Blackberry Bourbon Smash Recipe

I absolutely love this Blackberry Bourbon Smash recipe because it blends the bold, warm notes of bourbon with the refreshing burst of fresh blackberries and mint, making it the perfect drink for unwinding after a long day. Plus, the addition of a lemon wheel and mint sprig as garnishes gives it that extra flair for the ‘Gram, striking the ideal balance between style and flavor.

I adore making the ideal balance of flavors, and my Blackberry Bourbon Smash is just that. With 2 ounces of bourbon, fresh blackberries, and a whisper of fresh lemon juice, this cocktail is both super refreshing and complex.

Simple syrup sweetens the deal, and mint leaves lend a fragrant twist.

Ingredients

Bourbon: Flavor-rich, adds complexity; has got alcohol for unwinding, carbs.

Blackberries are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

They bring the right amount of natural sweetness and a hint of tang to the dessert.

Fresh Juice from Lemons: Vitamin C supercharged; a supertart flavor punch that really wakes up a dish.

Fresh mint gives off a delightful fragrance that tingles the senses and signals the health benefits to come.

Mint helps with digestion, satisfying the stomach and offering a cooling sensation that can help with (acid) reflux.

Simple Syrup: Evens out the sharpness; contributes sweetness, sugars from sugar, and starches.

When using simple syrup, you also use it to balance flavors.

Soda Club: Provides effervescence, water and no calories; no sugar.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh blackberries
• 4-6 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda, to top
• Ice, as needed
• Mint sprig, for garnish
• Blackberry, for garnish
• Lemon wheel, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, gently mash the fresh blackberries and mint leaves to set free their enticing flavors.

2. Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.

3. Put ice into the shaker, then seal it and shake it well until the mixture is very cold.

4. Pour the mixed contents into a rocks glass that is full of fresh ice.

5. Finish the drink with a splash of club soda to taste.

6. Delicately mix the components together.

7. Add a sprig of mint to lend a lovely aromatic note.

8. Top with a fresh blackberry for a burst of color.

9. Position a disc of lemon on the edge of the glass or balance it on top of the drink’s liquid surface to make it look more attractive.

10. Savor right away, and thus your invigorating Blackberry Bourbon Smash.

Equipment Needed

1. Cocktail shaker
2. Muddler
3. Jigger or measuring cup
4. Rocks glass
5. Ice cube tray or ice maker
6. Bar spoon or stirrer
7. Knife (for cutting lemon wheel)
8. Cutting board

FAQ

• Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?You can use frozen blackberries, but let them thaw first for better muddling.
• What type of bourbon works best?A bourbon with a smooth finish and mid-range price point is a good complement to this dish’s flavors. But feel free to use your favorite bourbon.
• Is there a substitute for simple syrup?As substitutes, you can use honey or agave syrup; however, be forewarned that their use might change the flavor profile a tad.
• How do I make my own simple syrup?Equal parts sugar and water, combined and heated until dissolved. Allows to cool before use.
• Can I make it non-alcoholic?Certainly! To make a refreshing blackberry mocktail, leave out the bourbon and add more club soda.
• Do I need to use fresh lemon juice?For the best taste, fresh lemon juice is essential; however, bottled juice may be used when convenient.
• What’s the best way to muddle mint and blackberries?A muddler or a spoon should be used to gently press and twist the ingredients, releasing their flavors without tearing the mint.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to try something different with your cocktails, skip the bourbon and instead mix in rye whiskey. You’ll get a spicy kick that you definitely won’t find in the more mellow cousin. And if you’d rather go non-alcoholic, there are plenty of whiskey alternatives on the market now.
For simple syrup: A natural sweetener with a slight flavor difference, honey or agave syrup can be used.
For fresh lemon juice: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you might have lime juice. That would work, too, for a different citrus profile. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. But if you want a really close match to what the original recipe intended, you should try to use fresh lemon juice.
For new blackberries: If fresh blackberries are out of season, use frozen blackberries, or try using raspberries for a different berry flavor.
For freshly picked mint leaves: If you don’t have mint leaves, a few basil leaves can provide a unique twist. You can also use a few drops of mint extract if you can’t get your hands on fresh herbs.

Pro Tips

1. Muddle with Care When muddling the blackberries and mint, do so gently to avoid over-crushing the mint leaves, which can release bitter flavors. You’re looking to just release the oils and juices.

2. Chill Your Glassware For an extra refreshing experience, chill your rocks glass in the freezer before you start making the cocktail. This will help keep your drink colder for longer without diluting it too quickly.

3. Custom Simple Syrup Consider making a flavored simple syrup by infusing it with additional mint or blackberry. This can add an extra layer of flavor to your cocktail.

4. Choose Quality Bourbon Use a good quality bourbon, as it will be the primary flavor in the cocktail. A smoother bourbon will make for a more enjoyable drink.

5. Adjust Sweetness to Taste If you prefer your cocktail less sweet, reduce the amount of simple syrup. Taste test after shaking and adjust if necessary before serving.