Mover over store bought stuff and learn How to make Homemade Sour Mix for Cocktails. With under five household ingredients, this refreshing mixer will be the perfect addition to your bar!
Looking for cocktail recipes to pair with sour mix? Try this Sangria Margarita, Jalapeno Pineapple Margarita or Strawberry Peach Bourbon Smash!

Table of Contents
WHAT IS SOUR MIX?
Sour mix is a popular cocktail mixer that is used in various alcoholic drinks. In fact, sour mix is used mostly in margaritas, daquiris, side car, mojito, gin fizz and the list can go on!
To explain, traditional sour mix is made with equal parts lemon and lime juice (fresh) and mixed with a simple syrup that pairs perfectly with the tartness from the citrus fruits.
The mix is typically a yellow-green color and is a great addition to most cocktails!

WHAT IS SIMPLE SYRUP?
Simple syrup is a classic cocktail sweetener used in various cocktails. To clarify, simple syrup is made up of equal parts white sugar and water.
To make simple syrup, simply boil water, add sugar until dissolved and allow it to reach room temperature. That is, it!
The possibilities are endless with infusing simple syrup such as lavender, jalapeno or cinnamon. Today, learn how to make a simple, traditional simple syrup.
WHAT INGREDIENTS ARE IN HOMEMADE SOUR MIX?
As mentioned, sour mix consists of household ingredients I am certain you will have on hand. Here is what you will need:
- Lemon
- Lime
- Sugar
- Water

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE SOUR MIX
First, begin by juicing the lemons and limes. It is important to realize you can use store bought lemon and lime juice, but I urge you to take the extra five minutes to squeeze fresh juice.
PREPARE THE SIMPLE SYRUP
Next, using a medium sized pot place the water into the pot and begin to boil. Once the water begins to boil, slowly pour in the sugar and turn the heat to low.
Carefully stir the water/sugar mixture until completely dissolved. Allow the simple syrup to cool a little.
PREPARE THE SOUR MIX
In the meantime, prepare the last steps to make the sour mix! In a medium to large sized pitcher, combine the lemon and lime juice and the cooled simple syrup.
Stir until well combined and transfer to a mason jar with lid or an airtight safe container. To sum up, that is how easy it is to prepare homemade sour mix!
RECIPE VIDEO: HOW TO MAKE SOUR MIX
HOMEMADE SOUR MIX SHELF LIFE
Sour mix should be stored in an airtight container and stored properly in the refrigerator. With this in mind, the shelf life is up to two to three weeks if stored and handled properly.
When creating this recipe, I tripled the recipe and stored the additional in an ice cube tray. If the cubes are bagged in a freezer safe bag, they can last up to six months!
HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE SOUR MIX FOR COCKTAILS
As mentioned, this sour mix is so easy to prepare. After learning how to prepare this simple mixer, I am certain you will make this again and again.

With that said, it is best to purchase mason jars or airtight safe containers that can preserve the freshness of this citrus mixer!
HOW TO USE SOUR MIX
Sour mix can be used in a plethora of drinks. To explain, sour mix can be added to Long Island Iced Teas, Whisky (or any liquor) Sours, Classic Margaritas, and the list goes on. In fact, sour mix can also be used in non-alcoholic drinks as well such as lemonade, tea and punch.
You cannot go wrong with how this mix can be used. Get creative and learn how well it pairs with so many drinks!
Looking for cocktail recipes to pair with sour mix? Try this


Strawberry Peach Bourbon Smash


How To Make Homemade Sour Mix For Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 cup Lemon Juice
- 1 cup Lime Juice
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 1 cup Water
Instructions
Simple Syrup
- Using a medium sized pot place the water into the pot and begin to boil.
- Once the water begins to boil, slowly pour in the sugar and turn the heat to low.
- Carefully stir the water/sugar mixture until completely dissolved.
- Allow the simple syrup to cool a little.
Homemade Sour Mix
- Begin by juicing the lemons and limes using a juicer or strainer.
- In a medium to large sized pitcher, combine the lemon and lime juice and the cooled simple syrup.
- Stir until well combined and transfer to a mason jar with lid or an airtight safe container.
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