Cocktail Calculator
Scale cocktail recipes up or down from a single serving to any batch size.
Returns ingredient amounts in oz, ml, and cups with total alcohol content estimate.
Cocktail ratios are the proportional backbone of every classic drink. Learning the underlying ratio — not just the recipe — lets you scale for any batch size and substitute ingredients intelligently.
The standard 2:1:1 ratio (Sour family):
2 parts base spirit : 1 part sour (citrus) : 1 part sweet (syrup)
This produces the Daiquiri, Margarita, Whiskey Sour, and dozens of variations.
Batch scaling formula:
Volume per Ingredient = (Ratio Part / Total Parts) × Total Batch Volume
Worked example — Batch Margaritas for 10 people:
Serving size: 4 oz per drink. Total batch: 10 × 4 oz = 40 oz.
Ratio: 2 parts tequila : 1 part lime juice : 1 part triple sec. Total = 4 parts.
Tequila = (2/4) × 40 oz = 20 oz
Lime Juice = (1/4) × 40 oz = 10 oz
Triple Sec = (1/4) × 40 oz = 10 oz
Add 20% dilution water (accounts for ice melting during shaking): 8 oz cold water.
Classic cocktail ratios reference:
| Cocktail | Base | Modifier | Citrus | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Negroni | 1 gin | 1 vermouth | — | 1 Campari |
| Manhattan | 2 whiskey | 1 vermouth | — | Stirred |
| Old Fashioned | 2 oz spirit | dash bitters | — | Sugar cube |
| Daiquiri | 2 rum | 1 simple syrup | 1 lime | Shaken |
| Martini | 3 gin/vodka | 1 dry vermouth | — | Stirred |
Dilution factor: Shaking with ice adds approximately 20–25% dilution. Stirring adds approximately 15–20% dilution. For batch cocktails served from a pitcher, stir in 15% by volume cold water to simulate bar dilution.