Sweet, citrusy and ultra refreshing --- this strawberry-basil Tom Collins puts a unique, sophisticated spin on a classic gin cocktail. With its dainty pink hue, garden-fresh basil and ripe strawberries, this oh-so-pretty Tom Collins is full of summer's best flavors and always sure to impress. Bring on happy hour because you and your friends will love sipping this cocktail on warm summer nights.
Jump to:
Summer may be winding down, but that doesn't mean we need to put away our refreshing cocktail recipes. If anything, now is the time to go full force with our summer cocktails, especially those with fresh herbs.
Right now, I have so much basil growing in my garden that I can't think of a better way to celebrate summer than with a fresh herbed cocktail in hand. What's a summer celebration without a cocktail or two, right?
Some people are already turning their sights to fall, but this lady is all about embracing summer cocktails until the last moment of the season. Who else is with me?
How to Make Strawberry-Basil Simple Syrup
Before we start on the rest of our Tom Collins cocktail, we need to make the strawberry-basil simple syrup. Like its namesake, this process couldn't be simpler.
We throw equal parts of water and sugar in a pot, add lots of strawberries and fresh basil and then bring them all to a high simmer. At that point, we turn off the heat and let the mixture steep. I also like to gently muddle the syrup to get all that delicious flavor from the strawberries and basil.
Now we strain and refrigerate to chill. If you're a procrastinator or in need of a last-minute cocktail, you can use this strawberry-basil simple syrup immediately, but make sure you have plenty of ice to cool completely.
I generally recommend making simple syrup ahead of time, but I've definitely been in a pinch where I had to make it on the spot. The syrup is still delicious and works well --- just a bit warmer than ideal. But, you know, life happens, and we don't want to let that stop us from making this delicious strawberry-basil Tom Collins.
Along with this Tom Collins, you can also add this strawberry-basil simple syrup to so many drinks. Give it a try in a margarita or jazz up your vodka and soda with this simple syrup. A strawberry-basil flavored Moscow mule would be delicious as well. If you need a nonalcoholic version, it's also great in lemon-lime soda, ginger ale or your favorite flavored sparkling water.
Step-by-Step Instructions
With our strawberry-basil simple syrup ready, we can start on the rest of our cocktail, which is even easier to make than the simple syrup.
Let's first grab a highball or Collins glass and toss in our simple syrup, gin, fresh lemon juice and ice. Give it a stir and then add some club soda. Once again, stir but be gentle to make sure we don't agitate our club soda.
Now we garnish our fancy Tom Collins with a fresh strawberry and basil leaves, kick back and enjoy this summery cocktail, preferably on a warm patio.
Perfect Pairing
With the sweet strawberry notes, I love pairing this Tom Collins with a dessert. Specifically, a vanilla custard, like an ice cream or pudding, is perfect. Even a cream anglaise with berries is a tasty partner.
Gin is such a complex liquor that I like to keep the food pairing simple and clean. The vanilla allows the gin to shine while offering the perfect sweetness to the strawberry-basil syrup.
When you need a refreshing summer cocktail in your life, I hope you try this strawberry-basil Tom Collins. I’m sure you’ll love this unique spin on a classic cocktail. Please let me know how you enjoyed this strawberry-basil Tom Collins recipe in the comment section and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter. You can also catch me on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.
Cheers!
Love Summer Cocktails?
- Grapefruit gin mule
- Cucumber-lavender gin fizz
- Coconut-watermelon mojito
- Strawberry mint julep
- Jalapeno-mango margarita
- Peach-maple bourbon smash
Strawberry-Basil Tom Collins
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Strainer
- Jigger or small measuring cup
Ingredients
Strawberry-Basil Simple Syrup
- 2 cups strawberries halved and tops removed
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Strawberry-Basil Tom Collins
- 2 ounces gin see note
- 1 ounce strawberry-basil simple syrup
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Ice
- Club soda for topping
- Fresh strawberries for garnish, optional
- Fresh basil for garnish, optional
Instructions
Strawberry-Basil Simple Syrup
- Simmer the strawberries, sugar, water and basil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar and mash the strawberries as the syrup cooks to help incorporate the strawberry flavor. As soon as the sugar dissolves, remove from heat. Steep for at least 10 minutes or until the flavor infuses. Strain and store in the refrigerator until chilled. This can be done several weeks in advance.
