Looking for drinks that start with C? This alphabetical guide is useful for quizzes, themed parties, school projects, menu planning, word games, or simply finding something different to sip.

From everyday favourites like coffee, cola and cranberry juice to more specific drinks such as cortado, caipirinha and cream soda, there are plenty of C drinks to choose from. I have included hot drinks, cold drinks, soft drinks, alcoholic options and a few budget-friendly serving ideas along the way.

Drinks That Start With C: Quick List

Here is a quick overview of popular drinks beginning with C before we look at them in more detail.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks That Start With C

If you need C drinks for a family party, packed lunch, mocktail bar or alphabet challenge, these non-alcoholic options are a good place to start.

1. Coffee

Coffee is one of the most well-known drinks beginning with C. It can be served black, with milk, with cream, sweetened, unsweetened, hot or iced. Instant coffee is usually the cheapest option for daily drinking, while ground coffee or beans can still be good value if you buy larger bags and use a cafetiere or moka pot at home.

Budget tip: make iced coffee with leftover brewed coffee, milk and ice rather than buying ready-made chilled bottles.

2. Cappuccino

A cappuccino is made with espresso, steamed milk and milk foam. It is a popular coffee shop drink, but it can be made at home without fancy equipment. Strong instant coffee or moka pot coffee, warmed milk and a small handheld milk frother will do the job nicely.

3. Cortado

A cortado is a small coffee drink made with espresso and a roughly equal amount of warm milk. It is less milky than a latte and smoother than a straight espresso. If you like strong coffee but want the edge softened, a cortado is worth trying.

4. Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for several hours, then straining it. It has a smoother taste than hot coffee poured over ice. It is handy in summer and can work out cheaper than buying iced coffees from cafes.

Food safety note: keep homemade cold brew in the fridge and use it within a few days.

5. Cola

Cola is a classic fizzy drink with a sweet, caramel-style flavour. You will find branded, supermarket own-label, diet and caffeine-free versions in most UK shops. It is often served with ice and lemon, or used as a mixer.

Money-saving tip: supermarket own-label cola is often much cheaper than the big brands, especially for parties where it will be served with food or mixed drinks.

6. Cherry Cola

Cherry cola is cola with a cherry flavour. It is available in regular and sugar-free versions, and it can also be made at home by adding a splash of cherry cordial or cherry syrup to ordinary cola.

7. Cream Soda

Cream soda is a sweet fizzy drink with a vanilla-like flavour. It is popular on its own, over ice, or poured over vanilla ice cream to make a simple ice cream float.

8. Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice is sharp, fruity and refreshing. In UK supermarkets, it is often sold as cranberry juice drink rather than pure cranberry juice, as cranberries are naturally tart. It works well on its own, with sparkling water, or in mocktails and cocktails.

9. Cranberry and Raspberry Juice

This is a sweeter twist on cranberry juice and is commonly found in cartons. It is a good option if plain cranberry tastes too sharp. Try stretching it with sparkling water to make it go further.

10. Coconut Water

Coconut water is the clear liquid from young coconuts. It has a light, slightly sweet flavour and is usually served chilled. It can be drunk on its own or added to smoothies.

11. Coconut Milk Drink

Do not confuse tinned coconut milk used for cooking with coconut milk drink sold in cartons. Coconut milk drink is a dairy-free alternative often used on cereal, in smoothies, or in tea and coffee. Choose unsweetened versions if you prefer less sugar.

12. Chai

Chai is a spiced tea, usually made with black tea, milk, sugar and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves. You can buy chai tea bags, loose chai blends or powdered chai mixes, although homemade versions are often cheaper and less sweet.

13. Chai Latte

A chai latte is a milky version of chai, often sold in coffee shops. At home, heat milk with a chai tea bag or spiced tea concentrate, then sweeten to taste. It is warming, comforting and easy to customise.

14. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion made from chamomile flowers. It has a gentle floral flavour and is often enjoyed in the evening. Supermarket own-brand chamomile tea bags are usually inexpensive.

15. Cinnamon Tea

Cinnamon tea is a warming drink made by infusing cinnamon sticks or cinnamon-flavoured tea bags in hot water. It can be served plain, with honey, or with lemon. A single cinnamon stick can often flavour more than one cup.

16. Chocolate Milk

Chocolate milk is a sweet milk-based drink flavoured with cocoa or chocolate syrup. It can be bought ready-made, but it is usually cheaper to make at home using milk and cocoa powder or drinking chocolate.

17. Cocoa

Cocoa is a hot chocolate-style drink made with cocoa powder, milk or water, and sugar if needed. It tends to taste richer and less sweet than instant hot chocolate mixes, depending on how you make it.

18. Caramel Latte

A caramel latte is a coffee drink made with espresso or strong coffee, steamed milk and caramel syrup. For a cheaper homemade version, use a small spoonful of caramel sauce or a budget coffee syrup.

19. Cucumber Water

Cucumber water is made by adding sliced cucumber to cold water. It looks fresh, tastes light, and is a cheap drink for summer gatherings. Add mint, lemon or lime if you have them.

20. Citrus Water

Citrus water is water flavoured with lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit slices. It is a simple alternative to fizzy drinks and a good way to use up fruit that is slightly past its best but still safe to eat.

21. Cherryade

Cherryade is a bright, sweet fizzy cherry drink. It is often sold in large bottles and can be a cheap party option. Serve well chilled for the best flavour.

22. Cloudy Lemonade

Cloudy lemonade starts with C if you are using the full name, and it is a popular sparkling lemon drink. It is sharper and more citrusy than some clear lemonades, making it lovely with ice and fresh mint.

23. Carrot Juice

Carrot juice has a naturally sweet, earthy flavour and is often blended with apple, orange or ginger. If you own a juicer it can be made at home, although shop-bought bottles may be more practical if you only drink it occasionally.

24. Celery Juice

Celery juice is made from fresh celery stalks and has a strong savoury taste. It is not to everyone’s liking, but it can be mixed with apple, cucumber or lemon to soften the flavour.

25. Cashew Milk

Cashew milk is a dairy-free drink made from cashews and water. It has a mild, creamy taste and works in smoothies, porridge and some hot drinks. As with other plant milks, supermarket own-label cartons can be much cheaper than branded ones.

Alcoholic Drinks That Start With C

These C drinks are for adults only. In the UK, alcohol should only be bought and consumed by those legally old enough to do so, and it is sensible to enjoy it in moderation.

26. Cider

Cider is an alcoholic drink made from fermented apple juice. It can be still or sparkling, dry or sweet. In the UK, cider is easy to find in pubs, supermarkets and off-licences. Fruit ciders, such as berry or tropical flavours, are also popular.

27. Craft Cider

Craft cider is usually made in smaller batches and may have a stronger apple flavour than mass-produced cider. It can cost more, so it is worth looking for local producers, farmers’ markets or supermarket offers if you are buying for a special occasion.

28. Champagne

Champagne is sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. It is often associated with celebrations, but it can be expensive. If you want a similar sparkling feel for less, consider cava, crémant or prosecco instead.

29. Cava

Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine and a budget-friendly alternative to Champagne. It is crisp, bubbly and good for parties, toasts and simple cocktails.

30. Crémant

Crémant is French sparkling wine made outside the Champagne region. It can offer excellent value and is widely available in many UK supermarkets, especially around Christmas and New Year.

31. Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine. It is often paired with rich dishes such as roast beef, steak, mushroom dishes or mature cheese. Supermarkets frequently include Cabernet Sauvignon in wine deals, so compare the price per bottle rather than relying on labels alone.

32. Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a white wine that can range from crisp and fresh to rich and buttery. It is widely available and works with chicken, creamy pasta, fish and vegetarian dishes.

