13 Beer Cocktails for Getting Fancy Without Liquor

September 13, 2016
Photo: Brian Woodcock
If you’re not interested in busting out hard alcohol for cocktails but don’t want to just pop open a beer for your guests, then beer cocktails might be the perfect compromise. Whether it's an adult version of an ice cream float, a pilsner bloody mary, or a citrus-spiked shandy, these beer cocktails are perfect for changing up your booze game. 
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Grapefruit Beergaritas

Photo: Greg DuPree
View Recipe: 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

Elizabeth Laseter
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Christopher Testani
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Brian Woodcock
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Christopher Testani
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Johnny Miller
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Christopher Testani
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Johnny Autry
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Brian Woodcock
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Christopher Testani
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Randy Mayor; Jan Gautro
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Christopher Testani
View Recipe: 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

Photo: Brian Woodcock
View Recipe: 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.

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