Batched Cocktail Recipes
If you aren’t hiring a bartender for your event, one of the best ways to keep bar service easy is to offer a batched cocktail. For smaller events at my house (12 people or fewer), I like to offer one beer option (in bottles), a red and white wine option, and a batched cocktail. This allows you to spend more time enjoying your own event instead of turning into the bartender for everyone else.
I select my cocktail based on my guests. For example, if it’s a mixed group, I choose something that works for men and women, such as my Lemon Whiskey Punch. For an all-female group, my batched Cosmopolitans are a favorite. Below is a collection of my go-to recipes. Cheers, y’all!
Mary’s Tips
Each recipe includes instructions on how to make your batched cocktail in advance if possible.
For individual cocktails, add at least half a shot (about ¾ ounce) per serving to compensate for ice melting during shaking. To adjust for a larger batch – whether you're making a pitcher (roughly 8 servings) or a punch bowl (around 16 servings) – simply multiply that amount accordingly.
To dilute a batched recipe, you can add water to the mixture or provide still or sparking water next to your punch. I suggest adding roughly 1-2 cups of water to your batched cocktail depending on taste, or you can offer additional ice or sparkling water for guests to top off their own individual servings as needed.
I almost always set up a self-serve drink station with everything my guests might need – glassware, garnishes, and mixers – so they can help themselves. Once you've prepared or served the initial drinks, you can relax, knowing that your house cocktail is ready to go and tastes just right.
