(How to) Make a Refreshing Strawberry Basil Rye Smash
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Time to read 4 min
There’s something about a smash cocktail that just screams summer. It’s light, refreshing, and all about showcasing fresh, vibrant flavors. While most smashes rely on in-season fruits and herbs, this Strawberry Basil Rye Smash brings that same fresh vibe year-round, thanks to our Berry & Brine Strawberry Basil Jam. This jam isn’t just your average spread—it’s packed with whole chunks of ripe strawberries and aromatic basil, captured at their peak.
What makes this cocktail a standout is how easy it is to prepare, without sacrificing flavour. You’ve got the rich depth of rye whiskey, the tang of fresh lemon juice, and the brightness of basil, all rounded out by the sweet, slightly herbal notes of the jam. It’s like a classic mojito or whiskey sour, but with a fun, fruity twist that’s perfect for any occasion.
One of the best parts? You can batch this cocktail ahead of time, making it a breeze to serve at dinner parties, gatherings, or special events. Just leave out the soda until you’re ready to pour, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing drink that’s sure to impress. It’s a versatile, year-round sipper that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. So next time you’re looking to shake things up, give this Strawberry Basil Rye Smash a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Table of content
What is in a Strawberry Basil Rye Smash? Tools you will need to make a Strawberry Basil Rye Smash Related Berry & Brine Products You may also like Watch how the Strawberry Basil Rye Smash is made! Ingredients Directions Products used in the Strawberry Basil Rye Smash Pair the Strawberry Basil Rye Smash with:
What is in a Strawberry Basil Rye Smash?
Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey brings a bold, spicy flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and herbal notes in this cocktail. Choose a good-quality rye with a smooth finish—something you’d enjoy sipping on its own.
Strawberry Basil Jam
Our Berry & Brine Strawberry Basil Jam is the star of this cocktail. It’s loaded with whole chunks of ripe strawberries and fresh basil, adding a sweet, fruity depth with a hint of herbal freshness. This jam eliminates the need for fresh fruit, making it super convenient.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the jam and the boldness of the rye. Freshly squeezed is always best for that sharp, fresh flavour, but bottled works if you’re in a pinch.
Basil Leaves
Basil leaves enhance the herbal notes from the jam and add a fresh, aromatic quality to the cocktail. Go for fresh, vibrant leaves—bruised or wilted basil won’t pack the same punch.
Soda Water
Soda water lightens up the cocktail, adding a refreshing fizz that makes it a perfect sipper. Use plain soda water to let the other flavours shine, but you could experiment with flavoured sparkling water for a twist.
Tools you will need to make a Strawberry Basil Rye Smash
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Cocktail glass
- Bar spoon
- Ice
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Related Berry & Brine Products
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[RECIPE] Strawberry Basil Rye Smash
A refreshing cocktail with rye whiskey, strawberry basil jam, and fresh lemon. Perfect for any season!
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz rye whiskey
- 1.5 tablespoons Berry & Brine Strawberry Basil Jam
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- 2 oz soda water
Directions
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the basil leaves to release their aromatic oils. This step is key to infusing the cocktail with that fresh basil flavor.
Spoon in the strawberry basil jam and pour in the lemon juice. Give it a good stir with a bar spoon to mix everything together.
Add the rye whiskey to the shaker, then fill it with ice. Shake well until the mixture is chilled and combined.
Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled with ice, leaving room for the soda water.
Gently pour soda water over the top of the cocktail. Give it a light stir to mix, but not so much that you lose the bubbles.
f you like, garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a slice of lemon. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Basil Rye Smash!
This Strawberry Basil Rye Smash is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and herbal flavours. It’s a refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail that’s great for any gathering or just unwinding after a long day.
Products used in the Strawberry Basil Rye Smash
Can I use other herbs besides basil in the Strawberry Smash?
Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or rosemary for a different flavor profile. However, basil provides a fresh, slightly peppery taste that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. If you want to maintain the intended flavor balance, basil is the best choice, but feel free to get creative and try different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Strawberry Basil Smash?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the alcohol with a splash of sparkling water or a lemon-lime soda. You can also add a bit of Berry & Brine’s house-made strawberry preserves for extra sweetness and flavor. This makes the drink just as refreshing and perfect for all ages to enjoy during summer gatherings.
Can I prepare the Strawberry Basil Smash ahead of time?
While the drink is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the strawberries and basil, you can prepare the muddled strawberry and basil mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add the alcohol and ice just before serving. This allows you to save time while still offering a refreshing and flavorful cocktail for your guests.
