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31 Best Birthday Cocktails To Get The Party Started!

Quick Answer: What Are The Best Birthday Cocktails?

Birthday cocktails are a great way to celebrate the special day. They can be customized to the guest’s taste and mood and are perfect for a party. They’re also a fun way to share with friends and family. The perfect drink to serve on a birthday is a fruity cocktail with a light and refreshing taste. The best birthday cocktails are made with fresh fruit, juice, and soda

We’ve all been there. The big day is coming up. You haven’t planned anything with a well-thought-out list of some of our fav birthday cocktails and you’re starting to feel a little stressed. 

Your birthday is that time of year when you celebrate you, and although there is often pressure to plan something extravagant, the stress shouldn’t be put solely on your shoulders. It’s your day, after all.

As kids, the most important aspect of planning our parties was, without question, the treat bags. That’s exactly why we’re here to alleviate some of that worry and this was the last impression we left with our friends (our priorities may have been a little off back then).

Cake, naturally, also held great importance. Should we go with a classic vanilla with chocolate icing or spice things up with a rainbow bit cake in the shape of a Barbie castle?

As adults, cake is definitely still held in high regard, however, as opposed to when we were children, our options have increased significantly. Are you thinking what we’re thinking?

That’s right. Dessert cocktails. Because who needs to turn the oven on or place an order at a bakery when you can have sugar and booze all in one tiny, adorable glass?

If you’re currently thinking, “sweets and alcohol are an absolute no-go for me,” don’t worry because, with this list of birthday cocktails, we not only have sugar cookie-inspired drinks but also a few recipes for those of us who prefer something more subtle and classic such as Sangria. 

Get ready because you’re in for a treat!

Quick Table: Best Birthday Cocktails

RecipesCalories Per ServingPreparation Time
Sprinkle Birthday Caken/a5 Min 
Birthday Cake Cocktail198 5 Min 
Rock Candy Cocktail n/a10 Min 
Cotton Candy Champagnen/a2 Min 
French 75 Cocktailn/a5 Min 
Pretty Pink Gin And Tonic134 5 Min 
Grapefruit Mimosan/a5 Min 
Funfetti Birthday Cake Milkshaken/a4 Min 
Pink Panties Cocktailn/a10 min 
Pink Starburst Shots And Cocktail 1115 Min 
Summer Coquito n/a10 Min 
Shark Attack Punch Cocktail n/a2 Min 
Blushing Gin Lemonaden/a2 Min 
Unicorn Martinin/a5 Min 
Sex On My Birthdayn/a5 Min 
Tiffany Mimosas 156 5 Min 
Hard Apple Cider Cocktail 409 5 Min 
Chocolate Cake Shot 653 5 Min 
Blue Lagoon n/a5 Min 
Shirley Temple Party Punch 1455 Min 
Peach Rosé Sangria 186 10 Min 
Orange Sherbet Champagne Float 113 5 Min 
Sugar Cookie Shooters n/a5 Min 
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot 80 5 Min 
Chai Espresso Martini 219 5 Min 
Chocolate Raspberry Martini413 5 Min 
Snickers Cocktail 811 5 Min 
Skinny Spicy Margarita 204 10 Min 
Campfire S’mores Hot Chocolate Cocktailn/a10 Min 
Salted Caramel Mudslide n/a5 Min 
Cupcake Pudding Shootersn/an/a

1. Sprinkle Birthday Drink 

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If you’re a person who isn’t too keen on cake (yes, people like this do exist), then this Sprinkle Birthday beverage is a great alternative! 

If the stunning pink hue and adorable sprinkle rim aren’t enough to convince you to add this cocktail to your birthday menu, then perhaps the simple 3-ingredient recipe will.

That’s right. To achieve this refreshing and cheerful drink, all you’ll need is pink lemonade, rum and sprinkles. 

Cheers to that!

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Total Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

2. Birthday Cake Cocktail 

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While the previous recipe had the appearance of a cake, this cocktail not only looks like one but tastes like one too!

If vanilla is your go-to flavor, then you’ll love this cocktail because, with both birthday cake vodka and vanilla liqueur, this cocktail is a vanilla lover’s paradise. 

Don’t forget to add the iconic sprinkle rim to really make things festive!

Calories Per Serving: 198

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

3. Rock Candy Cocktail 

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Okay, this is officially our petition to make candy cocktails a thing on every birthday. 

Aside from the mesmerizing, vibrant hues of this drink, the Rock Candy Cocktail makes the perfect addition to your celebration for several reasons. 

Despite it looking like it might rot your teeth out, the mix in this blend is actually just a vodka soda. The color stems from the rock candy. 

So, if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth but still want a drink that will impress your guests, we’d definitely be going with this one!

