How to Create a Build-Your-Own Cocktail/Mocktail Bar
Perhaps in some old school version of entertaining the host posts up behind the home bar and plays bartender, shaking and stirring up cocktails all night. But that’s not really how things work these days! Hosts, who already have their hands full with cleaning, cooking and planning, should be able to mingle with guests and enjoy the evening just as much as everyone else.
Setting up a self-serve bar, where people can build their own cocktails or mocktails, is not only a clever way to avoid getting stuck making drinks, it’s also a more inclusive and interactive experience for guests. Each person can make their own custom creation and can choose to add alcohol or make a zero-proof drink. A group activity with plenty of opportunity for sharing tips and stories, it’s also a great way for everyone to meet or reconnect.
The good news is that providing this experience for your guests is totally doable! You only need a designated area: a buffet, sideboard, kitchen island or counter are all great candidates. Just be sure to put down a tablecloth or mats to prevent water marks if it’s a wooden surface.
Mixers
This is the fun part! You can let your imagination run wild with fun things so guests may experiment. At minimum, you’ll need club soda and tonic water, top-quality pure citrus juices, organic juice blends, organic single-fruit juices and a few kinds of simple syrup.
Ready to get into it?
Here’s a quick-and-easy guide on how to create a build-your-own cocktail/mocktail bar:
Ice & Tongs
No matter what kind of drinks you plan to serve, you’ll definitely need ice. If your freezer is equipped with an icemaker, fill a few containers (or better yet, a cooler) with ice ahead of time. Or, buy a bag of ice and keep it chilled. This makes it easy to replenish the ice buckets when they get low.
And speaking of ice buckets, you will need an insulated vessel for the bar ice. Ideally, your bar will have two ice buckets, one at each end — if you don’t own two, ask around! A friend or neighbor probably has one they can lend. Tongs are also key to keep things hygienic.
Spirits (If Using)
If you’re serving alcohol, you don’t need to have an immense number of options. The main four — vodka, gin, bourbon and tequila — are more than sufficient! To expand the selection a little more, add rum, an aperitivo like Campari, triple sec, dry and sweet vermouth, and a dropper of bitters. To really go the extra mile, consider including mezcal, scotch and amaro.
If you’re only serving zero-proof drinks, invest in a bottle or two of non-alcoholic spirits; there are now many on the market.
To make homemade flavored simple syrups:
Combine equal parts white sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil, stirring so the sugar dissolves.
Turn off the heat and add any ingredients you like.
Some tasty options include:
Fresh herbs (mint, basil, rosemary)
Dried flowers (lavender, hibiscus, chamomile)
Fresh fruit (cucumber, berries, citrus)
Spices (jalapeno peppers, cinnamon, ginger)
Let the syrup cool and steep for 30-60 minutes, then strain into a glass jar or bottle.
Add a label so guests know what to expect!
Simple syrups can last in jars or other sealed containers in the fridge for 7-10 days. You can make them in advance to help with party prep!
You can also make groupings of ingredients to encourage certain flavor combinations. For instance:
Lavender syrup, Organic 100% Pure Lemon Juice and sparkling wine for a floral spritz.
Tequila, triple sec and Organic 100% Pure Lime Juice for a DIY margarita.
Rosemary syrup,Just Pomegranate Juice, bourbon and club soda for a wintry cocktail.
Just Tart Cherry Juice with flavored seltzer for a fun n/a option.
Vodka and Half & Half Iced Tea Lemonade for a spiked Arnold Palmer.
Rum with Orange Mango Juice Blend and Just Pineapple Juice for a tropical treat.
Check out our recipe collection for more mocktail ideas and inspiration!
Garnishes
Don’t forget a few garnishes for that special touch. On a pretty plate or tray, add fresh lemon, lime and orange slices, and some whole citrus fruit with a peeler. Maraschino cherries, olives, and sprigs of fresh mint and rosemary are fun, too! Add some frilly toothpicks in a small glass and perhaps some paper umbrellas if you want some extra-festive vibes.
However you organize your cocktail/mocktail station, raise the bar with Santa Cruz Organic juices, which deliver bold, fresh flavor in every sip. To find our products near you, use our helpful “Where to Buy” search tool!