Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash

Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash is the perfect summer cocktail. Juicy strawberries and fresh basil are the perfect pair in this recipe!

This week flew by. The month flew by actually. How is May almost over?!

My kids’ last day of school is next week and I’m gonna be real honest with you, I have no clue where they’re going to school next year. Like, I don’t even know what state they’re to go to school in. That’s where my life is right now.

So the end of the school year is exciting because you know I love summer and all the fun that comes along with it but it’s also super stressful because… I really just need someone to figure out my entire life for me so I don’t have to make any more decisions.

That’d be great.

What Is a Smash?

Honestly? I have no idea why a smash is called a smash. All you really need to know about smashes is that they’re always going on have a spirit (usually bourbon but sometimes whiskey, gin, brandy, or even rum), sugar, an herb, and seasonal fruit. 

Oh, and ice. I’ve seen a lot of definitions say that a smash must have “small ice” or even shaved ice.

Smashes are great way to celebrate seasonal foods because you really can use whatever fruits and herbs are in season. Just muddle it all together with some sugar and top it with your spirit of choice and maybe a splash of seltzer. That’s all you need for a smash!

How To Make Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash!

• Using a muddler, mash strawberries, simple syrup, fresh basil, and lemon juice in a cocktail glass until the strawberries release most of their juice
• Add bourbon and ice; stir to combine
• Top with sparkling water
• Enjoy immediately

Can You Double The Recipe?

Since the fruit has to be muddled in the bottom of each glass, you can’t really double this recipe. It’s easiest just to make them one by one to ensure that each glass gets the perfect amount of strawberries, basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup. 

Can You Make It Ahead?

No, this is one cocktail recipe that needs to be made fresh. 

What Kind of Bourbon Should I Use?

Whatever kind you want! Bulleit is our go to bourbon because it’s a decent price and still really great quality. 

You can even use whiskey if you already have some in your house. It will just be a Whiskey Smash instead of a Bourbon Smash!

More Bourbon Cocktail Recipes

• Raspberry Bourbon Smash
• Grapefruit-Ginger Bourbon Sour
• Bourbon Apple Sidecar
• Lemonade Spritzer

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