Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

The First Sip That Stole My Heart

The first time I tried this drink, summer hit me like a wave. Tart raspberries danced with smoky bourbon. Mint made it fresh, lemon gave it zip. I was hooked after one icy sip. Ever wondered how to turn a basic cocktail into something unforgettable? This smash does it with just six ingredients.

My Messy (But Tasty) First Attempt

I once muddled the mint too hard—bits stuck in my teeth. The bourbon splashed my shirt, staining it pink. Still, the drink tasted like sunshine in a glass. Home cooking teaches us to laugh at mistakes and savor the wins. Now I muddle gently and measure carefully. Perfection’s overrated anyway.

Why This Combo Works

– Sweet syrup balances the raspberries’ sharp tang. – Bourbon’s warmth melts into the soda’s fizz for a lively finish. Which flavor combo surprises you most? Try it with blackberries if raspberries aren’t your jam.

A Drink With Roots

Smash cocktails started in 1800s America, mixing spirits with fruit and herbs. Farmers used what they grew. *Did you know bourbon must be made in the U.S. to earn the name?* This recipe nods to tradition but keeps it simple. Share your twist in the comments!
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Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash
Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

Ingredients:

IngredientAmountNotes
Raspberries6
Mint leaves4-5
Lemon wedges2-3
Simple syrup½ oz
Bourbon2 oz
IceAs needed
Club sodaTo top

How to Make a Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

Step 1 Grab a shaker and toss in 6 raspberries, 4-5 mint leaves, and 2-3 lemon wedges. Press them gently with a muddler to release flavors. Don’t smash too hard—just enough to break them down. (*Hard-learned tip: Over-muddling mint makes it bitter!*) Step 2 Pour in ½ oz simple syrup and 2 oz bourbon. Add a handful of ice to the shaker. Shake it like you mean it for about 15 seconds. The shaker should feel frosty when done. Step 3 Strain the mix into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Top it off with a splash of club soda. Add extra raspberries or mint for a pretty touch. Sip slow and savor the summer vibes. What’s your go-to summer drink? Share below! Prep Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes Yield: 1 Cocktail Category: Drinks, Cocktails

3 Fun Twists on This Summer Smash

Berry Swap Try blackberries or strawberries instead of raspberries for a new flavor. Herb Upgrade Swap mint for basil or thyme to change the herbal kick. Booze-Free Bliss Skip the bourbon and use ginger beer for a zesty mocktail. Which twist would you try first? Vote in the comments!

Serving Ideas for Your Smash

Pair it with grilled shrimp skewers or a fresh caprese salad. For snacks, try salty nuts or crispy crackers. Drink it with a cold IPA or a fizzy lemonade. Both choices keep things light and refreshing. Which would you choose tonight? Tell us below!
Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash
Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

Keep It Fresh or Make It Ahead

This drink tastes best fresh, but you can prep parts early. Muddle raspberries, mint, and lemon ahead. Store in a jar for up to 4 hours. Skip the club soda until serving—it goes flat. *Fun fact: Bourbon’s vanilla notes deepen if mixed an hour early.* Batch tip: Triple the muddled mix, but mix drinks one at a time.
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Why this matters: Fresh mint turns bitter if left too long. Club soda loses fizz fast. Ever tried prepping cocktails for a party? Share your tricks below!

Troubleshooting Your Smash

Too tart? Add a splash more syrup. Mint too strong? Use fewer leaves or skip muddling—just garnish. Bourbon too sharp? Try a sweeter brand or chill it longer. Shaker stuck? Tap the lid gently with a spoon. Ice watered it down? Use bigger cubes—they melt slower. Why this matters: Small tweaks make big differences in balance. My neighbor once used lime instead of lemon—still tasty! What’s your go-to fix for too-tart drinks?

Your Questions, Answered

Q: Can I make this gluten-free? A: Yes! Bourbon is usually gluten-free, but check labels to be safe. Q: How far ahead can I prep? A: Muddle the fruit and herbs up to 4 hours early. Q: What swaps work for bourbon? A: Try rye whiskey or even dark rum for a twist. Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Absolutely—just mix in batches to keep flavors even. Q: No fresh raspberries? A: Frozen work too—thaw first, but expect softer texture.

Cheers to Summer Sipping

This smash is my go-to for lazy porch evenings. The raspberries? Straight from my garden last year. *Fun fact: Bees love raspberry blooms almost as much as I love this drink.* Tag Savory Discovery on Pinterest with your creations! Happy cooking! —Elowen Thorn
Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash
Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

Raspberry Bourbon Summer Smash

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: minutesRest time: Total time: 5 minutesServings:1 Cocktail servingsCalories: kcal Best Season:Summer

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a shaker place raspberries, mint leaves, and lemon wedges.
  2. Muddle until well smashed.
  3. Add simple syrup, bourbon, and ice to the shaker and shake vigorously, until outside of shaker is very cold (approximately 15 seconds).
  4. Strain contents of shaker into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and optionally garnish your glass with additional mint, raspberries, and/or lemon wedges.
  5. Enjoy!
Keywords:Raspberry, Bourbon, Cocktail, Summer, Mint