It's officially one of those scorching summer days, and you know what that means—time to beat the heat with some refreshing drinks! When the sun is blazing and that thirst kicks in, what's the first iced beverage you crave? Is it a fizzy, chilled Coca-Cola? A creamy cup of iced bubble tea? Or maybe a zesty ginger beer, served over a satisfyingly large chunk of ice? Picture this: you've just wrapped up an intense game of football with friends, the glowing red sun dipping low in the sky. You rush back home, fling open the fridge, and there it is—a perfectly chilled drink waiting to refresh you. Pure bliss, right?
But here's the thing: more often than not, I find myself staring at an empty fridge, wishing I'd stocked up. Why? Because every time I'm at the supermarket, standing in front of the endless beverage aisle, I'm hit with decision paralysis. One drink seems too sweet, another too unhealthy, and nothing feels just right. Sound familiar? And don't even get me started on those mesmerizing videos of people making vibrant lattes or colorful fruit teas—DIY drinks that scream "cool summer vibes." They look so fun, but who has the time (or budget) for daily café runs? The solution? Make those dreamy iced beverages at home and kick off your very own refreshing summer ritual.
From: Amanda Kevin
What makes the perfect summer drink?
Once you've decided to dive into the world of easy-to-make drinks, the next step is figuring out what really hits the spot. Whether you're cooling off after a sweaty workout or just looking for something to sip by the pool, the best refreshing beverages should check a few key boxes.
Here's what every good summer drink needs:
1）Refreshing and cooling—ASAP:
——The ultimate goal of any drink in summer?
——To chill you out, fast.
Think fruit teas bursting with citrus flavor or a zippy glass of lemonade—both work wonders to bring your temperature down in a flash. And if you're craving something a bit creamier, a frosty fruit smoothie is always a winner for beating the heat.
2）Super easy to make:
Let's be real: we've all watched those TikToks or Instagram reels of people whipping up gorgeous, Instagram-worthy drinks. But how often do we actually make them? If you're here, I'm guessing the answer is...not so often (no judgment, though—summer laziness is real, right?). The thought of slicing fruit and dirtying five different cups just to end up with something overly complicated? Hard pass. That's why I'll be sharing recipes that are as simple as they come—some involve just two or three ingredients. You've got this!
3）Healthy and nutrient-packed:
Hot weather can totally zap your appetite, which is when a wholesome drink can be your best friend. Sometimes, I'll even skip dinner and opt for a big bowl of smoothie goodness instead. The trick? Stick to ingredients like milk, yogurt, and fresh fruit—refreshing, nourishing, and not overly sweet. That way, you'll actually enjoy every last drop.
4）Electrolyte replenishment:
You've probably heard about the importance of electrolytes, especially after a sweat-filled workout session. But are you adding them to your drinks? No worries if you're not sure how—it's easier than you think! Keep reading for tips on sneaking those essential minerals into your favorite beverages.
Now that you know what makes a truly satisfying drink, let's dive into the good stuff. Keep scrolling for my favorite summer drink recipes—trust me, you're gonna want to bookmark these!
Seven drinks using ice cube Trays and Ways to make them
From: Pixabay
1)Cucumber or Mint Infused Lemonade
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
How It Tastes: Fresh, crisp, and cool with a refreshing herbal twist.
Reason for Recommendation: Perfect for a hot summer day, cucumber and mint-infused ice cubes elevate classic lemonade into a sophisticated, spa-like drink.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Lemonade (pre-made or fresh-squeezed)
◦ Cucumber slices
◦ Fresh mint leaves
◦ Water
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Slice cucumbers thinly and place them in your ice cube tray, along with a few fresh mint leaves in each compartment.
2. Fill the tray with water and freeze for 4-6 hours.
3. Prepare lemonade and pour it into a glass.
4. Add the frozen cucumber and mint ice cubes for extra flavor as they melt.
2)Iced Ginger Beer
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
How It Tastes: Spicy, zesty, and invigorating with a hint of sweetness.
Reason for Recommendation: Ginger beer cubes add an extra punch to cocktails (like Moscow Mules) or can be enjoyed on their own as a refreshing spicy drink.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Ginger beer
◦ Lime juice (optional)
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Pour ginger beer directly into the ice cube tray compartments. Squeeze a little lime juice into each compartment for an added citrus kick.
5. Freeze for at least 6 hours.
6. Add these ginger beer ice cubes into a glass of soda water or use them in a cocktail to keep your drink cold while intensifying its flavor.
From: Cottonbro Studio
3) Oolong Tea Blended With Frozen Watermelon
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
How It Tastes: A fruity, earthy combination that's slightly sweet and soothing.
Reason for Recommendation: A perfect pairing of refreshing watermelon and smooth oolong tea for a unique iced tea experience.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Watermelon chunks
◦ Oolong tea
◦ Honey or sugar (optional)
◦ Ice cube tray
◦ Blender
Procedure:
1. Blend fresh watermelon chunks until smooth, and pour the puree into your ice cube tray compartments. Freeze for 6 hours.
7. Brew your oolong tea, sweeten it lightly with honey or sugar, and let it cool.
8. Add the watermelon ice cubes to a glass of cold oolong tea. Stir or blend for a fruity twist.
4) Water With Blood Orange Ice Cubes
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
How It Tastes: Subtly citrusy and sweet with a vibrant aroma.
Reason for Recommendation: Blood orange ice cubes add color and flavor to plain water, which is suitable for photographing and water supply.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Blood orange juice (fresh or bottled) and sliced orange
◦ Water
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Fill the ice cube tray compartments with blood orange juice and sliced orange.