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

4. Cotton Candy Champagne 

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If you really want to up the presentation factor, this Cotton Candy Champagne will definitely have your friends “oohing and aahing”!

Made with pink champagne and candy floss, this drink not only tastes delicious, it’s also super simple to make and would be perfect for a slumber party with your girlfriends! 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 2 Minutes 

5. French 75 Cocktail 

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Any good party has a bottle (or two) of champagne, but if you want to change things up a bit this year, mixing a little bubbly into an iconic cocktail is always a fabulous idea!

This French 75 recipe incorporates champagne, gin, lemon juice and a simple syrup. It’s cute, classic and just what you need to get you into the celebratory mood!

Not to mention, it would go perfectly with a picnic-themed party. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

6. Pretty Pink Gin & Tonic

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Are you simply obsessed with all things femme and dainty? Then we have just the thing for you!

Put on your matching prairie skirt and crochet top because if this doesn’t say cottagecore, we don’t know what does. 

Serve this lemon and gin blend with a classic cake and berries for the full aesthetic! 

Calories Per Serving: 134

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

7. Grapefruit Mimosa

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With freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and dry sparkling white wine, this cocktail is more on the tart side. If you prefer something a little sweeter, we highly recommend going for a prosecco as the fruity flavors will help balance out the tartness of the grapefruit. 

If you’re a spring baby, then this Grapefruit Mimosa might just be what you need to elevate your brunch party. 

This cocktail is not only super refreshing, but it makes such a statement you won’t even have to worry about going crazy with the décor. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

8. Funfetti Birthday Cake Milkshake 

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There’s only one thing that can make a milkshake better than it already is and that’s boosting it with a little booze!

What’s great about this recipe is that you can customize it to fit your birthday cake preferences. Simple mix together vanilla ice cream, cake vodka and a cake mix of your choice and you’re done!

Now, to really bring this drink to the next level, get creative with the toppings. Add some sprinkles and whipped cream, for example. Or, if you really want to go crazy, why not add an entire cupcake?

It’s your day, so there’s no judgment. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 4 Minutes 

9. Pink Panties Cocktail 

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For a more tropical milkshake, this Pink Panties Cocktail is perfect. 

Summer birthdays can sometimes be a drag because everyone tends to be busy and traveling. 

One advantage, however, to celebrating your day during this time of year is the delicious flavors that come with warmer weather!

This drink, for example, features all of the best summer ingredients, including pink lemonade, peaches, strawberries, coconut and vanilla ice cream. 

Serve this cocktail at your next birthday bash and bring the vacay straight to you and your friends!

Calories Per Serving: N/A 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

10. Pink Starburst Shot And Cocktail 

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If you love sugary drinks and Starbursts happen to be one of your favorite treats, you’re going to be super excited about this one. 

The Pink Starburst Shot And Cocktail is exactly what it sounds like: a blend of ingredients (vanilla vodka, watermelon puckers and sweet and sour mix, to be exact) that come together to make the most epic Starburst-inspired flavors!

This drink can be consumed as either a shot or cocktail on ice and is the perfect beverage to get the party started. 

Calories Per Serving: 111

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

RELATED: 15 Delicious Birthday Cake Shot Recipes

11. Summer Coquito

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If you’ve always wanted to travel to the Tropics but have never been able to, this Summer Coquito is the best gift you can give yourself. 

If you’re unfamiliar with Coquitos, essentially, they are a coconut milk and rum drink enjoyed by Puerto Ricans during Christmas. 

This adaptation uses a blend of ingredients to create a delicious copycat Coquito and finishes it off with the addition of homemade coconut popsicles. 

The perfect dessert cocktail to add to your special day. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

12. Shark Attack Punch Cocktail 

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Yes, even when it’s your kids’ birthdays, having an adult drink to get the parents through all of the chaos is a must (if you’re a mom or dad, you know what we’re talking about). 

This Shark Attack Punch is ideal not only because it would be a great addition to an “Under The Sea”-themed party but also because it can be easily altered into an adult-friendly variation. 

Simply add a bit of vodka to your Gatorade and sprite mix and you’ll not only make the kids happy, but the grownups too! (And yes, even if they don’t admit it, they will also love the shark gummies). 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 2 Minutes 

13. Blushing Gin Lemonade

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When the heat hits, you can never go wrong with serving fresh lemonade at your festivities. 

This variation is particularly special and features gin as well as elderflower liqueur to give the cocktail a beautiful floral finish. 

