Gin Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe
Add an herbal twist with this Gin Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe. This smooth and refreshing drink is made with fresh herbs for the perfect summer cocktail.

The first time I made gin basil smashes last year, I was blown away by the amazing flavor. This year, I grew my own whole basil plant so I can make this refreshing cocktail anytime I like. The peppery basil adds such amazing flavor, but you could try it with different herbs too!
If you love this recipe, try our other summer cocktails: Blackberry Mojito Cocktail and Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
Ingredients you’ll need

- Gin. I used Bombay Sapphire dry gin. If you want a stronger lemon flavor, use lemon gin.
- Fresh basil leaves. Clap them together before muddling to release more flavor.
- Lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice will give you the best flavor. You can also use lime juice for a different flavor.
- Simple syrup. Add more sugar syrup if you want it sweeter.
- Soda water. This adds a bit of fizz. You could also use club soda.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
How to make a gin basil smash

Step 1: Place basil leaves in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Muddle gently to release their flavor.

Step 2: Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the cocktail shaker.

Step 3: Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker, cover with a lid, and shake vigorously for 15-30 seconds.

Step 4: Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass or rocks glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with lemon and a sprig of basil.
Expert Tips
- Before adding basil leaves to the shaker, give them a gentle slap between your hands to release their fresh basil flavor.
- Muddle the basil gently. Use a light hand so you don’t damage the leaves.
- If you have time, make your own simple syrup using equal parts white sugar and water. Add some lemon zest or basil to infuse more flavor.
- Use fresh ice made from filtered water for the best flavor.

FAQs about gin basil smash

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Gin Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients
- 2 ounces Gin
- 10-12 large basil leaves plus extra for garnish
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- ice cubes
- soda water
Instructions
- Gently clap the basil leaves between your hands to release their aromatic oil. Place them in a cocktail shaker and muddle gently.10-12 large basil leaves
- Add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.2 ounces Gin, 1 ounce fresh lemon juice, ½ ounce simple syrup
- Add a handful of ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.ice cubes
- Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice cubes.
- Top with a splash of soda water for some fizz.soda water
- Garnish with a sprig of basil.
Notes
- Before adding basil leaves to the shaker, give them a gentle slap between your hands to release their aroma.
- Muddle the basil gently. Use a light hand so you don’t damage the leaves.
- Make your own simple syrup using equal parts sugar and water if you have time. Add some lemon zest or basil to infuse more flavor.