This Fig Bourbon Smash is a tasty drink that combines sweet figs with smooth bourbon and a hint of mint. It’s easy to mix and perfect for a fun night out or a cozy gathering!
I love how refreshing this cocktail is, especially with the mint. Just muddle the figs and mint, add bourbon, and shake it up! Cheers to simple yet fancy drinks! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: The star of this cocktail! If you don’t have bourbon, you could use rye whiskey for a spicier flavor, or even a light rum for something different.
Figs: Fresh figs add sweetness and texture. If figs aren’t in season, try substituting with muddled berries like raspberries or blackberries. They’ll give a nice fruity taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the drink. If you need a substitute, lime juice can work, but it will change the flavor slightly. I always prefer fresh juice over bottled!
Simple Syrup: This is just sugar dissolved in water. You can replace it with honey or agave syrup if you want a different sweetness. Just remember to adjust based on how sweet you like your drink!
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint gives a refreshing aroma. If you’re out of mint, you can try basil or even lemon balm as alternatives, though they will alter the flavor a bit.
How Do You Properly Muddle Ingredients for a Great Cocktail?
Muddling is key to releasing flavors in cocktails. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon. The goal is to gently crush the ingredients, not pulverize them completely.
- Muddle the figs and mint together in the shaker for about 10-15 seconds. You want to see juices but still have some texture.
- Don’t over-muddle; this helps keep the fresh taste without turning it into mush.
Keep this technique in mind, and your Fig Bourbon Smash will pack a punch of flavor every time!
Fig Bourbon Smash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3-4 fresh ripe figs (plus extra for garnish)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Crushed ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick mix and shake, perfect for when you need a refreshing drink in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Ingredients:
Start by cutting 3-4 fresh figs into quarters. In a cocktail shaker, add the quartered figs and fresh mint leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the figs and mint together. You want to release the juices and oils without making a mushy mix. Just about 10-15 seconds of gentle pressing should do the trick!
2. Mix the Cocktail:
Next, pour in the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker. Add some ice to the shaker (enough to fill it about halfway). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the mix is well chilled and combined!
3. Prepare the Glass:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. This will help keep your drink nice and cold. Strain the cocktail into the glass using a fine mesh strainer, pressing the muddled fruit through the strainer for maximum delicious flavor.
4. Garnish and Serve:
To finish off, garnish your Fig Bourbon Smash with a halved fig and a sprig of fresh mint on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing, fruity cocktail!
Cheers to enjoying your homemade Fig Bourbon Smash! It’s perfect for a cozy evening or a fun gathering with friends!
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
While fresh figs are preferred for their sweetness and texture, you can use dried figs if needed. Soak the dried figs in warm water or a bit of bourbon for about 30 minutes to soften them before muddling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktails?
Cocktails are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the mixture (without ice) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a good shake before serving again, and add fresh ice!
Can I Make This Cocktail Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative. Add a few extra figs for sweetness if desired!
How Many Servings Does This Recipe Make?
This recipe makes one serving, but it’s easily scalable! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, and mix in batches if you’re serving friends.