Blackberry Bourbon Smash Recipe
Stay cool this summer with a blackberry bourbon smash in hand! You'll just love how that sweet, smooth bourbon gets a refreshing makeover from those tart blackberries, fresh mint, lemon and bubbly club soda topping.
How to Make the Best Blackberry Bourbon Smash
A Summer Refresher
Nothing says summer quite like a blackberry bourbon smash in hand. This sophisticated cocktail brings together the smooth warmth of bourbon with the bright, tart notes of fresh blackberries, creating a perfectly balanced drink that’s both refreshing and complex. The addition of fresh mint and a splash of club soda keeps things light and bubbly, making it the ideal choice for a lazy afternoon on the patio.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
This blackberry bourbon smash stands out because it’s built on a homemade blackberry simple syrup that captures the essence of fresh berries. Unlike pre-mixed cocktails that rely on artificial flavors, this drink celebrates the natural tartness and subtle sweetness of real blackberries. The muddled lemon and fresh mint add brightness and depth, while the club soda gives it a playful effervescence that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party, unwinding after a long week, or simply looking for a special drink to enjoy with good company, the blackberry bourbon smash delivers on all fronts. The recipe is easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests who appreciate craft cocktails. Make a big batch of the simple syrup ahead of time, and you can whip up fresh drinks whenever the mood strikes.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Stay cool this summer with a blackberry bourbon smash in hand! You'll just love how that sweet, smooth bourbon gets a refreshing makeover from those tart blackberries, fresh mint, lemon and bubbly club soda topping.
Ingredients
Blackberry Simple Syrup
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Instructions
Blackberry Simple Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and blackberries.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the solids.
- Allow to cool completely before using.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle lemon wedges and blackberries together until slightly crushed.
- Add 1 ounce of blackberry simple syrup, 8-10 fresh mint leaves, and 2 ounces of bourbon to the shaker.
- Gently muddle the mint to release its oils, being careful not to bruise it too much.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of chilled club soda.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and enjoy!
Notes
- Make the blackberry simple syrup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup to ¾ ounce.
- This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs well with light appetizers.
- Feel free to use blackberry liqueur instead of bourbon for a sweeter variation.