Learn how to make the best gin smash with this refreshing Gin Basil Smash recipe! Combine muddled fresh basil, gin, lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup for a clean, sweet, and citrusy cocktail. 

a gin basil smash cocktail in a green glass with a lemon wedge and basil garnish

Gin Smash Ingredients

To make a gin basil smash cocktail you will need four simple ingredients along with a cocktail shaker and something to muddle, or smash, the basil.

  • Gin
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Simple syrup – Alternatively substitute a sugar cube or agave nectar
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • (optional) Soda water

ingredients to make a gin smash

How To Make a Gin Basil smash

  1. Place the basil, simple syrup, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Muddle the ingredients together to bruise the basil and release the flavor.
  3. Add the gin, ice, and shake vigorously to combine.
  4. Strain into a rocks filled glass, and add an optional splash of soda water.

a muddler muddling fresh basil in a cocktail shaker

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frequently asked questions

What is the best gin to use? 

I recommend a mid-range, neutral tasting gin, such as Hendrick’s or Bombay.

Variations of a gin smash
  • Make a Basil Cucumber Smash by muddling peeled and seeded cucumber cubes.
  • Smash strawberries or blackberries in place of the basil or in addition to.
  • Instead of basil, use fresh mint or Thai basil.
  • Top with soda water or seltzer to make a less potent drink and add a bit of fizz
  • Try a vodka version with Vodka Basil Gimlet
How do i make simple syrup?
  • Method 1: Place equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. For instance, if you use 1/2 cup water, mix in 1/2 cup sugar. Heat and stir occasionally until sugar has dissolved and liquid is clear. Cool.
  • Method 2: Place equal parts sugar and water in a microwave safe cup or bowl. Heat in microwave, stopping occasionally to stir until sugar has dissolved and liquid is clear. Cool.

Store leftover simple syrup in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator up to six weeks.

can I serve this straight up or on the rocks?

This cocktail may be made be enjoyed either way. Straight up, strained into a martini glass, gives a cleaner taste without diluting the flavor.

If you are concerned about the strength, make it in a rocks glass with ice. As the drink is enjoyed, the ice melts slightly into the cocktail for a less pungent flavor. Also consider adding a splash of soda water to dilute the drink.

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top view of a gin smash drink with lemons and basil around it

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a gin basil smash cocktail in a green glass with a lemon wedge and basil garnish
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Gin Basil Smash

Melissa Erdelac of MamaGourmand headshot in patterned dress.Melissa Erdelac
Yield: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Learn how to make the best gin smash with this refreshing Gin Basil Smash recipe! Combine muddled fresh basil, gin, lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup for a clean, sweet, and citrusy cocktail. 
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Ingredients
 

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • Place the basil, simple syrup, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Muddle the ingredients together to bruise the basil and release the flavor.
  • Add the gin, ice, and shake vigorously to combine. Strain into a rocks filled glass. Add a splash of optional soda water, if desired.

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    Notes

     
    Variations of a gin smash
    • Make a Basil Cucumber Smash by muddling peeled and seeded cucumber cubes.
    • Smash strawberries or blackberries in place of the basil or in addition to.
    • Instead of basil, use fresh mint or Thai basil.
    • Top with soda water or seltzer to make a less potent drink and add a bit of fizz
     
    How do i make simple syrup?
    • Method 1: Place equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. For instance, if you use 1/2 cup water, mix in 1/2 cup sugar. Heat and stir occasionally until sugar has dissolved and liquid is clear. Cool.
    • Method 2: Place equal parts sugar and water in a microwave safe cup or bowl. Heat in microwave, stopping occasionally to stir until sugar has dissolved and liquid is clear. Cool.
    Store leftover simple syrup in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator up to six weeks.
     
    Adapted from Epicurious
    Calories: 129kcal, Carbohydrates: 33g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 24mg, Potassium: 235mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 22g, Vitamin A: 169IU, Vitamin C: 14mg, Iron: 1mg
    Did you make this recipe?Please leave a star rating and review below. It helps others when searching for recipes and I LOVE feedback!

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