Basil Tom Collins
If you love gin and want a refreshing, easy cocktail to unwind after a long day, let me introduce you to the Basil Tom Collins. This twist on the classic cocktail adds basil to the zesty lemon and fizzy soda of a Tom Collins. It gives it a fresh herbal upgrade. The result? A bright, crisp drink that tastes like relaxation in a glass.
What is a Tom Collins?
A Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail that’s been around since the 19th century. It’s traditionally made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, typically served in a tall glass over ice. Think of it as a slightly fizzy, more complex lemonade with the refreshing kick of gin. It’s light, tangy, and perfect for sipping on a warm evening or after a stressful day at work.
In this recipe we are taking a classic Tom Collins and making it more exciting, by adding basil to the mix. Basil and gin are a match made in cocktail heaven. When you take your first sip you’ll notice the herb’s subtle peppery flavor pairs beautifully with the gin, while the lemon and soda keep things refreshing and light.
Ingredient Notes
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients needed for this Tom Collins recipe and a few tips for getting the most out of them:
Gin:
Go with a gin you like. Seventh Heaven gin is a safe bet for its clean, crisp flavor, but floral or herbal gins can add a fun twist when paired with basil.
Fresh Basil Leaves or Fresh Herbs:
Fresh, large basil leaves are essential for that peppery, aromatic kick. Skip dried basil—it won’t have the same flavor.
Simple Syrup:
Homemade is best! Mix equal parts sugar and hot water (e.g. 1 cup of each). Store in the fridge for up to a week. You can even infuse it with basil for extra flavor. You can also purchase simple syrup from almost any grocery store.
Lemon and Lime Juice:
Use fresh juice for the best taste. Lemon adds brightness, while lime brings a slight bitterness that complements the basil. If you only have one, you can swap in just lemon or lime, but both give it the best balance.
Soda Water/Club Soda/Lemon-Lime Soda:
This is what gives the Basil Gin Tom Collins its signature fizz. Stick with plain soda water or sparkling water. It adds effervescence without adding flavor, letting the gin, basil, and citrus shine.
Cucumber (for garnish):
The cucumber adds a refreshing aroma and visual appeal. Cut thick spears for the glass or use a peeler to create thin ribbons for a swirl effect. English cucumbers are ideal for their edible skin, but any variety works.
Equipment You’ll Need
Making a Tom Collins cocktail with Basil is simple, but having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Cocktail Shaker
A cocktail shaker is key for mixing and chilling the ingredients. If you don’t have one, a mason jar with a lid can work in a pinch.
2. Muddler
You’ll need a muddler to crush the basil leaves and release their flavor. If you don’t have a muddler, use the back of a wooden spoon to get the job done.
3. Strainer
A fine mesh strainer or the one built into your shaker will help keep any stray basil leaves out of your drink when you pour.
4. Jigger
A jigger helps you measure your liquids accurately. If you don’t have one, use a tablespoon—1 tablespoon is about 15ml or 1 oz gin.
5. Collins Glass (or Large Rocks Glass / Highball Glass)
This tall, narrow glass is perfect for this fizzy drink. A large rocks glass works too if that’s what you’ve got.
6. Bar Spoon or Chop stick
If you’re going for the cucumber swirl effect, use a bar spoon or chopstick to help position the cucumber slice against the side of the glass to make the perfect drink.
How to Make a Basil Collins
This cocktail comes together in 5 minutes, so you don’t have to wait long to enjoy this delicious cocktail. Here’s everything you need to know for the best results.
Step 1: Prepare the Garnish
Cut a cucumber into thick spears about 1 inch taller than your glass. For a fancier touch, use a peeler or mandoline to create thin slices and place them against the inside of the glass for a swirl effect.
Step 2: Prep the Glass
Take a Collins or large rocks glass. Place the cucumber garnish inside, swirling it if you’ve used a thin slice. Add ice cubes to help hold the cucumber in place.
Step 3: Muddle the Basil
In a mixing glass or shaker, muddle the large basil leaves with the simple syrup to release the basil’s oils.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Add fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, gin to the shaker. Add plenty of ice and shake for 30 seconds to chill.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass. Top with soda water, stir gently, and enjoy!
Find the measurements and full recipe below in the recipe card!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Basil Tom Collins
- Prep Time: 5
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1
- Category: Drinks
Description
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 oz (36ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) simple syrup
- 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- 3–4 large basil leaves
- 3 oz (90ml) soda water
- Garnish: Spear or thin slice of English cucumber (or other edible skin cucumber)
Instructions
Prepare the garnish:
- Cut into thick spears about 1”/2.5cm taller than your glass.
- Use a peeler (or mandoline) to thinly slice the cucumber lengthwise.
- Add ice cubes to a collins or large rocks glass.
- Add the cucumber garnish. If aiming for a swirl of cucumber against the side of the glass, place the cucumber in first – use a chop stick or bar spoon to help position it before adding the ice.
For the Cocktail:
- In a mixing glass, muddle the basil leaves with the simple syrup.
- Add the lemon juice, lime juice, and gin.
- Add ice and shake for 30 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Top with soda water and serve.
Notes
Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup/200g granulated sugar with 1 cup/235ml hot water. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week.