Are you ready to try a refreshing twist on an old classic? The Cucumber Collins cocktail is a cool and crisp drink that’s perfect for sunny afternoons or laid-back evenings. This drink combines the zesty goodness of a Tom Collins with the soothing taste of cucumber to keep things light and breezy. 🍹
Mixing this cocktail is simple and fun! You just need a few basic ingredients like gin, lemon juice, soda water, and, of course, fresh cucumber slices. This is what makes it so appealing, especially when you’re in the mood for something different yet easy to prepare.
I love enjoying this cocktail during a warm day, and it never fails to impress my friends at gatherings. Let me know in the comments if you’re as big of a fan as I am, or if you have any personal twists to this recipe. 🤗
Cucumber Collins Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- First, a shaker for mixing everything together.
- A jigger helps measure the liquids accurately, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
- You’ll also need a muddler to gently crush the cucumber slices. This releases their juice, mixing their fresh taste into the drink.
- Next, a strainer keeps out the pulp, so your cocktail is smooth and clean.
- Finally, grab a highball glass to serve it in style. Add a stirrer to mix everything well.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing drink:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 cucumber slices
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Cucumber wheel and lemon slice for garnish
These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores. Using fresh lemon juice is key. It really brightens up the flavor. 🥤
Instructions
Let’s get started on making a Cucumber Collins.
- First, in a shaker, combine the cucumber slices and simple syrup. Use the muddler to crush the cucumber until it’s juicy.
- Add the gin and lemon juice to the shaker. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top it off with club soda, gently stir, and garnish with a cucumber wheel and lemon slice.
There you have it, a refreshing cocktail ready to enjoy! 🍋
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of a Cucumber Collins, the first thing I notice is the crisp freshness. 🌿 The cool cucumber mingles perfectly with the zesty lemon, creating a bright and refreshing start.
The gin brings a subtle botanical taste. It’s smooth and slightly herbal. The interplay between the cucumber and gin is just delightful.
For sweetness, the simple syrup adds just the right touch. It’s not too overpowering, allowing the natural flavors to shine. The fizz from the club soda gives it a nice bubbly lift. 🥂
Here’s what you might taste in a Cucumber Collins:
- Fresh cucumber slices 🍃
- Zesty lemon juice 🍋
- Botanical gin notes
- Light sweetness
- Bubbling club soda
This drink is perfect when you want something refreshing and light. Each sip feels like a little getaway, and I can’t get enough of that cooling cucumber flavor. Always hits the spot!
If you’ve tried it, let me know your thoughts below! 😃 I’d love to hear your take on this cocktail. Share your experiences and any tweaks you’ve made. Cheers to great drinks and good times! 🎉
Substitute
Sometimes we need a little twist to our Cucumber Collins. Here are some easy substitutes to try! 😊
Liquor Options:
- Vodka: Not a fan of gin? Try vodka for a smoother taste.
- Tequila: Feeling adventurous? Swap in tequila for a zesty kick! 🌵
Herbal Twist:
- Basil: Replace mint with fresh basil for an earthy flavor.
- Rosemary: Want something unique? Use rosemary instead! 🌿
Juice Swap:
- Lime: No lemons? Lime juice adds a citrusy zing.
- Orange: For a sweeter touch, try orange juice! 🍊
Sweeteners:
- Honey: Swap simple syrup with honey for natural sweetness.
- Agave: Agave nectar is a great alternative for a subtle flavor.
Share Your Ideas!
I’d love to hear your own substitutes! Share your creative twists in the comments and let’s get mixing! 🍹
Tips & Tricks
Making a Cucumber Collins is fun and easy! Here are some tips to make your cocktail even better. 🥒🍹
- Chill your glass: I always put my glass in the freezer for a few minutes. This keeps the drink cold longer.
- Use fresh cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers make a huge difference. I love slicing them thin for garnishing.
Mixing cocktails is all about personal taste. Here’s how I like to make mine stand out:
- Experiment with gin: Different gins have unique flavors. I like trying new ones to see which gives the best taste.
- Add a splash of club soda: For a fizzy twist, sometimes, I add just a bit more club soda.
For those of you who want to get creative, try these ideas:
- Infuse your syrup: Try adding herbs like mint to your syrup. The extra flavor will really pop! 🌿
- Garnish with style: I love adding a lemon wheel or a sprig of mint for extra flair.
Let me know your favorite Cucumber Collins tip or trick in the comments! 🍋🎉