Name: Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon; 4-5 fresh strawberries (hulled and quartered); 4-6 fresh basil leaves; 1/2 oz simple syrup; 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice; Ice; Club soda (optional); Strawberry and basil sprig for garnish

Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash is a tasty summer drink. It mixes fresh fruit, herbs, and whiskey. The cocktail is sweet, tangy, and refreshing.

This easy recipe takes about 5 minutes to make.

You’ll need strawberries, basil leaves, bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. A muddler helps blend the flavors.

The drink looks pretty in a glass with ice and garnishes. It’s great for parties or relaxing on a warm evening. People who like fruity cocktails will enjoy this twist on a classic smash.

Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

This refreshing cocktail combines sweet strawberries, aromatic basil, and smooth bourbon for a perfect summer drink. It’s easy to make and sure to impress guests at your next gathering.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
4-5 fresh strawberries hulled and quartered
4-6 fresh basil leaves
1/2 oz simple syrup
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
Ice
Club soda optional
Strawberry and basil sprig for garnish

Choose a good quality bourbon as it’s the main spirit.

Instructions

Add strawberries, basil leaves, and simple syrup to the shaker. Muddle gently to release flavors.

Pour in bourbon and lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice.

Strain the mixture into the glass.
Top with a splash of club soda if desired.
Garnish with a strawberry and basil sprig.

Muddling too hard can make the drink bitter, so be gentle. Shaking well helps chill the cocktail and mix the flavors. Straining removes any fruit bits for a smoother drink.

Notes

This recipe can be adjusted to taste. For a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup. For a stronger bourbon flavor, increase the bourbon to 2.5 oz.

Fresh ingredients are key – using frozen strawberries or dried basil won’t give the same bright flavors.

The drink can be made in larger batches for parties. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed. Prepare just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with unsweetened iced tea. This creates a refreshing mocktail that still captures the essence of the original drink.

Tasting Notes

The Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash offers a well-balanced mix of flavors. Sweet strawberry notes blend with the herbal touch of basil. The bourbon adds warmth and depth to the drink.

On the nose, fresh strawberry scents mingle with aromatic basil. The bourbon’s oak and vanilla notes peek through.

The first sip reveals a harmonious blend of tastes:

Strawberry: Sweet and fruity
Basil: Fresh and slightly peppery
Bourbon: Smooth with hints of caramel and oak

Lemon: Bright citrus tang

The cocktail has a pleasant sweetness that’s not overpowering. The basil adds complexity and keeps the drink from being too sugary.

Texture-wise, the drink is refreshing and easy to sip. Ice helps keep it cool and provides a nice chill. The muddled strawberries give a slight pulpy quality.

This cocktail works well as a summer sipper. It’s cool and fruity enough for hot days, but the bourbon gives it enough body for cooler evenings too.

Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe