I used to be that person who grabbed a coffee every morning from the local café and thought nothing of it. A smoothie for lunch? Sure. A fancy cocktail at the bar with friends after work? Why not? But then I looked at my bank account one day and realized I was spending a small fortune on drinks. All those $5 lattes and $12 cocktails add up so fast, and it wasn’t long before I thought, “There’s got to be a better (and cheaper) way to enjoy this.”
That’s when I decided to try making my favorite drinks at home. At first, I was a bit skeptical—could I really make a smoothie or an iced coffee that tasted as good as what I bought? But I quickly learned that with a few simple ingredients and some practice, not only could I make these drinks, but I could tweak them to be exactly how I liked them. Plus, the savings were pretty satisfying.
So, if you’re tired of throwing your money at overpriced drinks and want to keep more cash in your wallet, here are 15 drinks you can easily make at home. Whether you’re craving something sweet, caffeinated, or even a little boozy, this list has something for everyone.
1. Iced Coffee
Stop paying $5 for iced coffee when you can make it at home for a fraction of the price. Brew your favorite coffee, let it cool, and pour it over ice. Add milk or your favorite sweetener, and there you have it—your own iced coffee masterpiece.
If you want to get fancy, try cold brew. Just steep coarse coffee grounds in water overnight, strain, and enjoy. It’s smoother, less bitter, and will make you forget about those overpriced café versions.
2. Smoothies
Smoothies can be healthy, but not when they cost $8 a pop. Making them at home is cheaper and also lets you control exactly what goes in. Blend frozen fruits with yogurt, juice, or milk, and you’ll have a refreshing smoothie singing on your tastebuds.
The best part? You can tailor each smoothie to your taste. Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s something protein-packed or a fruity treat, you’ll have the control. Plus, you’ll avoid all the sneaky added sugars you find in store-bought versions.
3. Lemonade
Who doesn’t love a cold, refreshing glass of lemonade? Instead of buying the pre-made sugary stuff, make your own at home. You only need fresh lemons, water, and a little sugar to taste. It’s refreshing, easy, and way more satisfying when you make it yourself.
You can also get creative by adding herbs like mint or basil, or you could even mix in some fresh berries for a fun twist. It’s summer time in a glass without the extra cost.
4. Hot Chocolate
On a cold day, there’s nothing better than a rich cup of hot chocolate. You can easily make it at home by heating some milk, stirring in a rich cocoa powder, and sweetening it to your liking. Top it off with marshmallows or whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence.
For a fancier version, melt some dark chocolate directly into the milk for a creamier, more decadent experience. It’ll taste better than the pre-packaged stuff and is much cheaper, too.
5. Green Juice
Green juices are notorious for being overpriced, but making them at home is both simple and affordable. Blend spinach, cucumber, apple, and a squeeze of lemon juice, and you’ve got yourself a nutrient-packed green juice that doesn’t break the bank.
The great thing about making it yourself is that you can mix and match ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. It’s a delicious way to sneak in extra veggies.
6. Sangria
Who doesn’t love a good sangria? It’s the perfect party drink and so easy to make at home. Just grab an affordable bottle of wine, add your favorite fruits, like oranges, berries, or apples, and top it with some soda water or juice.
Let it sit in a big jug in the fridge for a few hours to let the fruity flavors meld together, and you’ve got a budget-friendly sangria that rivals anything you’d find at a restaurant.
7. Chai Latte
Craving a chai latte but not the price tag that comes with it? You can make your own at home with just a few ingredients. Steep black tea with chai spices (like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves), then add warm milk and honey.
It’s cozy, comforting, and way cheaper than buying one from a café. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and spice level to suit your taste.
8. Margaritas
Margaritas are delicious but can cost a small fortune at bars. Making one at home is simple! Just mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, shake it up with some ice, and pour it into a salt-rimmed glass.
If you’re feeling adventurous, blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen margarita, or add fresh fruit like strawberries or mango for a fruity twist.
9. Milkshakes
Why pay for a milkshake when you can make one at home? All you need is ice cream and a splash of milk. Blend them together, and in just minutes, you’ve got yourself a thick, creamy milkshake that tastes just as good (if not better) as one from a diner.
For an extra treat, throw in some chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or a handful of cookies. Spray some whipped cream ontop and add sprinkles. The possibilities are endless—and you don’t have to tip the server.
10. Arnold Palmer
This half lemonade, half iced tea drink is perfect for when you want something a little different. Mix your homemade lemonade with iced tea, and you’ve got a refreshing, simple drink that’s way cheaper than buying it bottled.
Perfect for summer days or picnics, the Arnold Palmer is a classic combo that’s easy to whip up at home without any hassle.
11. Cold Brew
If you’re a cold brew fanatic, then you know how expensive it can be. But making it at home is as simple as steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, then straining the mixture.
It’s smoother than regular iced coffee and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Add a dash of milk or creamer if you fancy it a bit creamier. You’ll save money and always have your cold brew fix ready.
12. Mojitos
Who doesn’t love a good mojito? Fewer people enjoy the price tag attached to a night on the town, though. Skip the bar and make it at home! Muddle fresh mint leaves with lime juice and sugar, add rum, ice, and soda water. That’s all you need to recreate this classic cocktail.
The best part? You can control the sweetness, and if you grow your own mint, it’s basically free!
13. Hot Toddy
A hot toddy is the perfect cozy drink for cold nights and is so simple to make. Combine hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice, and you’ve got a warm, comforting cocktail that’s both delicious and affordable.
It’s great for sipping on winter evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather—and it’s a lot cheaper than buying it out.
14. Apple Cider
Homemade apple cider is a fall favorite and is surprisingly easy to make. Simmer apple juice with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a bit of orange peel for a cozy drink that’ll make your house smell absolutely magical.
You can enjoy this beverage warm or cold, and if you’re in the mood, make it a bit more fun by adding a splash of bourbon for a boozy twist.
15. Bloody Mary
Brunch doesn’t feel complete without a Bloody Mary, but buying one at a restaurant can be pricey. Make your own at home by mixing vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, hot sauce, and your favorite seasonings. Garnish with celery, olives, or even bacon.
You get full control over how spicy and savory it is, making it perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch at home.
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With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
