I am loving coming up with fun and new cocktails for ya’ll. I’ve always been a big beer girl but lately venturing into the world of cocktails.
It’s been fun to come up with different flavor combinations lately. Especially now that I have a much larger kitchen to experiment in. And also a better space to shoot in.
Allow me to introduce you to my latest obsession: the Blackberry Bourbon Smash.
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What is Blackberry Bourbon Smash?
I’ve been experimenting with bourbon recently and today I’m bringing you a blackberry bourbon smash. It’s a simple cocktail with a sweet blackberry hint to some smooth bourbon.
I bought a local bourbon the last time I was at the liquor store and it looked so delicious I knew I had to make a cocktail soon. This is what I came up with.
This libation has roots in the classic whiskey smash, a cocktail dating back to the 19th century. But with the addition of plump, ripe blackberries, it takes on a whole new dimension of flavor.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
What’s not to love about the Blackberry Bourbon Smash?
It’s a simple yet satisfying blend of fresh blackberries, fragrant mint, zesty lemon, and smooth bourbon. The result? A cocktail that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply unwinding after a long day, this drink is sure to hit the spot.
Other Blackberry Recipes
Ingredients
- Blackberries: These little bursts of flavor add a juicy sweetness that plays perfectly against the rich depth of bourbon.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Fragrant and refreshing, mint brightens up the cocktail with its lively aroma and cool undertones.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of citrus provides a zesty kick that balances out the sweetness of the blackberries.
- Bourbon: The star of the show, bourbon lends its smooth, oaky warmth to the mix, elevating the cocktail to new heights.
- Ginger Beer: This bubbly addition adds a spicy kick and effervescent finish that ties everything together with a satisfying fizz.
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! If you’re out of bourbon, try substituting with whiskey or even rum for a different twist.
Don’t have ginger beer on hand? Swap it out for ginger ale or soda water for a lighter touch.
And for my non-alcoholic friends, simply omit the bourbon altogether for a refreshing mocktail that’s just as delicious.
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How to Make this Recipe
Grab some blackberries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and ginger beer along with the bourbon and let’s get shaking.
Add your blackberries and lemon juice to the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Muddle with a drink muddler or the end of a wooden spoon until the blackberries are fully smashed and juiced.
Add your mint leaves and muddle lightly again.
Pour the bourbon over top and fill about half-way with cubed ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to chill and incorporate all the flavors.
Pour the contents into a tall glass and fill the rest of the way with ice. If you prefer, you can double strain the cocktail over a glass of fresh ice to remove any of the chunks and mint leaves.
Finish by pouring ginger beer over top and giving a gently stir. Garnish with some fresh blackberries and mint leaves, if you prefer.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For the best results, be sure to use fresh, ripe blackberries for maximum flavor. And when selecting your bourbon, opt for a high-quality bottle that you enjoy sipping on its own.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness or tartness to suit your taste buds—after all, cocktails are all about personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Blackberry Bourbon Smash in a chilled glass filled with ice for maximum refreshment.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a few extra blackberries on a cocktail pick.
Pair it with grilled meats, savory appetizers, or even a decadent dessert for the ultimate flavor experience.
Storage Suggestions
If you somehow manage not to slurp up every last drop of your Blackberry Bourbon Smash in one sitting (hey, we’ve all been there), simply cover and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a day.
Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again to reincorporate any settled ingredients.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them before using and adjust the sweetness as needed.
What’s the best bourbon to use for this recipe? Any good-quality bourbon will do the trick, but feel free to experiment with different brands to find your perfect match.
Can I make a large batch of this cocktail for a party? Of course! Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and mix everything up in a pitcher for easy serving.
More Bourbon Smash Inspired Recipes
So there you have it: my latest cocktail obsession, the Blackberry Bourbon Smash. Whether you’re lounging on the porch with friends or kicking back after a long day at work, this refreshing libation is sure to hit the spot.
So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! Cheers to good drinks and even better company.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- 6 blackberries fresh
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- ½ oz lemon juice
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz ginger beer or more, to taste
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add blackberries, mint leaves, and lemon juice. Muddle with a drink muddler or the end of a wooden spoon until fully crushed.6 blackberries, 6 fresh mint leaves, 1/2 oz lemon juice
- Add bourbon and fill shaker 1/2 full with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.2 oz bourbon
- Pour contents into tall glass and fill the rest of the way with ice. Top with ginger beer.2 oz ginger beer
- Alternatively, if you do not like chunks in your drink, you can double strain the contents into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Then top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with extra blackberries and mint leaves, if desired.
