Citrus Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

Nothing tastes quite as light and refreshing as a Citrus Basil Smash. This cocktail mixes citrus juice, fresh basil, and gin to make a drink that is both bright and flavorful.

I love how easy it is to make with just a few simple ingredients. The basil gives it a herbal note while the citrus keeps it crisp.

This recipe is great for relaxing outside or serving at a small dinner. With only a short list of steps, anyone can make this drink at home.

Citrus Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

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This recipe uses fresh basil and mixed citrus to create a balanced, refreshing drink. It explains exactly what I use, how I prepare it, and the details you need to make the same cocktail at home.

John

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Serving Size 1

Equipment

• A muddler helps me press the basil to bring out its flavor. If I don’t have a muddler
• I just grab the back of a spoon and use that instead.
• I use a jigger to measure the liquids, which helps my recipe stay accurate.
• A cocktail shaker is best for mixing, but honestly, a mason jar with a lid will work as well.
• I strain the drink into a glass to keep out the basil pieces and ice.
• For glassware, I prefer a rocks or lowball glass.

Ingredients

I use easy-to-find ingredients for this cocktail. Here is what I mix together:

• 2 oz gin
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz fresh orange juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 4 –6 fresh basil leaves
• Ice cubes
• Orange or lemon wedge for garnish
• Extra basil sprig for garnish

If I want a sweeter drink, I add a bit more syrup. If I prefer it more tart, I use more lemon juice.

Instructions

• I start by adding the basil leaves and simple syrup to the cocktail shaker.
• I gently muddle the basil to release its flavor, but I don’t crush it too much or the taste can turn bitter.
• Next, I add gin, lemon juice, orange juice, and a few ice cubes.
• I shake the mixture hard for about 15 seconds so it chills well.
• Then, I strain everything into a rocks glass filled with clean ice.
• I finish the drink with a wedge of orange or lemon on the rim and a little basil sprig.
• This gives a nice look and it smells great.

Notes

I use fresh basil because dried basil just won’t give the right taste or aroma. If gin isn’t my favorite, I sometimes use vodka in the same amount and it works well.

For the simple syrup, I mix equal parts sugar and water in a small pot, heat until the sugar is gone, and let it cool. I use any leftover syrup in other drinks.

If I don’t have a shaker, a mason jar works as long as I can close and shake it. Rinsing the basil with cold water before using keeps the leaves fresh and bright.

The fresher the ingredients, the better the drink will turn out.

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Tasting Notes

When I sip the Citrus Basil Smash, I notice a fresh and bright citrus aroma. The smell of basil is gentle but easy to pick up.

The taste starts with a pop of lemon and orange, both tart and sweet. The basil comes in right after, adding a clean, green flavor that balances the sharpness of the citrus.

I find the texture to be light, not heavy or thick. The drink feels cooling and smooth as I drink it.

I pick up a bit of sweetness from the fruit and a small bite from the citrus juice. The basil leaves a fresh aftertaste that lingers only a short time.

Refreshing, zesty, and herbal are the three words that come to mind when I describe this cocktail. Each sip is easy and not too strong.

Substitute

If I’m out of gin, vodka usually works just fine and actually makes things a bit smoother. Sometimes I’ll reach for light rum instead, and it brings in a little extra sweetness—kind of fun, honestly.

Basil is usually the star herb here, but mint steps in nicely when needed. Cilantro is a bolder move, but hey, it gives the drink a quirky twist.

Some days I want less sugar, so I’ll grab agave nectar or honey syrup instead of plain simple syrup. Both blend in well enough and keep the flavors pretty balanced.

I might swap club soda for sparkling water if I’m after a lighter, cleaner finish. Tonic water is a whole different vibe—it’s more bitter, so I only reach for it if I’m craving a sharper edge.