It’s a stunning pinkish-orange shade that tastes as good as it looks and makes a whole jug, so you’ll be sure to have enough for everyone. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 2 Minutes 

14. Unicorn Martini 

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With such an elaborate and colorful palette of ingredients, it’s only fitting for this Unicorn Martini to be reserved for only the greatest of celebrations. I mean, who wouldn’t want to cheers to making it another year in this crazy life with rum chata, mango rum and all of the sweet treats you can get your hands on?

Plus, it only takes a few short minutes to make, so you can spend less time shaking and more time sipping!

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

15. Sex On My Birthday 

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For the sake of keeping this blog PG, we aren’t going to get into the name aspect of this drink too much (although it does certainly make you want to try it). 

All we will say is that with a list of ingredients like this, you’ll be in utter birthday bliss. 

Cake and vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, vanilla ice cream and an actual ice cream sandwich as garnish? 

Sorry husband, I will no longer be needing your services because you’ve officially been replaced! 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

16. Tiffany Mimosas

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Bring an element of luxury to your next birthday brunch party with these super easy Tiffany-inspired Mimosas.

Blue Curacao, lemonade, honey and champagne make up the basis for this cocktail, but the real star of the show is the sugar-rimmed glasses. 

Sugar crystals provide you with the resemblance of diamonds without the cost. Plus, they make any drink look ultra lavish.

Let’s pop some bottles!

Calories Per Serving: 156

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes  

17. Hard Apple Cider Cocktail

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Look out fall babies, because this one’s for you! 

There’s nothing more iconic during the autumn season than apple and cinnamon and if it can be made into a cocktail? Even better!

The main alcoholic beverage in this drink is rye as it balances beautifully when blended with apple cider, maple syrup and lemon juice

This beverage would be a great addition to an autumn birthday brunch. 

Calories Per Serving: 409

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes  

18. Chocolate Cake Shot 

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Follow up on a delicious piece of cake with a smooth and chocolatey shot!

That’s right. If you’re a die-hard chocolate fan, you are going to love this recipe. 

The decadent and rich chocolate flavor in this shot comes from Frangelico Liqueur. Frangelico predominantly tastes like hazelnut (think Nutella). 

Add in some vanilla vodka and a touch of lemon juice and you’ve got the perfect dessert for your festivities! 

Calories Per Serving: 653

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

19. Blue Lagoon 

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Quench your thirst with this vibrant and refreshing Blue Lagoon Cocktail and feel yourself slowly drift away into cool, tropical waters. 

With only three ingredients, vodka, lemonade and blue Curacao, this recipe is not only super simple, but it’s also the perfect blend of sweet and zesty. 

Get your pool noodles and floaties ready because with this drink, you have to have a pool party! 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

20. Shirley Temple Party Punch

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If you’re looking for a cocktail that will serve a large crowd, opting for a party punch is always a safe choice- especially when it’s a classic drink such as the iconic Shirley Temple. 

Shirley Temple’s have been around for decades and provide any gathering with a sweet and fruity punch (get it). 

It’s a great mix that tastes delicious (I mean, who doesn’t love grenadine?), is super easy to make and will be sure to be a crowd pleaser. 

Calories Per Serving: 145

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

RELATED: 45 Birthday Dinner Ideas | Recipes For Perfect Birthday Celebration

21. Peach Rosé Sangria 

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Get cocktail-ready for your soirée with this deliciously fruity and refreshing Peach Rosé Sangria!

Sangria is a must at any summer get-together and well, if it’s your birthday, what an even better reason to bring out a whole pitcher!

This particular Sangria features rosé wine as well as peach and raspberry flavors for a stunning glass of sparkling fruity goodness. 

Calories Per Serving: 186

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

22. Orange Sherbet Champagne Float 

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Give your birthday bash a bubbly boost (say that ten times fast) with these irresistible Orange Sherbet Champagne floats. 

With champagne and orange sherbet as the key ingredients, this cocktail is extra fizzy and extra fun!

This recipe can be completed in under two minutes and will provide your guests with both a drink and a dessert! 

Calories Per Serving: 113

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

23. Sugar Cookie Shooters 

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Speaking of desserts, these Sugar Cookie Shooters are literally what birthday dreams are made of. 

Vanilla and cake vodka as well as a white chocolate liqueur and whipped cream make up the actual shot, while strawberry icing, wafers, sprinkles and additional whipped cream act as the garnish. 

These shots are ultra sweet, simple and will make you nostalgic for one of your favorite childhood snacks. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 minutes 

24. Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot 

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If you can’t make an actual Pineapple Upside Cake for your birthday, this shot is definitely the next best thing!

Made with only three ingredients, cake vodka, pineapple juice and grenadine, this recipe is not only super tasty but also super simple. 

Who needs to turn on the oven when you’ve got this?

Calories Per Serving: 80

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

25. Chai Espresso Martini

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Does your birthday take place during the holiday season? Then we have just the thing for you!

