campfire cocktails - summer drinks we love

Campfire Cocktails: 3 Summer Drinks We Love

There's something magical about sipping a well-crafted cocktail under the open sky, surrounded by nature's beauty. Whether you're lounging by the lake, gathered around a campfire, or watching the sunset from your campsite, these three easy-to-make cocktails will help you kick off happy hour the right way.

1. The Trailblazer's Mojito

Mojito by the fire

Why It's Perfect for Camping: This classic Cuban cocktail is light, refreshing, and requires minimal ingredients. Ideal for a hot summer day in the woods.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz white rum
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 6 fresh mint leaves
  • Soda water
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. In a sturdy cup, muddle the mint leaves with sugar and lime juice to release the mint's aroma.
  2. Fill the cup with ice and pour in the rum.
  3. Top off with soda water and stir gently.
  4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge.

2. Campfire Old Fashioned

Campfire old fashioned drink

Why It's Perfect for Camping: A timeless cocktail that warms you up as the evening cools down, the Old Fashioned is simple to make and packs a flavorful punch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1 sugar cube or 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Orange peel
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Place the sugar cube in a cup and saturate with bitters.
  2. Add a splash of water and muddle until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Fill the cup with ice and pour in the whiskey.
  4. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel.

3. Sunset Sangria

sunset sangria

Why It's Perfect for Camping: Sangria is a versatile, make-ahead cocktail that's perfect for sharing with friends around the campfire.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of red wine
  • 1/4 cup brandy
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • Soda water (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large container, combine the wine, brandy, orange juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the sliced fruits and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or keep in a cooler).
  3. When ready to serve, pour into cups over ice and top with soda water if desired.

Bonus: The Camp Cooler Mocktail

Why It's Perfect for Camping: This mocktail is bright, citrusy, and thirst-quenching, with just enough fizz to make it feel special. It’s also super easy to batch and store in a cooler.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup cranberry juice
  • 1/4 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
  • Squeeze of lime
  • Orange or lime slice for garnish
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Fill your camping cup with ice.
  2. Pour in the orange juice, cranberry juice, and a squeeze of lime.
  3. Top with sparkling water or soda and stir.
  4. Garnish with a citrus slice and enjoy by the fire or under the sun.

Optional: Add a sprig of mint or a splash of pineapple juice for tropical vibes.


Tips for Camp Cocktail Success:

  • Prep Ahead: Measure and mix ingredients at home when possible to minimize campsite tasks.
  • Pack Smart: Bring along essential tools like a muddler, stirring spoon, and a sharp knife.
  • Stay Cool: Bring lots of ice and use a reliable cooler to keep ingredients and mixers chilled.
  • Grab some extra cupholders for your Chuk Kitchen Box for a convenient spot to put all your drinks! 

Embrace the joy of outdoor mixology and make your camping trips even more memorable with these delightful cocktails. Cheers to adventure!

 

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