Did someone say “hydration with personality”? Because that’s the vibe this summer.
We’re keeping things juicy—literally—with easy homemade drink infusions that blend bold flavor, wellness perks, and serious visual aesthetics. Whether you're soaking up poolside sun or vibing through a backyard brunch, these infusions are your go-to. Bonus? They’re totally photogenic in glassware that lets the layers, colors, and fruit slices shine through.
Let’s get into it.
1. The Classic Citrus-Mint Refresher
For when it’s hot and you want to feel alive again.
You’ll need:
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½ orange, sliced
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½ lemon, sliced
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½ lime, sliced
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Handful of fresh mint
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Cold filtered water
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Ice
How to:
Toss citrus and mint into your favorite pitcher, fill with cold water, and let it chill for at least 2 hours. The longer it sits, the zestier it gets. Pour over ice and serve with a fresh mint sprig. A clear glass lets those vibrant slices do all the talking.
2. Watermelon-Rosemary Glow-Up
Hydrating? Yes. Elevated? Absolutely.
You’ll need:
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1 cup watermelon chunks
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1 small rosemary sprig
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Squeeze of lime
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Cold water or sparkling water
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Ice
How to:
Muddle watermelon lightly to release juice, then drop everything into a carafe. Let it infuse for 2–4 hours. Strain if you want it sleek, or serve it chunky—either way, it looks lush in a tall glass with rosemary dancing on top.
3. Cherry-Basil Infused Vodka (For the Cocktail Crowd)
Put this in your Friday night plans.
You’ll need:
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1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
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4–5 basil leaves
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1.5 cups vodka
How to:
Add cherries and basil to a jar. Cover with vodka and let it infuse in the fridge for 2–3 days. Strain, then pour over ice with a splash of soda and a cherry on top. That deep ruby tone? It deserves a cocktail glass, not plastic.
4. Lavender-Lemon Chill Water
Drink this and try not to exhale in peace, like you just entered a spa.
You’ll need:
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1 tsp dried culinary lavender
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½ lemon, sliced
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Cold water
How to:
Add lavender and lemon to your water and infuse overnight for a soft, calming flavor. Strain before serving if you're not into bits. Pro tip: pop in a couple edible flowers (hibiscus is our fave) if you’re feeling extra.
5. Ginger-Turmeric Citrus Punch
The wellness flex your immune system’s been waiting for.
You’ll need:
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1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
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1-inch piece of fresh turmeric, sliced
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½ orange, sliced
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Dash of black pepper (helps with turmeric absorption)
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Cold water
How to:
Combine all ingredients and let sit at least 2 hours. Slightly spicy, wildly refreshing. Serve over ice with a citrus wedge and a nod to your healthiest self.
6. Elderflower Hugo Spritz (Low-ABV Favorite)
Europe’s favorite bubbly cocktail (with a lower percentage of alcohol) is officially your backyard MVP.
You’ll need:
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2 oz elderflower syrup
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4–5 fresh mint leaves
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Juice of ½ lime
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Prosecco or sparkling water (your call)
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Ice
How to:
Muddle lime and mint in a glass. Add ice, pour in elderflower syrup and top with bubbles. Finish with a mint leaf and lemon wheel. The layered look is best appreciated in—you guessed it—clear glassware.
Tiny Tips for Peak Infusion Game
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Use glass for your drink infusions to avoid plastic aftertastes (and to let those ingredients glow).
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Chill for 2–12 hours depending on how bold you want the flavor.
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Strain, or don’t. We love the rustic fruit-in-the-glass look, especially when served in something elegant.
Go On, Infuse Joy
Whether you’re all in on fruit-infused water or vibing with infused spirits, this summer is your moment to sip something special. Play with colors, stack those slices, and make it a visual masterpiece. (Especially in glassware that does the most—JoyJolt knows what’s up.)
