The Unexpected Liquid That Instantly Makes Batch Cocktails Better

You know what can liven up a party more than a super-sized platter of sliders? Batched cocktails — any kind will do. As long as you don't settle for bland pitcher cocktails, you're guaranteed to turn a party wild. But try and have a taste of a pre-batched cocktail, and you'll likely keel over from the strength. Unlike individually-made cocktails, batched cocktails don't benefit from the natural dilution of ice that happens when you shake or stir them, making them taste harsh and rather unbalanced. A bartender-approved trick is to add plain water to mimic the dilution. But why use plain water when coconut water can do exactly the same thing, and also add a nice hint of fruitiness to the drink?

Let's say you're making a batch of Negronis for the party and have gone through all the usual steps, such as multiplying the ingredients to cover all your anticipated servings and mixing them together. When it's time to dilute, top about 20% to 25% of the cocktail's volume with coconut water (so about 3 cups of coconut water if you're making a gallon of cocktail). Serve those up, and we promise your guests will love this trick.

If you turn out to really like the fruitiness that coconut water brings, the good news is that there's no shortage of batchable recipes that can make good use of it. The fruitiness is a natural fit for just about every tropical-themed cocktail. Mix a classic batch of margarita, then top with coconut water to create a big batch of Coconut Water Margaritas that is both super hydrating and enjoyable. Or, apply this trick to Piña Coladas, Mojitos (to make them Coconut Mojitos), and even more colorful, fun recipes like Blue Hawaiis.

It also works in cocktails that you probably have never thought would make a good pair with coconut water. The prime example is an Alchemystique, which is a mix of whiskey and Lucano amaro, and a few ounces of coconut water added. 

This is your cue to put a carton of coconut water (preferably from one of these top brands) in your shopping cart the next time you're at the grocery store. Your next party won't be the same, and neither will your home bar.