade for a tangy refreshing drink. Garnish with a lime slice.
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Black Cauldron
This adults-only float is a must-make for a festive fall gathering. Depending on your crowd, you may want to provide straws, spoons, and refills. This beer float makes for a perfect dessert cocktail to finish off a great party or meal.
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Orange-Ginger Fizz
Is there anything better than beer and bourbon? In this fizzy concoction, we combine the two for a refreshing, citrusy treat.
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Michelada
Get any fiesta started with these frosty chillers. Simply combine Mexican pilsner beer (such as Pacifico) with Bloody Mary mix. Garnish with two pickled jalapeño slices.
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Bul
Serve a light, refreshing Cuban-inspired drink (pronounced "bool") made with lime juice, ginger ale, and your favorite bottled beer. We like it best with a pale ale or light-colored beer.
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Paloma Frio
This cooling treat is a CL staff fave. Place 6 ounces Dos Equis Lager and ½ cup ice in a blender; process until slushy. Place in a salt-rimmed glass, if desired, and top with 4 ounces grapefruit soda.
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Haymarket
This cocktail plays with the notion of a beer cocktail and refines it. Lime and cucumber give this innovative cocktail a refreshing, subtle edge.