Even those of us who are not morning people know that the early bird gets the best parking spot at the tailgate. If you’re heading out early, you’ll definitely want to pack some breakfast tailgate food to power you until the game. Whether you’re grilling up some breakfast sausage or flipping pancakes on the griddle nothing pairs better with breakfast tailgate food than a tasty cocktail. Here are our breakfast cocktails that are perfect for kicking off your early tailgate party.
Rev Your Engines With Coffee Cocktails
Some of us simply cannot function in the mornings until we have our coffee. That is why it is a classic ingredient for many of popular breakfast cocktails like Irish Coffee, White Russians, and Espresso Martinis. Mix it up with these coffee cocktails.
1. Prairie Buzz
If you are looking for a drink to wake you up, this cocktail is not called the Prairie Buzz for nothing. Made with bourbon, rye, corn whiskey, sherry, and cold brew, this strong drink will start your engines and get your day started on the right foot. Like most of our coffee cocktails, you can batch this ahead of time and bring it to the game. You’ll just need some ice to serve it over.
2. Oaxacan Tail Cocktail
Invented in Santa Monica at Esters Wine Shop & Bar, the Oaxacan Tail is a Mexican-inspired cocktail. Featuring tequila and mezcal, this agave-based cocktail also gets its rich flavor from amaro, cold-brew coffee, and mole bitters. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast.
3. Dark And Stormy Coffee
If you love Dark and Stormies, you’ll love this twist. Made with freshly brewed espresso, this version will pep you up. The best part is it tastes delicious!
4. Cold Brew Bourbon Cocktail
Mixing flavors of maple, orange, and coffee, this cocktail is built for breakfast. Served on ice with a little heavy cream, it’s a wonderful companion to sweet desserts like pancakes and waffles. Here’s a step-by-step recipe if you’d like to make your cold brew from scratch.
5. Orange Spiced Espresso Tonic
Believe it or not, cold brew, orange juice, and tonic make one of the most refreshing drinks out there. This cocktail is surprisingly delicious, and you can add any type of spirit that you like to it. Gin goes especially well since gin and tonics are so delicious. Sprinkle in a little cinnamon and nutmeg on top and you’ll be hooked.
Kick Off The Party With Champagne Cocktails
Something about drinking bubbly first thing in the morning that really peps you up. Champagne and sparkling wine have long been featured on the best brunch cocktail menus. If you love mimosas, champagne cocktails, and bellinis, then get ready to get your spritz on!
6. Pomegranate Mimosa
This simple cocktail packs a lot of fruity flavor. Made with just champagne, pomegranate juice, and a twist of lemon, it’s easy to serve at your tailgate. It’s also a perfect way to start the day when you’re looking to change it up from the classic mimosa.
7. Cranberry Orange Bellini
Right in time for fall football, this Italian breakfast bellini features autumnal flavors. Made with three simple ingredients, you can easily make this sparkling wine cocktail at the stadium. It’s refreshing without being overly sweet.
8. Rosemary Champagne Cocktail
Whipping up some steak and eggs as your breakfast tailgate food? This rosemary cocktail is the perfect accompaniment. Made with rosemary syrup and champagne, this tasty cocktail is also stronger than expected. It can also be easily made into a virgin cocktail.
9. Blackberry Champagne Mule
We’ve always thought a Moscow Mule made a great breakfast cocktail. This version is definitely made for breakfast. Made with blackberries, mint, a little vodka, and soda water such as club soda or seltzer, it’s a refreshingly sweet way to start your day.
Mix It Up With Something New
In our experience, tailgaters are pretty adventurous foodies. So if you’re looking to serve something a little different, these are the cocktail recipes for you.
10. Mango Mary
Bloody Mary’s sweeter sister the Mango Mary uses mango juice as the key ingredient. This delicious brunch recipe is mixed with the same flavors and spices as the classic cocktail. It’s a surprising yet delicious way to enjoy a Bloody Mary.
11. Michelada
One of the most popular beer cocktails in Mexico, Micheladas are often served for breakfast. This is a great option if you are serving breakfast burritos. Made with tomato juice, lime, and hot sauce, if you like Bloody Marys you will love Micheladas.
12. Guava Basil Daiquiri
Daiquiris are always a great drink to serve at any tailgate. Rather than using traditional flavors like lime and strawberry, this uses a beautiful blend of guava and basil. Not sure where to get guava nectar? Jumex makes one that is available at most grocery stores.
13. Habanero-Hibiscus Sour
This fun take on a Pisco Sour is sweet and spicy. Made with a habanero-hibiscus simple syrup, this cocktail will be sure to wake you up. It’s a bit complicated to make, so you might want to save it for homegating but it’s worth all the effort.
14. Cucumber Blackberry Gin Cocktail
Sometimes you just need a little sweetness to brighten your morning. This cucumber blackberry gin drink has sweetness from the fresh blended blackberries and refreshment from the cool cucumber. Add your favorite gin and you’re ready for the party!
16. Trix Cereal Ice Cream Cocktail
Ready to bring out your inner child? Your favorite childhood cereal is now an adult cocktail. Made with ice cream, vanilla vodka, and Trix, this cocktail is definitely not for kids.
Bonus Idea: Build A Bloody Mary Bar
Don’t worry Bloody Mary lovers we did not leave you out! Rather than making our favorite Bloody Mary cocktails, we love to set up a bar. That way everyone (even the kids if you keep the vodkas out of reach) can make one to their taste. It’s pretty simple to make. You just collect and prepare the ingredient and lay it out at the tailgate. Here’s a great guide for some out-of-the-box Blood Mary bar ideas like adding bacon-wrapped asparagus and smoked fish as topping options.
If you’re a team of early bird tailgaters, you don’t have to wait for everyone else to arrive to start turning up. Make some breakfast tailgate food and whip up one of these tasty cocktails.
