How To Make The Top 10 Cocktails

Cocktails have become a cornerstone of British social life, from vibrant city bars to cozy home gatherings. A recent analysis by Skiddle, a leading ticket supplier for gigs, clubs, and festivals, has revealed the UK’s most popular cocktails based on Google search data. By combining search terms like “Mojito recipe” and “how to make a Mojito” for 100 popular cocktails, the study highlights the drinks Brits are most eager to master.

Topping the list is the vibrant Aperol Spritz, followed closely by classics like the Espresso Martini and Margarita. Below, we dive into the UK’s top 10 cocktails, complete with ingredients, step-by-step recipes, and insights into why these drinks have captured the nation’s taste buds.

Cocktail culture in the UK has surged in recent years, fueled by a growing interest in mixology, social media aesthetics, and the allure of recreating bar-quality drinks at home. The bright, Instagram-worthy hues of an Aperol Spritz or the sophisticated allure of a martini glass have made these cocktails more than just drinks—they’re experiences. Whether it’s the refreshing fizz of a Mojito on a summer day or the bold, savory kick of a Bloody Mary at brunch, these cocktails reflect diverse tastes and occasions. Let’s explore each of the top 10, including precise recipes to help you shake, stir, and sip like a pro.

Top 10 Cocktails

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#1 Aperol Spritz

Average Monthly Search Volume: 126,028
The Aperol Spritz, an Italian classic, has claimed the crown as the UK’s favorite cocktail, with over 4,000 daily searches. Its vibrant orange hue, effervescent fizz, and bittersweet flavor make it a go-to for sunny afternoons and lively gatherings. Originating in Veneto, Italy, this aperitivo is synonymous with relaxed sophistication.

Ingredients:

• 90ml Prosecco
• 60ml Aperol
• 30ml soda water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in 90ml Prosecco, followed by 60ml Aperol.
3. Add 30ml soda water for a refreshing fizz.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice to enhance the citrus notes.

Why It’s Popular: The Aperol Spritz’s light, bittersweet profile and striking color make it a social media darling and a versatile drink for any occasion, from brunches to garden parties.

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#2 Espresso Martini

Average Monthly Search Volume: 114,577
Born in London in the 1980s, the Espresso Martini is a sophisticated blend of coffee and vodka, offering a caffeinated kick with a velvety texture. Its enduring popularity is evident in its 114,577 monthly searches.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vodka
• 25ml coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• 25ml freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
• Ice cubes
• 3 coffee beans (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly.
2. Add 50ml vodka, 25ml coffee liqueur, and 25ml espresso to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until frothy.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with three coffee beans, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.

Why It’s Popular: The Espresso Martini’s blend of bold coffee and smooth vodka appeals to those seeking a drink that’s both indulgent and energizing, perfect for late-night socializing.

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#3 Margarita

Average Monthly Search Volume: 86,675
The Margarita, with its zesty lime and tequila backbone, secures third place with 86,675 monthly searches. This Mexican classic is a crowd-pleaser, balancing tart, sweet, and salty flavors.

Ingredients:

• 50ml tequila (blanco or reposado)
• 25ml fresh lime juice
• 20ml triple sec
• Ice cubes
• Coarse salt (for rim)
• Lime wedge (for rim and garnish)

Recipe:

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a cocktail glass, then dip the rim into coarse salt.
2. Add 50ml tequila, 25ml lime juice, and 20ml triple sec to a shaker with ice.
3. Shake well for 10–15 seconds.
4. Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice (or serve up for a smoother finish).
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Why It’s Popular: The Margarita’s bright, tangy profile and customizable salt rim make it a versatile favorite, ideal for pairing with spicy foods or enjoying solo.

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#4 Pornstar Martini

Average Monthly Search Volume: 82,063
Created in London in 2002, the Pornstar Martini is a modern classic that combines tropical passionfruit with a sparkling prosecco chaser. Its 82,063 monthly searches reflect its bold, playful appeal.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vanilla vodka
• 25ml passionfruit liqueur (e.g., Passoã)
• 15ml fresh lime juice
• Pulp of ½ passionfruit (or 15ml passionfruit purée)
• Ice cubes
• 50ml Prosecco (served on the side)

Recipe:

1. Scoop the pulp from half a passionfruit into a cocktail shaker (or add 15ml passionfruit purée).
2. Add 50ml vanilla vodka, 25ml passionfruit liqueur, 15ml lime juice, and ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Serve with a shot of Prosecco on the side, traditionally sipped alternately.

Why It’s Popular: The Pornstar Martini’s exotic flavors and glamorous presentation, paired with its prosecco sidecar, make it a fun, indulgent choice for nights out.

