Refreshing Lemon Blackberry Smash Cocktail

This blackberry lemon smash cocktail is a refreshing beverage that combines the tangy taste of lemons with the sweet flavor of ripe blackberries. 

Its vibrant purple color makes it visually appealing, especially with the garnish of a lemon slice and a few whole blackberries. When you take a sip, you’ll experience a delightful burst of fruity flavors that blend together perfectly.

Why You’ll Love It

This blackberry lemon smash is an incredible flavor combination. With the warm weather, a refreshing fruity cocktail is the perfect addition to an afternoon or evening sitting on the back porch after a long day. I don’t know if there is anything better on a hot summer day. Honestly, it is good any time of the year. 

• Perfect blend of tart lemons and the sweetness of the blackberries
• Beautiful purple color and appealing garnishes
• Refreshing and satisfying taste
• Burst of fruity flavors with every sip
• Easy to make

Simple Ingredients

• Juicy blackberries
• Simple syrup
• Fresh lemon juice
• White rum
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedges (or lime wedges)
• Mint sprig

How to Make Blackberry Smash Recipe

• Add the sweet blackberries, simple syrup, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker. Use a wooden spoon, or a muddler, to smash the blackberries and release the juice.
• Add the ice cubes and rum to the shaker. Add the lid to the shaker and shake vigorously for 45-60 seconds.
• Strain the blackberry cocktail into 2 old fashion style glasses. Add more ice, and garnish with a lemon or lime and mint leaves. Serve immediately.

Variation to the Blackberry Smash Cocktail

This cocktail will make 2 old fashion glasses. However, you can also make this one drink by pouring it into a highball glass. 

• Blackberry Syrup: Instead of the basic simple syrup, make blackberry syrup. It is made the same way, except add fresh blackberries to the water/sugar solution in a small saucepan. Strain before using. 
• Vodka Twist: Incorporate 1-2 ounces of vodka into the cocktail shaker with the muddled blackberries and lemon juice. Add the vodka together with the rum or in place of. If adding it to the rum, use 1 ounce of vodka and 1 ounce of rum. This will make a stronger drink. You can also make a blackberry bourbon smash using your favorite bourbon or bourbon whiskey smash using different alcohols. 
• Ginger Beer Twist: Replace the alcohol with ginger beer for a spicy kick and extra depth of flavor. Or use ginger ale as the drink topper. 
• Adjust Sweetness: Since the rum is neutral in flavor, you may need to adjust the sweetness level accordingly by adding more simple syrup if desired.
• Sparkling Splash: Top it off with a splash of sparkling water or a splash of club soda for some fizz.
• Berry Blend: Experiment with seasonal fruit, like different fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries to change up the flavor profile.
• Herbal Infusion: Infuse the cocktail with fresh herbs like basil leaves or thyme for a unique twist.
• Limey Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice to create a tangy and refreshing variation of the Blackberry Smash.

Tips and Tricks for Blackberry Lemon Smash

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, ripe blackberries and lemons for the best flavor.
• Muddle Carefully: When muddling the blackberries and lemon, be gentle to release the flavors without making the drink too pulpy.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your blackberries, you may need to adjust the amount of sweetener added.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Get creative with garnishes like lemon slices, blackberry skewers, or even a sprig of fresh mint to enhance the presentation and flavor.
• Play with Ratios: Don’t be afraid to adjust the ratio of blackberries to lemon juice to find the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
• Chill Ingredients: For an extra refreshing drink, chill your blackberries, lemons, and glassware before making the cocktail.
• Add Ice Wisely: Use enough ice to chill the drink without diluting it too much, or consider using larger ice cubes to melt more slowly.
• Serve Immediately: Blackberry Lemon Smash is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it as soon as it’s mixed to preserve its vibrant flavors.

FAQs for This Easy Cocktail Recipe

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh ones? 

Yes, frozen blackberries can be used in place of fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them before muddling to ensure they release their flavor properly and do not water down the cocktail.

Can I make a large batch of Blackberry Lemon Smash in advance? 

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare a larger batch of the base mixture (blackberries, lemon juice, and simple syrup) in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply combine with ice and add rum before straining into glasses. For convenience, use a large pitcher. 

Can I substitute rum with another type of alcohol? 

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of alcohol like gin or tequila to create your unique twist on the Blackberry Lemon Smash.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail? 

Yes, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the alcohol and using sparkling water or lemon-lime soda instead. Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more or less simple syrup.

More Delicious Cocktail Recipes

• Easy Blackberry Margaritas
• Queen of Hearts Cocktail
• Ginger Sage Brunch Cocktail
• How to Make a Gin Basil Smash Cocktail
• Strawberry Limeade Cocktail