33. Chianti

Chianti is an Italian red wine made mainly from Sangiovese grapes. It is a classic match for tomato-based pasta, pizza and roasted vegetables.

34. Cognac

Cognac is a type of brandy from the Cognac region of France. It is usually sipped slowly or used in cocktails. It can be pricey, so for cooking you may prefer a cheaper brandy unless a recipe specifically needs Cognac.

35. Campari

Campari is a bitter Italian aperitif with a bright red colour. It is used in drinks such as the Negroni and Americano. Its bitterness is distinctive, so it is one for grown-up palates.

36. Cream Liqueur

Cream liqueur is a sweet alcoholic drink made with cream and spirits, often whiskey or rum. Irish cream is the best-known style. Once opened, follow the storage instructions on the bottle, as many cream liqueurs need to be kept cool and used within a certain period.

Cocktails That Start With C

If you are planning a themed drinks menu, cocktails beginning with C give you plenty of choice. Many can be adapted into mocktails too.

37. Cosmopolitan

A Cosmopolitan, often called a Cosmo, is made with vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur and lime juice. It is sharp, pink and easy to serve at parties if mixed in batches.

38. Caipirinha

A caipirinha is a Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime and sugar. It is fresh, strong and citrusy. If you cannot find cachaça, some people make a similar drink with rum, although it will not taste quite the same.

39. Cuba Libre

A Cuba Libre is rum, cola and lime. It is simple, affordable and easy to make in a tall glass with plenty of ice. Using own-label cola can help keep costs down for a crowd.

40. Classic Martini

A classic martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, usually garnished with an olive or a lemon twist. It is a strong drink, so it is best served in smaller measures.

41. Clover Club

A Clover Club is a gin cocktail made with raspberry syrup, lemon juice and traditionally egg white for a silky texture. If using raw egg white at home, use fresh eggs, follow food safety guidance and avoid serving it to anyone who has been advised not to eat raw or lightly cooked egg. Aquafaba can be used as an egg-free alternative.

42. Champagne Cocktail

A Champagne cocktail usually includes sparkling wine, sugar and bitters, sometimes with brandy. To save money, use cava or crémant instead of Champagne unless you particularly want the original version.

43. Corpse Reviver

Corpse Reviver cocktails are a family of classic drinks, with Corpse Reviver No. 2 being the best known. It usually includes gin, citrus, orange liqueur and an aromatised wine or absinthe rinse, depending on the recipe.

44. Cucumber Collins

A Cucumber Collins is a refreshing twist on a Tom Collins, usually made with gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, soda water and cucumber. For a mocktail, skip the gin and add more soda water.

Budget-Friendly C Drinks for Parties

Drinks can quietly push up the cost of a birthday, barbecue or family gathering. These C drinks are good value and easy to serve.

• Cola: buy large own-label bottles and serve with ice and lemon.
• Cloudy lemonade: mix with sliced citrus fruit for a simple party jug.
• Cucumber water: very cheap, refreshing and smart-looking in a glass dispenser.
• Cranberry juice drink: stretch with sparkling water for a lighter spritz.
• Chai: make a pan of spiced tea for a winter gathering.
• Cava: a cheaper sparkling option for adult celebrations.
• Cider: often available in multipacks, but compare unit prices before buying.

Simple C Drink Ideas to Make at Home

You do not need a cupboard full of syrups and gadgets to make interesting drinks beginning with C. Try these easy ideas.

Cranberry Citrus Spritz

• Fill a glass with ice.
• Add half cranberry juice drink and half sparkling water.
• Squeeze in a little lime or orange juice.
• Garnish with citrus slices if you have them.

Cheat’s Chai Latte

• Warm a mug of milk or dairy-free milk.
• Steep a chai tea bag in the hot milk for a few minutes.
• Sweeten lightly with sugar, honey or syrup.
• Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

Cola Ice Cream Float

• Add one scoop of vanilla ice cream to a tall glass.
• Slowly pour over chilled cola.
• Serve straight away with a spoon and straw.

