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

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

Total Time 5

Serving Size

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.

Must Have Ingredients

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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.

Citrus Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe