Watermelon Bourbon Smash Cocktail
A crisp, summery bourbon smash with fresh watermelon, mint, and citrus. Easy to shake, beautifully refreshing, and perfect for hot days.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Small knife and cutting board
- Rocks glass (old-fashioned glass)
- Ice cubes
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- 1 cup watermelon chunks or 3 oz watermelon juice
- 4-6 leaves fresh mint
- 1/2 oz simple syrup adjust to taste
- 1/2 oz lemon juice or lime juice, fresh
- ice cubes
- club soda optional, for topping
- mint sprig garnish
- watermelon wedge garnish
Instructions
- Add watermelon chunks and mint leaves to a cocktail shaker, then muddle gently to release juices and mint oils.
- Pour in bourbon, simple syrup, and lemon (or lime) juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice (fine-strain for a smoother texture).
- Optional: Top with a splash of club soda for a lighter drink.
- Garnish with a mint sprig or a small watermelon wedge.
Notes
Adjust simple syrup based on the sweetness of your watermelon. Always use fresh citrus. You can prep watermelon juice ahead and keep it cold for faster service.