Ginger ale adds a zesty kick to cocktails. It mixes well with many types of alcohol to create tasty drinks. You can use it to make both classic and creative cocktails at home.
These 13 ginger ale cocktail recipes will give you new ideas for refreshing drinks. They range from simple two-ingredient mixes to more complex concoctions. You’ll find options using rum, whiskey, vodka and other spirits. Try them out to find your new favorite ginger ale cocktail.
This refreshing twist on the classic mojito swaps rum for ginger ale. You’ll love its zingy, bubbly flavor.
To make it, muddle fresh mint leaves and lime juice in a glass. Add ice and pour in ginger ale. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
For extra zing, add a splash of ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.
This drink is perfect for summer parties or anytime you want a cool, non-alcoholic treat. The ginger ale adds a sweet, spicy kick that complements the mint and lime beautifully.
Ginger ale margaritas offer a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. You’ll love this bubbly version that adds a spicy kick to your drink.
To make one, mix tequila, lime juice, and a touch of agave syrup in a shaker with ice. Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice and top it off with ginger ale.
For extra flavor, rim your glass with salt before pouring. You can also add a slice of lime as a garnish. This drink is perfect for summer parties or relaxing evenings at home.
The Ginger Ale Gin Fizz is a refreshing twist on the classic Gin Fizz. You’ll love this easy-to-make cocktail that combines the crispness of gin with the spicy sweetness of ginger ale.
To make this drink, fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of gin, then top it off with 4 ounces of ginger ale. Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors.
For extra zest, squeeze in a wedge of fresh lime. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint. The bubbles from the ginger ale create a fizzy texture that’s perfect for sipping on a warm day.
The Ginger Ale Spritz is a light and refreshing cocktail perfect for warm days. You’ll love how easy it is to make.
Start with a wine glass filled with ice. Pour in equal parts red wine and ginger ale. The crisp ginger ale balances the wine’s richness.
Add a splash of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge and a cucumber slice for extra freshness.
This simple spritzer is great for casual gatherings. You can adjust the wine-to-ginger ale ratio to suit your taste. It’s a versatile drink that works well with different wine varieties too.
The Ginger Ale Paloma offers a refreshing twist on the classic Mexican cocktail. You’ll love this bubbly and citrusy drink on a hot day.
To make it, fill a tall glass with ice. Add 2 ounces of tequila and 2 ounces of fresh grapefruit juice. Squeeze in the juice from half a lime for extra zing.
Top off the glass with ginger ale instead of the traditional grapefruit soda. Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors. For a finishing touch, garnish with a grapefruit wedge or lime slice.
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit with the sweet spiciness of ginger ale. It’s easy to make and perfect for sipping by the pool or at your next barbecue.
The Ginger Ale Bourbon Smash is a refreshing twist on the classic whiskey cocktail. You’ll love how the spicy bourbon mingles with the sweet, bubbly ginger ale.
To make this drink, muddle fresh mint leaves and lemon wedges in a glass. Add ice, bourbon, and ginger ale. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
The result is a cool, invigorating beverage perfect for warm summer evenings. The mint adds a crisp note, while the lemon provides a zesty kick.
This cocktail is easy to customize. Try using different bourbons to find your favorite flavor profile. You can also adjust the ratio of bourbon to ginger ale to suit your taste.
Ginger Ale Mimosa offers a fresh twist on the classic brunch cocktail. You’ll love this bubbly drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
To make it, mix equal parts orange juice and ginger ale in a champagne flute. Add a splash of maple syrup for sweetness if desired.
Garnish your drink with a slice of fresh orange and a piece of candied ginger. The fizzy ginger ale adds a zingy kick to the fruity orange juice.
This simple cocktail is easy to make in large batches for parties. You can also create a mocktail version by using sparkling water instead of ginger ale.
This quick and easy cocktail combines the classic British Pimm’s No. 1 with refreshing ginger ale. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in 2 oz of Pimm’s No. 1.
Top it off with 4 oz of ginger ale and stir gently. Add cucumber slices, mint leaves, and orange slices for garnish.
The spicy notes of ginger ale complement the herbal flavors of Pimm’s. This drink is perfect for warm summer days or whenever you want a simple, tasty cocktail.
This refreshing twist on the classic Aperol Spritz adds a zingy kick with ginger ale. You’ll need Aperol, Prosecco, and ginger ale to create this cocktail.
Fill a large wine glass with ice. Pour in 2 oz of Aperol and 2 oz of Prosecco. Top it off with 1-2 oz of ginger ale.
Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the ingredients. For a festive touch, garnish with an orange slice or a sprig of rosemary.
This cocktail is perfect for fall gatherings. It combines the bittersweet flavors of Aperol with the fizzy spiciness of ginger ale.
The History of Ginger Ale in Cocktails
Ginger ale has been a popular mixer in cocktails for over a century. Its crisp, spicy flavor adds depth and fizz to many classic drinks.
Origins and Evolution
Ginger ale first appeared in the 1850s as a non-alcoholic beverage. James Vernor, a Detroit pharmacist, is credited with creating the first ginger ale in 1866. He aged his syrup in oak barrels, giving it a unique flavor.
By the early 1900s, ginger ale became a common mixer in bars. Bartenders loved its versatility and ability to complement various spirits. The Moscow Mule, created in the 1940s, helped cement ginger ale’s place in cocktail culture.
As cocktail trends evolved, so did ginger ale’s role. Craft cocktail bars now use artisanal ginger ales or make their own ginger syrups for a more intense flavor.
Popular Variations Over the Decades
In the 1920s, the Gin Rickey with ginger ale gained popularity. This simple mix of gin, lime juice, and ginger ale was a refreshing choice during Prohibition.
The 1950s saw the rise of the Mamie Taylor, a blend of Scotch whisky, lime juice, and ginger ale. Named after a famous opera singer, it became a hit at cocktail parties.
In recent years, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy has become a favorite. This mix of dark rum and ginger ale offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes.
Ginger ale continues to inspire new cocktail creations. Mixologists experiment with different spirits and flavor combinations, keeping this classic mixer relevant in modern bartending.
Health Benefits of Ginger Ale
Ginger ale can offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation. The ginger content may help ease nausea and upset stomach. This makes it a popular choice for settling queasiness.
Some people drink ginger ale to help with motion sickness or morning sickness during pregnancy. The carbonation can also help relieve gas and bloating.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that might reduce muscle pain and soreness. It may also support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Keep in mind that many commercial ginger ales contain very little real ginger. Look for brands made with actual ginger root for the most benefits.
Ginger ale is often high in sugar, so enjoy it in small amounts. Diet versions are available if you want to avoid extra calories. You can also make your own ginger ale at home using fresh ginger and sparkling water.
While ginger ale can provide some perks, it’s not a health drink. Water, tea, and fresh ginger are better options for getting ginger’s benefits regularly.
Pairing Ginger Ale Cocktails with Food
Ginger ale cocktails offer great flexibility for food pairings. Their refreshing taste complements many dishes across appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
Best Appetizers
Light, savory appetizers work well with ginger ale cocktails. Try pairing them with:
Cheese plates: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese balance the drink’s sweetness
Bruschetta: The acidity of tomatoes matches the cocktail’s zesty notes
Spring rolls: Fresh veggies complement the ginger’s crispness
Shrimp cocktail: Seafood enhances the drink’s refreshing quality
Avoid heavy, fried appetizers that might overpower the cocktail’s flavors. Stick to bite-sized options that let you enjoy both food and drink easily.
Main Course Pairings
For main dishes, focus on foods that benefit from ginger ale’s spicy-sweet profile:
Grilled chicken or fish: The cocktail’s lightness works with lean proteins
Asian-inspired stir-fries: Ginger notes complement these flavors well
Salads with fruit: Sweet elements in the salad echo the drink’s sweetness
Barbecue: The drink’s fizz cuts through rich, smoky flavors
Avoid very spicy foods, as they might clash with the cocktail. Instead, pick dishes with subtle seasonings that let the drink shine.
Dessert Pairings
Ginger ale cocktails can be a great match for desserts. Try these pairings:
Lemon tart: Citrus flavors blend nicely with ginger
Vanilla ice cream: The cocktail’s spice contrasts with creamy sweetness
Apple pie: Fruity notes complement the drink’s crisp taste
Gingerbread: Enhances the cocktail’s ginger flavors
Avoid chocolate-heavy desserts, as they may overpower the drink. Opt for fruit-based or light, creamy desserts that let the cocktail’s fizz and flavor come through.
