Strawberry Basil Vodka Cocktail

Made with vodka (or my fave cucumber mint flavored), fresh muddled strawberries, basil leaves, and a little lemon juice. This basil smash cocktail is for sure to be one of your recurring go-to’s! It tastes like a spiked strawberry lemonade!

You will particularly enjoy this drink if you go for the sweeter, lighter cocktails. I love cocktails using real fruits, like my Spiked Vodka Lemonade with Kiwi or Watermelon & Blueberry Vodka Smash.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Vodka. I love flavored vodka, so I pair my Cucumber-Mint combo with this recipe. Substitute for any flavored vodka or unflavored. Or even try with gin or rum.
• Strawberries. Substitute for your favorite mixed berry option.
• Fresh Basil. Substitute for mint.
• Lemon Juice. You can substitute for lime juice, but it does make this cocktail more tart.
• Simple Syrup. Simple syrup helps add a sweetness to this fruity cocktail. Substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave.

TIP! You can always make your own simple syrup by combining equal parts water and sugar in a small pot on the stove. Simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved and then let cool.

Variations

Want to make a variation of this strawberry basil smash recipe?

• Try topping with club soda, lemonade, ginger beer, kombucha or even prosecco.
• Infuse your own vodka with basil, strawberries, or even lemons.
• Add a shot of limoncello!

Tips, Tricks & Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to muddle fruit and herbs?

Muddling the strawberries and basil in this vodka recipe help release the oils and juice.

What can I use instead of a muddler?

If you don’t have a muddler, use the bottom of a clean, wooden spoon.

Should I strain this cocktail?

I prefer a less pulpy cocktail and therefore strain my cocktail. If you don’t mind it, you can simply muddle the strawberries and let it be.