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
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Ice
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
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.
Substitute
Strawberry basil bourbon smash is a tasty cocktail. Sometimes you might not have all the ingredients on hand.
Don’t worry! There are easy swaps you can make.
No fresh strawberries? Try using strawberry jam instead. Use 1-2 teaspoons per drink. This gives a sweet berry flavor.
Basil can be replaced with mint. Mint adds a fresh, cool taste to the drink. Use the same amount as you would basil.
If you’re out of bourbon, try rye whiskey. It has a spicy kick that works well in this cocktail.
Vodka is another option for a lighter flavor.
No simple syrup? Mix equal parts sugar and warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
Lemon juice can stand in for lime juice. The citrus helps balance the drink’s sweetness.
For a non-alcoholic version, use ginger ale or lemon-lime soda instead of bourbon.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
These swaps let you enjoy a similar drink, even without exact ingredients.