There’s nothing like a good caffeinated beverage when the weather starts to get cooler and this cocktail offers you a taste of not only chai tea but also espresso. 

With added hints of vanilla, honey, coconut, Kahlua and vodka, this drink is super flavorful and creamy and would even be adored by the non-coffee drinkers of the crowd. 

Calories Per Serving: 219

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

26. Chocolate Raspberry Martini

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Sometimes sticking to the basics is best and if this recipe doesn’t reinforce that, I don’t know what does. 

Chocolate and fruit are like peanut butter and jelly- they’re a classic duo that just make sense. They’re also super sensual and make for the perfect pairing in a cocktail recipe for you and your partner to enjoy on your special day. 

To achieve this decadent dessert cocktail, simply mix together chocolate liqueur, raspberry liqueur and vodka and you’re done! 

Basic and boozy.

Calories Per Serving: 413

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

27. Snickers Cocktail 

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Imagine a Snickers chocolate bar in liquid form- we know, it almost seems too good to be true, but with this Snickers-inspired cocktail, that’s exactly what you get!

Snickers are full of nutty, chocolatey caramel goodness. If you’re craving one of these irresistibly sweet and smooth treats on your birthday, but aren’t a cake person, let us dive into the contents of the delicious, drinkable alternative. 

Chocolate syrup, vanilla vodka, Irish cream liqueur, white chocolate liqueur, amaretto, and heavy cream- that’s exactly what you get in each sip of this decadent adult-friendly Snickers beverage. 

True bliss in a cup. 

Calories Per Serving: 811

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

28. Skinny Spicy Margarita 

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If you’re more of a savory person and would take a Spicy Margarita over a dessert cocktail any day, you’re in luck.

Skinny Spicy Margaritas are perfect celebratory cocktails that will not only bring an element of fire to your fiesta but will also provide you with a refreshing blend for those hotter summer days. 

With all of the fan favorites, including tequila, limes, agave nectar and jalapenos, these Spicy Margs have it all and would be the perfect complement to a taco dinner. 

And while you’re at it, why not throw in a festive pinata as well?

Calories Per Serving: 204

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

29. Campfire S’mores Hot Chocolate Cocktail 

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If big crowds aren’t your thing and you prefer more intimate gatherings, having a campfire with a few close friends is a great way to spend your birthday. 

Campfires aren’t complete without the complimentary food and feel-good songs, but what about beverages?

Elevate your campfire fiesta with a delicious S’mores Hot Chocolate cocktail! They’re rich, cozy and full of all of your favorite campfire flavors (think whiskey, chocolate pudding and marshmallow fluff).

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 minutes 

30. Salted Caramel Mudslide 

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For another boozy milkshake recipe that will have your party guests raving the whole night, this Salted Caramel Mudslide is a must. 

Dessert cocktails are always a great idea at birthdays, especially when they’re as creamy and decadent as this one. I mean, Bailey’s and Kahlua? Now that’s a match made in heaven. 

Calories Per Serving: 514

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

31. Cupcake Pudding Shooters 

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For the finale, we wanted to show you guys a drink that would leave a lasting impression and for that, there’s nothing better than Cupcake Pudding Shooters. 

Although these require a little more time to make, the resulting chocolate vodka shots are simply adorable. 

These tiny bundles of joy are as fun to eat as they are delicious and are sure to be a hit at your party.

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Drinks Are Best For Birthdays?

This really depends on your taste, however, popular cocktails such as Mimosas and Margaritas are often preferable as they are well known and liked by the majority of people.

Dessert cocktails that can be served with or instead of cake also work well. Cocktails with cake-flavored alcohol are another great birthday go-to. 

What Cocktail Should I Serve At A Large Gathering?

If your guest list is extensive, opting for a cocktail recipe that yields a large amount of servings, such as a punch or sangria, is optimal. Just look for the words “pitcher” or “jug” and you’re good to go!

What Are The Best Dessert Cocktails?

With so many great dessert cocktails recipes out there, it’s hard to choose, but here is a list of our top favorites:

  • Birthday Cake Cocktail
  • Cotton Candy Champagne
  • Chocolate Raspberry Martini
  • Snickers Cocktail 
  • Salted Caramel Mudslide
  • Cupcake Pudding Shooters 

31 Best Birthday Cocktails To Get The Party Started!

Your birthday is that time of year when you celebrate you, and although there is often pressure to plan something extravagant, the stress shouldn’t be put solely on your shoulders

Directions

  • Pick a recipe from the list above
  • Collect the ingredients and cook the food
  • Collect the ingredients and cook the food
  • Enjoy – don’t forget to leave a review

Recipe Video

Jess Smith
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