Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer cocktail, the Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz for 4 brings together juicy berries, garden-fresh basil, and just enough gin to make every sip special. This drink is what I reach for on sunny afternoons with friends on the patio, and I promise: once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make 4 over and over all season long. It’s fizzy, herbaceous, and a little sweet—but never overwhelming—making this the perfect recipe for sharing those lazy afternoons or lively nights!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a few simple ingredients, you get big flavor and color in every glass. Each one plays its part in creating a Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz that feels like something from a craft cocktail bar, but in reality, it’s just these essentials blended perfectly for 4.

• Gin: The backbone of our fizz, choose a high-quality gin with botanical notes that complement the basil and strawberries.
• Fresh Strawberries: Pick ripe, sweet berries for a punch of flavor and gorgeous color—they’re the soul of this cocktail.
• Lime Juice: Brightens up the drink with tangy freshness and balances the sweetness.
• Soda Water: Adds that delightful fizz and keeps the drink light and refreshing for all 4 servings.
• Simple Syrup: Just a touch gives the perfect sweetness, letting the fruit and herbs shine.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Don’t skip this! Basil adds a peppery, herbal note that makes the flavors sing.
• Ice: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to the ideal sipping strength.

How to Make 4

Step 1: Muddle the Strawberries and Basil

Start by adding the sliced strawberries, a handful of basil leaves, and simple syrup to your cocktail shaker. Use a muddler to gently press the berries and basil—just enough to release their flavors and juices, but not so much that you pulverize them. This is where the magic begins for all 4 glasses, infusing the base with color and aroma.

Step 2: Add Gin and Lime Juice

Pour in the gin and freshly squeezed lime juice. These ingredients give our fizz its classic tangy spike and that unmistakable kick. Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to make sure everything mixes beautifully for 4 cocktails.

Step 3: Strain Over Ice

Fill four glasses with plenty of ice, then strain the cocktail mixture evenly among them. This ensures each of the 4 gets a fair share of all those muddled flavors without big chunks of fruit or basil floating around (unless you love that sort of thing!).

Step 4: Top and Stir

Gently top off each glass with a generous splash of soda water. Give each one a little stir to blend—this not only adds all that fabulous bubbly texture but also balances the drink so it’s not too sweet or strong for any of the 4.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, garnish each glass with a fresh basil leaf and a slice or whole strawberry perched on the rim. Serve immediately and watch as 4 delighted friends reach for their glasses!

How to Serve 4

Garnishes

The beauty of the Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz is amplified when you lavish it with vibrant garnishes. Drop in a few whole basil leaves for fragrance or thread strawberry slices on cocktail picks for a playful touch. The visual appeal will have all 4 guests grinning before their first sip!

Side Dishes

Pair the fizz with light bites that don’t compete with the drink’s fresh flavors. Think cheese boards with creamy brie, fresh bread, or even shrimp cocktail. The sweet and herbaceous notes of the 4 will complement a whole array of summer appetizers, making the whole experience feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your crowd, serve the 4 in mason jars or stemmed glasses tucked with mini herb bouquets. You can even freeze strawberry slices and basil in ice cubes ahead of time, giving each fizz that extra pop of beauty and flavor as the ice melts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare once you serve this to 4), store the base (muddled fruit, basil, gin, and lime) in a covered jar in the fridge for up to one day. Leave out the soda water so it stays fizzy when you’re ready to serve again!

Freezing

While the Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the muddled strawberry-basil-gin mixture in ice cube trays for a fun twist. Pop one in your glass and top with soda water anytime you crave just one of the 4.

Reheating

This drink is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t needed. If you want to revive some of the freshness in leftovers, add more ice, a splash of lime, and top with fresh soda water before serving to all 4 guests.

FAQs

Can I make a non-alcoholic version for guests?

Absolutely! Simply leave out the gin and replace it with more soda water or a splash of tonic. The strawberry and basil still shine and everyone—even kids—can join in on the 4 fun.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

You can, but thaw them first so they’re easy to muddle. The flavor won’t be quite as bright as fresh, but for 4 people looking for a refreshing treat, it’s a great substitute when berries aren’t in season.

What’s the best gin to use?

If you’re making this for 4, choose a gin with fresh, citrusy, or herbal notes. Hendrick’s, Tanqueray, or your favorite local craft gin all work beautifully. Try a few to find your perfect flavor match!

Can I prep the cocktail base in advance?

You sure can! Make the muddled strawberry, basil, gin, and lime juice base a couple of hours ahead and keep it chilled. Wait to add soda water and ice until serving so your 4 drinks are bubbly and fresh.

How do I adjust the recipe if I want fewer or more than 4 drinks?

Just scale each ingredient up or down according to your needs—this recipe multiplies and divides easily. If you’re hosting a crowd, consider mixing a big batch of the base and letting everyone top up their own fizz at the party!

Final Thoughts

Every time I share the Strawberry Basil Gin Fizz, someone asks for the recipe—and I’m always thrilled to hand it over. If you’re searching for a cocktail with wow-factor, flavor, and effortless charm, this is the one for 4. Invite some friends, grab a handful of strawberries and basil, and let the good times fizz!

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