Cran Basil Smash Recipe
Make Cran Basil Smash Recipe in just 10m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Method
Cocktail
- 1
Muddle aromatics
In a cocktail shaker, place the fresh basil leaves and the optional fresh cranberries. Add the simple syrup. Gently muddle 6–8 times — enough to bruise the basil and crush the cranberries to release oils and juice, but avoid pulverizing into bits.
- 2
Add liquids and egg white (optional)
Add the gin (or vodka), fresh lemon juice, cranberry juice, and the egg white if using. The egg white gives a silky foam; use pasteurized egg white if preferred for safety.
- 3
Dry shake
Seal the shaker and shake vigorously without ice for 10–15 seconds. This emulsifies the egg white and helps build a frothy texture.
- 4
Wet shake
Open the shaker, add the ice cubes, reseal, and shake hard for 12–15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold. This chills and dilutes the cocktail properly.
- 5
Double strain into glass
Prepare a rocks glass with crushed ice. Using both the shaker strainer and a fine mesh strainer, pour the cocktail over the crushed ice to remove basil bits and cranberry seeds for a smooth finish.
- 6
Top and garnish
If desired, top with 1 oz club soda for a lighter texture. Slap the basil sprig between your palms to release its aroma and garnish the drink with the basil sprig and two fresh cranberries skewered or floated on top.
- 7
Serve
Serve immediately with a short straw. Encourage the drinker to give the basil a gentle stir to lift aromatics before sipping.