The Best Cocktails

These drinks are worth planning a whole party around. Bottoms up to our tastiest shots, slushies, and spritzes. Explore even more at delish.​com/ simple-cocktails

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MAI TAI COCKTAIL

MAKES 1

5 MIN

1 oz. fresh lime juice

1 oz. light rum

3/4 oz. dry orange Curaçao, Cointreau, or triple sec

3/4 oz. orgeat syrup

Ice

1½ oz. dark rum

Mint sprig, lime wheel, and maraschino cherry, for serving

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine lime juice, light rum, Curaçao, and syrup. Fill shaker with ice, cover, and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very frosty, about 20 seconds.

2. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Slowly pour dark rum on top. Garnish with mint, lime wheel, and cherry. -BROOKE CAISON

GUMMY BEAR COCKTAIL

MAKES 1

10 MIN

1 tsp. honey

2 Tbsp. granulated sugar

Zest of 1 lemon, plus 1 wedge for glass

1 Tbsp. blueberry preserves or fruit spread (such as Bonne Maman)

1 oz. vodka

7 oz. lemon-flavored soda water

Yellow gummy bear, for serving (optional)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

A honey bear jar