Cucumber and Mint Cooler

• Add cucumber slices and a few mint leaves to a jug.
• Top with cold water or sparkling water.
• Chill in the fridge before serving.
• Use within the same day for the freshest flavour.

How to Choose Drinks That Start With C

If you are using this list for a party, quiz night or alphabet food theme, it helps to pick a mix of drinks rather than several that taste similar.

• For children: choose cola, cherryade, cream soda, chocolate milk, citrus water or cloudy lemonade.
• For hot drinks: go for coffee, cappuccino, chai, cocoa or chamomile tea.
• For brunch: serve coffee, cranberry juice, coconut water and cappuccino.
• For a summer barbecue: cola, cider, cucumber water and cranberry spritz work well.
• For a celebration: Champagne, cava, crémant or a Champagne-style cocktail fit the theme.
• For low-cost options: cucumber water, homemade cocoa, own-label cola and diluted cranberry juice are good choices.

Storage and Safety Tips

Most drinks are simple to store, but a few basic habits help reduce waste and keep everything tasting its best.

• Keep opened cartons of juice in the fridge and follow the use-by guidance on the packaging.
• Store milk-based drinks, chilled coffees and cream liqueurs according to the label instructions.
• Do not leave dairy drinks sitting out for long periods, especially in warm weather.
• Keep homemade infused waters in the fridge and drink them the same day where possible.
• Serve alcoholic drinks responsibly and keep them away from children.
• For fizzy drinks, screw caps back on tightly to help keep the bubbles for longer.

More Drinks Beginning With C

Still need more ideas? Here are extra C drinks you might come across on menus, in shops or in recipe books.

• Café au lait
• Café mocha
• Caffè latte
• Caffè macchiato
• Caramel macchiato
• Chocolate shake
• Coconut smoothie
• Cherry smoothie
• Cucumber lemonade
• Citrus punch
• Christmas punch
• Candy cane hot chocolate
• Cardamom tea
• Clove tea
• Carob drink
• Corn milk
• Cactus juice
• Calamansi juice
• Cantaloupe juice
• Custard drink
• Coffee milkshake
• Coconut shake
• Cherry milkshake
• Chocolate malt
• Calvados
• Chartreuse
• Curaçao
• Cointreau
• Canadian whisky

FAQs About Drinks That Start With C

What are common drinks that start with C?

Common drinks that start with C include coffee, cappuccino, cola, cranberry juice, chai, chocolate milk, cider, Champagne, cava and cream soda.

What soft drinks start with C?

Soft drinks beginning with C include cola, cherry cola, cream soda, cherryade, cloudy lemonade, cranberry juice drink, coconut water and cucumber water.

What hot drinks start with C?

Hot drinks that start with C include coffee, cappuccino, cortado, chai, chai latte, chamomile tea, cinnamon tea, cocoa and caramel latte.

What alcoholic drinks start with C?

Alcoholic drinks beginning with C include cider, Champagne, cava, crémant, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chianti, Cognac, Campari and cream liqueur.

What cocktails start with C?

Cocktails that start with C include Cosmopolitan, Caipirinha, Cuba Libre, Classic Martini, Clover Club, Champagne Cocktail, Corpse Reviver and Cucumber Collins.

What is a cheap drink starting with C for a party?

Own-label cola, cucumber water, cranberry juice topped up with sparkling water, cloudy lemonade and homemade chai are all budget-friendly C drinks for parties.

Are there healthy drinks that start with C?

Healthier choices depend on your needs, but unsweetened cucumber water, citrus water, chamomile tea, coconut water, carrot juice and unsweetened coffee or tea can be lighter options than sugary fizzy drinks.

What drink starting with C is best for an alphabet-themed meal?

For a simple alphabet-themed meal, cola, cranberry juice or coffee are easy to find. If you want something a bit more special, try chai latte, cream soda, cava or a cranberry citrus spritz.