Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, especially when it comes to mixing drinks. Here we’ve gathered a collection of delicious cocktails that require only three ingredients, proving that you don’t need a fully stocked bar to create great drinks! Whether you’re a novice bartender or just looking to streamline your drink-making process, these recipes will help you craft elegant cocktails with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini cocktail may have been invented by author Ian Fleming in the James Bond novel Casino Royale, but this mythical beverage sometimes described as “the perfect martini” is a classic on to its own! With only three ingredients, it’s not for the faint of heart, being a spirit-only cocktail. Unlike a classic martini recipe which uses either gin or vodka, this recipe combines Gordon’s Gin with vodka and is sweetened slightly by the Kina Lillet!
Find the Vesper Martini recipe.
Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that perfectly balances bitter, sweet, and herbal flavors. This iconic drink consists of 3 equal parts of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, typically garnished with an orange peel for a burst of citrus aroma. So simple and so Italian.
Find the Negroni recipe.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is often described as the whiskey lover’s Negroni. This sophisticated cocktail swaps out the gin for bourbon, while keeping the Campari and sweet vermouth, resulting in a richer, more robust flavor profile.
Find the Boulevardier recipe.
Manhattan
The Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that combines whiskey (traditionally rye, though bourbon is also popular), sweet vermouth, and a dash of Angostura bitters, typically garnished with a cocktail cherry or a twist of lemon peel. It is so easy to make.
Find the Manhattan recipe!
Rob Roy
The Rob Roy is essentially a Scotch-based variation of the Manhattan. This cocktail combines blended Scotch whisky with sweet vermouth and a dash of Angostura bitters, offering a smoky twist on its American counterpart.
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Margarita
The Margarita is a zesty, refreshing cocktail that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and salty flavors. This iconic Mexican-inspired drink typically consists of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau, often served with a salt rim and a lime wedge garnish – again only 3 ingredients!!
Find the Margarita recipe!
Daiquiri
This Cuban-born drink combines white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, shaken with ice and strained into a chilled glass, resulting in a perfectly balanced blend of sweet and sour flavors. A rum lovers’ favorite!
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Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a popular Italian aperitivo cocktail known for its vibrant orange color and refreshing taste. This effervescent drink combines Aperol (a bittersweet orange-based liqueur), prosecco, and a splash of soda water, typically garnished with an orange slice and served over ice.
Find the Aperol Spritz recipe!
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail! This simple yet potent drink is made with cachaça (a Brazilian spirit distilled from sugarcane juice), lime, and sugar, muddled together and served over crushed ice, creating a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and strong.
Find the Caipirinha recipe!
Dark ‘n Stormy
The Dark ‘n Stormy is the Bermudian drink that traditionally combines dark rum (specifically Gosling’s Black Seal Rum) with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime, served over ice, creating a refreshing and slightly stormy-looking beverage.
Find the Dark ‘n Stormy recipe!