2. Freeze for 4 hours or until solid.
3. Add the blood orange ice cubes to chilled water or soda water.
From: Pixabay
5) Salt Lemon Coffee
Difficulty: ★★★★☆
How It Tastes: Bold, rich, and slightly tangy with a salty finish—a unique but balanced flavor.
Reason for Recommendation: This is the perfect drink for coffee lovers who want to try something new and unexpected.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Brewed coffee (cooled)
◦ Lemon juice
◦ Pinch of salt
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Mix cooled coffee with lemon juice (about 1 tsp per cup of coffee) and a small pinch of salt. Stir well.
2. Pour this mixture into your ice cube tray and freeze for 6 hours.
3. Add the coffee-lemon ice cubes to fresh coffee or milk.
6) Iced Cola
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
How It Tastes: Fizzy, sweet, and chilled to perfection.
Reason for Recommendation: Cola ice cubes are a simple way to keep your soda cold without diluting it while intensifying its flavor.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Cola (any brand)
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Pour your favorite cola into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid (about 4-6 hours).
2. Add cola ice cubes to a glass of fresh cola or soda water.
7) Macha Milk Tea
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
How It Tastes: Creamy, earthy, and slightly sweet with a smooth finish.
Reason for Recommendation: Matcha ice cubes gradually infuse milk tea with a stronger matcha flavor, enhancing the drink as you sip.
How to Make:
• Materials:
◦ Matcha powder
◦ Hot water
◦ Milk
◦ Sweetener (optional)
◦ Ice cube tray
Procedure:
1. Whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth (about 1 tsp matcha to 2 oz water). Sweeten if desired.
2. Pour the matcha mixture into your ice cube tray and freeze for 6 hours.
3. Prepare milk tea by mixing brewed tea with milk. Then add the matcha ice cubes.
How to Easily Add Electrolytes to Your Drink
Want a quick, fun, and healthy way to boost your summer hydration? Say hello to electrolyte ice cubes! They're simple to make, super affordable, and packed with all the goodness your body craves after a sweaty day. Here's how to whip them up:
Take 2 cups of water and mix in the juice of 1 lemon, a tiny pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt (about 1/8 teaspoon), and 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and pop it in the freezer for 4-6 hours. Once frozen, toss these magic cubes into water, tea, or even smoothies for an instant electrolyte drink that's both refreshing and hydrating.
Why does this work so well? The salt brings sodium and essential minerals to the mix, helping your body maintain fluid balance. Lemon juice? It's loaded with potassium to keep your muscles happy and hydrated. As for the honey or maple syrup, it's not just for taste—it provides a little glucose, which helps your body absorb nutrients faster. Win-win!
That's it—easy, right? This hydrating recipe is perfect for summer workouts, lazy beach days, or your next backyard BBQ. Go ahead, give it a try, and upgrade your drink game!
Some Tips for DIY Your Own Summer Drink
Ready to craft your perfect DIY summer drink? Whether you're aiming for a healthy hydration boost or an Instagram-worthy beverage, these tips will take your homemade creations to the next level!
1. Use honey or syrup for sweetness adjustment
If you're like me and prefer to keep your drinks on the healthy side, skip the honey or syrup altogether. But if a touch of sweetness is your vibe, honey or maple syrup is a great way to balance out your drink's flavors. The key? Start small and adjust to taste—no need to go overboard!
2. Pre-make some stylish ice cubes
We've all seen those stunning, colorful drinks on Instagram, complete with eye-catching ice cubes. While they look super fancy, creating them at home is easier than you think! Freeze fruits, edible flowers, or herbs inside your ice cubes to instantly elevate your drink's aesthetic. Bonus tip: match your ice cube shape to your cup! For Stanley tumblers or similar, try using an ice cube tray for Stanley cups—tailored ice cubes will not only fit perfectly but also earn you serious likes on social media. Even plain water with these beauties will feel like a luxury!
Spacial Gift for Tumbler Holders
3. Choose seasonal fruits for your drink
Want your drink to taste as good as it looks? Always go for fresh, in-season fruits. Not only are they more flavorful and nutrient-packed, but they're also often more affordable and eco-friendly. Here's a quick guide to seasonal fruits in the U.S.:
• Spring: Strawberries, cherries, apricots
• Summer: Watermelon, peaches, blueberries, pineapple
• Fall: Apples, pears, cranberries, figs
• Winter: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes
Using seasonal fruits is a game-changer—it boosts flavor, supports local growers, and makes your drink feel extra special. Plus, nothing beats the refreshing taste of a perfectly ripe peach or the tangy kick of fresh citrus!
Make Your Summer Drink and Enjoy the Moment
Who said homemade drinks are just for sipping? They're also a great way to connect with friends and show off your skills! Imagine bringing your self-made mocha latte or vibrant fruit smoothie to a summer party—it instantly sparks conversations and could even become the highlight of the event. Drinks you make yourself aren't just fun; they're totally customizable, too. Whether you like them less sweet, extra creamy, or packed with unique toppings, you've got the freedom to create exactly what suits your taste.
Feeling hungry? Whip up a refreshing fruit smoothie loaded with seasonal goodies. Overheating after a sweaty day? Add some electrolyte ice cubes for instant cooling. Just finished a workout? Toss in a scoop of protein powder for a post-exercise boost. The beauty of these DIY beverages is that they adapt to your mood, needs, and cravings. Once you master the art of drink-making, you'll have total drink freedom—no more settling for store-bought options that don't hit the spot!
And hey, don't keep all the fun to yourself—share your creations! Snap a photo of your summer drink masterpiece, record a quick video of the process, or simply share your tips and experience with us. We'd love to see how your homemade drinks turn out!