Mix Up Your Weekend with Beer Cocktails for Brunch

At The Growler Guys, we’re all about expanding your palate, and brunch is no exception. The classic mimosa will always have its place at the brunch table, but we think there’s room for beer cocktails, too. Keep reading to see how the infinite varieties of craft beer can transform your mid-morning glass.

What Are the Best Craft Beer Styles for Brunch Cocktails?

The best craft beer styles for brunch cocktails include crisp Mexican lagers for savory Micheladas, citrus-forward IPAs for refreshing beermosas, and robust stouts for coffee-inspired drinks. Light-bodied wheat beers and fruited sours also pair exceptionally well with traditional breakfast flavors for a sophisticated, bubbly alternative to standard sparkling wine or spirit-based cocktails.

Why Craft Beer Belongs on the Brunch Table

Believe it or not, craft beer offers a wider range of flavor profiles than traditional cocktail mixers. From the bright acidity of a kettle sour to the chocolatey depth of a porter, beer provides a complex base that complements all the dishes on your brunch table. We’ve found that the natural carbonation in a fresh pour from our advanced tap system acts as a palate cleanser, helping you transition from spicy chilaquiles to sweet brioche French toast.

When creating beer cocktails for brunch, our team recommends starting with a beer style you already enjoy and considering how its primary notes (bitter, sweet, tart, etc.) might pair with your food. We’ve spent years helping locals in our tap houses discover these match-made-in-heaven pairings, and we’re excited to share that expertise so you can recreate the experience at home with a fresh growler fill.

Refreshing Citrus Fusions: The Rise of the Beermosa

If you typically pick up a mimosa at brunch, try replacing it with a beermosa. By swapping out champagne for a citrusy craft beer, you get a drink that’s typically lower in sugar and higher in complexity. We recommend using a hazy IPA or a Belgian witbier to craft these brunch beer cocktails. The natural orange peel and coriander notes in a witbier pair perfectly with fresh-squeezed orange juice.

If you want something with more zing, try a fruited berliner wiesse or a gose. These sour beer styles deliver a tartness that mimics citrus acidity, creating a sophisticated, dry cocktail that isn’t overly sweet. Our certified Beer Stewards suggest these for anyone who wants to stay refreshed throughout a long, relaxed morning.

Dark and Bold: Coffee Stouts and Morning Brews

Who says you have to choose between your morning coffee and your morning beer? Not us. A robust stout or porter is a natural addition to brunch, especially when it features roasted coffee or chocolate notes. Keep in mind that dark beer doesn’t always mean heavy – many stouts are incredibly smooth and pair well with maple syrup and smoked ham.

To create black and tan-inspired beer cocktails for brunch, try layering a coffee stout over a splash of cold-brew coffee and a hint of vanilla bean syrup. This makes a rich, creamy beverage that feels like a decadent treat. In our experience, it’s the perfect choice for a chilly morning when you want something that’s both comforting and celebratory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any beer for a beermosa?

Feel free to experiment, but wheat beers, citrus IPAs, and light lagers are your best bet for these brunch beer cocktails. Unless you’re going for a specific, non-traditional flavor profile, we recommend avoiding heavily bitter West Coast IPAs and very dark stouts.

How do I keep my beer fresh for cocktails?

The best way is to use a growler or crowler from a brewery or taphouse that uses advanced CO2 filling systems. Our Phssssh™ CO²TO GO! System, for example, helps keep your beer fresh and carbonated until you’re ready to mix your drinks.

Mix Up Your Beer Cocktails with The Growler Guys

No matter which beer cocktail you choose to put on your brunch table, the secret ingredient is freshness. At The Growler Guys, our state-of-the-art tap system ensures that every drop of beer you take home is foam-free and full of its intended flavor.

If you aren’t sure which IPA will work best with your grapefruit juice, just ask. Our team loves to talk shop and help you find exactly what you need to broaden your palate with beer cocktails from morning to night. Stop in for a pint, flight, or growler fill today.