Most, if not all, of my friends have had this Watermelon Cooler at one summer party or another. It happens (it has to!) every summer and for good reason. This is one of the most refreshing and easy to drink coolers out there. You don’t need very much sugar and you can make it as a mocktail or a cocktail.
Another huge plus is that you can make the watermelon juice in advance and freeze it. Just defrost the day before you want to make the cooler.
Truth be told, up until this year, I always made this as a cocktail and spiked it with Citron Vodka (usually Absolut Citron or Grey Goose Le Citron).
This year, I intentionally reworked the recipe to be a mocktail so my son (who loves watermelon with all of his being) and those who don’t drink could enjoy it as well.
If you are one that does drink, I include variations to spike it with Vodka below in the notes. Enjoy!
NOTES:
- If you want to make this alcoholic based on single servings, just make the recipe as listed and set out a bottle of chilled Citron Vodka when serving. Add 1.5 ounces of Citron Vodka to a tumbler of ice and fill with cooler.
- If you want to make the whole batch alcoholic and serve it punch-style, add 12 ounces of Citron Vodka when you add the watermelon juice. Continue with the recipe. Once ready to serve, set the club soda on the side instead of adding to the whole batch and top off each glass as you serve it.
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Watermelon Cooler. The ultimate summer drink. Make it a Mocktail or a Cocktail.
- 3 tablespoons coconut palm sugar
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 2 medium lemons
- 6 cups watermelon juice see NOTES
- 5 to 6 sprigs mint plus more for serving
- 2 cups club soda
- ice and lemon slices for serving
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You can make watermelon juice in a blender, high-speed blender or food processor. Just cube the watermelon into 1" cubes and process in batches until liquefied. Note that if you do use a food processor or standard blender, you may want to strain the watermelon juice through a sieve.
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In a pitcher or large measuring cup, combine coconut palm sugar with boiling hot water until dissolved. Add lemon juice and stir. Allow to cool for a couple minutes.
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Add watermelon juice (and vodka if using) along with fresh mint. Stir to combine, cover and refrigerate 8 to 24 hours.
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Add club soda. Serve immediately over ice with a fresh sprig of mint and slice of lemon. Enjoy!
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Can we you unflavored vodka or does it completely change the flavor? Thanks!
Use **
You can!
More summer inspiration!! With temperatures soaring this week a watermelon cocktail will be perfect. Thanks, Alyssa!
My youngest son loves watermelon coolers! Love your addition of club soda for a little fizz!
Thanks for the tip on freezing the watermelon juice in advance, will be doing that when local watermelons are available.
I hope you love it Norma!
I am going to serve the watermelon cocktail up with and without alcohol for my daughters mid afternoon shower.
Any suggestions as to what type of light hor’d’orves would compliment this lovely drink idea?
Too funny! I just suggested this as a shower drink to another commenter. That is perfect JoAnn! I would be happy to give you some suggestions – What is the theme of the shower or what type of food does the bride enjoy most?
Too funny! I just suggested this as a shower drink to another commenter. That is perfect JoAnn! I would be happy to give you some suggestions – What is the theme of the shower or what type of food does the bride enjoy most?
This sounds crazy refreshing! I see it being my summer go-to.
It’s easy to over consume Joanne! It also makes a perfect shower drink (hint hint) 😉
I need to get me some watermelon, this looks the business! And yes, cocktail for me. It isn’t hot yet but tomorrow is supposed to be in the mid 70s – woo hop
It’s really good spiked Kellie!
It’s really good spiked Kellie!
It’s been extremely hot here in San Francisco, and this sounds SO refreshing!! I love the combination of watermelon and mint. 🙂
This will hit the spot for sure – stay cool!
So excited that I have a Watermelon & Mint in my kitchen!
We just finished off the rest tonight. I need to pick up another watermelon and make more this weekend. So good!