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#5 Mojito

Average Monthly Search Volume: 50,742
The Mojito, a Cuban staple, ranks fifth with 50,742 monthly searches. Its refreshing mix of mint, lime, and rum makes it a summer favorite.

Ingredients:

• 50ml white rum
• 25ml fresh lime juice
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves
• Soda water
• Crushed ice
• Mint sprig (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Add 8–10 mint leaves and 2 tsp sugar to a highball glass.
2. Muddle gently with a muddler or the end of a rolling pin to release the mint’s oils.
3. Add 25ml lime juice and 50ml white rum, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and top with soda water.
5. Stir gently and garnish with a mint sprig.

Why It’s Popular: The Mojito’s crisp, minty freshness and customizable sweetness make it a go-to for warm weather and beachy vibes.

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#6 Bloody Mary

Average Monthly Search Volume: 49,288
The savory Bloody Mary, with 49,288 monthly searches, is a brunch favorite known for its bold, spicy profile and endless customization options.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vodka
• 150ml tomato juice
• 10ml fresh lemon juice
• 2–3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 1–2 dashes Tabasco sauce
• Pinch of celery salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• Ice cubes
• Celery stick (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Add 50ml vodka, 150ml tomato juice, and 10ml lemon juice.
3. Season with 2–3 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 1–2 dashes Tabasco, a pinch of celery salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir gently until well combined.
5. Garnish with a celery stick for crunch and contrast.

Why It’s Popular: The Bloody Mary’s savory, spicy kick and versatility (think garnishes like pickles or shrimp) make it a brunch staple and hangover cure.

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#7 Piña Colada

Average Monthly Search Volume: 46,040
The tropical Piña Colada, hailing from Puerto Rico, brings holiday vibes with 46,040 monthly searches. Its creamy, pineapple-coconut blend is pure escapism.

Ingredients:

• 50ml light rum (e.g., Malibu for extra coconut flavor)
• 50ml s
• 100ml pineapple juice
• Ice cubes
• Pineapple slice or cherry (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Add 50ml light rum, 50ml coconut cream, and 100ml pineapple juice to a blender with a handful of ice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a chilled hurricane or highball glass.
4. Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry for a tropical touch.

Why It’s Popular: The Piña Colada’s sweet, creamy profile and beachy aesthetic make it a nostalgic favorite for sunny days or winter escapes.

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#8 Cosmopolitan

Average Monthly Search Volume: 46,028
The Cosmopolitan, immortalized by Sex and the City, is eighth with 46,028 monthly searches. Its tart, vibrant flavor is effortlessly chic.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vodka
• 25ml triple sec
• 25ml cranberry juice
• 10ml fresh lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Lime zest twist (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Add 50ml vodka, 25ml triple sec, 25ml cranberry juice, and 10ml lime juice to a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well for 10–15 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a twist of lime zest for elegance.

Why It’s Popular: The Cosmopolitan’s bright pink hue and balanced tart-sweet flavor make it a stylish choice for cosmopolitan nights out.

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#9 Sex on the Beach

Average Monthly Search Volume: 44,665
This fruity, vibrant cocktail, with 44,665 monthly searches, evokes summer vibes with its bold colors and sweet profile.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vodka
• 25ml peach schnapps
• 50ml orange juice
• 50ml cranberry juice
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice or cherry (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in 50ml vodka and 25ml peach schnapps.
3. Top with 50ml orange juice and 50ml cranberry juice.
4. Stir gently to create a gradient effect.
5. Garnish with an orange slice or cherry.

Why It’s Popular: Its fun name, bright colors, and easy-drinking sweetness make Sex on the Beach a party favorite.

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#10 Dry Martini

Average Monthly Search Volume: 42,886
The timeless Dry Martini rounds out the list with 42,886 monthly searches. This elegant cocktail is a symbol of refined simplicity.

Ingredients:

• 75ml gin (or vodka for a variation)
• 15ml dry vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or green olive (for garnish)

Recipe:

1. Add 75ml gin and 15ml dry vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir gently for 20–30 seconds (or shake for a “shaken, not stirred” version).
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or one to three green olives.

Why It’s Popular: The Dry Martini’s crisp, clean flavors and iconic presentation make it a timeless choice for sophisticated sippers.

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The Cocktail Craze in the UK

The diversity of the UK’s top 10 cocktails reflects a vibrant drinking culture, blending classic elegance with modern flair. From the sunny Aperol Spritz to the suave Dry Martini, these drinks cater to every mood and occasion. The surge in Google searches for cocktail recipes suggests Brits are not only enjoying these drinks at bars but are also embracing home mixology. Whether you’re shaking up an Espresso Martini for a dinner party or blending a Piña Colada for a tropical escape, these recipes offer a taste of the UK’s cocktail obsession. So, grab your shaker, stock your bar, and toast to the art of the cocktail!