Fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant – the Blackberry Basil Smash is a seasonal cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With juicy blackberries, fragrant basil, and crisp spirits, this drink brings garden-to-glass flavor in every sip. Whether you’re unwinding solo or entertaining friends, it’s a cocktail that looks impressive but takes just minutes to make.
There’s something magical about muddling fresh herbs and fruit – the aromas, the colors, the instant freshness it brings to a cocktail. The Blackberry Basil Smash is built on that magic, combining the tang of ripe blackberries with the crisp, peppery bite of basil for a drink that’s both bold and refreshing.
I first made this cocktail on a warm evening when I had leftover basil from dinner and a handful of blackberries that needed using up. It turned out to be the perfect pairing. The flavor is bright yet balanced, fruity without being too sweet, and unmistakably fresh.
Whether you’re mixing up a solo sipper after a long day or want a drink that’ll wow your friends at a backyard get-together, the Blackberry Basil Smash delivers. It looks fancy, tastes even better, and comes together in under 5 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4–5 fresh blackberries
- 3–4 fresh basil leaves
- ½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz gin (or vodka, if preferred)
- Ice
- Club soda (optional, to top)
- Garnish: blackberry + basil sprig
Instructions
- Muddle blackberries and basil in a shaker until well broken down.
- Add simple syrup, lemon juice, and gin. Fill shaker with ice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda if desired, and garnish with a blackberry and basil sprig.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredients
Method
- Muddle blackberries and basil in a shaker until well broken down.
- Add simple syrup, lemon juice, and gin. Fill shaker with ice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda if desired, and garnish with a blackberry and basil sprig.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute vodka for gin for a milder flavor.
- For a mocktail version, skip the alcohol and add a splash of elderflower tonic.