Strawberry-Basil Tom Collins
- In a highball or Collins glass, pour in the gin, strawberry-basil simple syrup, lemon juice and a handful of ice. Stir until well combined. Top with club soda and gently stir.
- If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries and basil. Enjoy!
Notes
- While you can use any gin of your liking, I especially love a citrus-forward gin with this recipe.
- Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
Jenni LeBaron says
The fella and I were just talking about how we've never tried a Tom Collins before but we both really want to and this just looks like the perfect way to introduce it. That strawberry basil simple syrup is calling my name!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Well, now is the perfect time! It's so refreshing -- I'm sure you both will love it.
Jacqui Debono says
Strawberry and basil is my favourite combination for drinks! I grow my own of both too, so this is one I could do straight from the garden. Perfect!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Right? They're so good together!
Mirlene says
I don't recall making collins at home, so really happy I have stumbled upon your recipe. I will only need to get a few ingredients missing, and I am good to go. Can't wait!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Yay! Hope it's a hit!
Jeannette (Jay Joy) says
I don't even know how this strawberry-basil will taste with gin. However, if it tastes anything as it looks I know everyone will love it.
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
They're both super delicious with gin! It's a great combo.
Cheese Curd In Paradise says
This drink is right up my ally! I love the combination of strawberry and basil in drinks. This sounds refreshing and delicious!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
This is definitely perfect for you! Hope you love it.
Leanne @ Crumb Top Baking says
Back in my university days, I used to enjoy a Tom Collins every now and then. This pretty cocktail reminds me that I haven't had one in years. Love the strawberry basil combo. Perhaps I'll mix one up this weekend! 😉
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Sounds like a good time to revisit a classic! ?
Cathleen @ A Taste of Madness says
Can you believe that I have never made my own cocktail??? This will save me a TON of money. Thanks for the recipe!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Ohhh, it's definitely a good money saver! Once you figure out the proportions you like, it becomes super easy to create your own concoctions too, so I think it's a fun, creative outlet. Cheers!
Renu says
That looks so so refreshing. Strawberry and basil a wonderful combination. Would love to try it out.
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
I hope you try it!
Erika says
This drink is so pretty! I love a good cocktail and can't wait to give this one a try!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Thanks, Erika! I think you'll love it!
Lesli Schwartz says
Wow! This is a fantastic throw-back drink! I don't think I've had a Tom Collins in 15 years, but your's is so appealing! Can't wait to try this one!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
It really is time for the Tom Collins to make a comeback. It's such a refreshing drink. Hope you love it!
Linda says
I've never thought of adding basil to my drinks but this sounds refreshingly good. And love the color of this drink, too.
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
It's such nice counterpart to the sweet strawberries!
Kelly Anthony says
I'm with you on enjoying every bit of summer. This strawberry basil tom collins will make the perfect cocktail for happy hour with my girlfriends.
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
It'd definitely be perfect for that!
Jere Cassidy says
I love the flavor combo of strawberry and basil, never thought of making syrup. What a great drink for summer.
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
For sure! It's super refreshing.
Stine Mari says
Yes please! I love the strawberry basil combination, so summery and perfectly herby. This cocktail looks fantastic!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Thank you! It really is such a lovely summer combo. ?
Chelsey says
This is such a lovely and colorful drink! I love the combination of strawberries and basil - so refreshing and perfect for summer!
Amanda McGrory-Dixon says
Thanks, Chelsey! I especially love the color for summer. Hope you enjoy!