Summer Berry Smash Recipe

Prepare Fruit

Rinse all berries and drain well. Hull and quarter the strawberries; leave blueberries and raspberries whole.

Macerate

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Using a wooden spoon or a sturdy fork, gently muddle the berries until juices begin to release but some berry texture remains (about 30–45 seconds).

Add Herbs & Sweetener

Lightly bruise the mint leaves between your fingers to release aroma, then finely chop and add to the macerated berries. Stir in the honey (or simple syrup) until combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity by adding up to 1 additional tablespoon of honey or a squeeze more lemon if desired.

Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to meld flavors. If preparing ahead, cover and chill up to 2 hours; bring back to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving so the honey mixes easily.

Prepare Glasses

Place about 1/3 cup crushed ice into each of four serving glasses (adjust by glass size). Spoon about 3–4 tablespoons of the berry mixture over the ice in each glass, including some of the juices.

Top & Finish

For non-alcoholic: divide the chilled sparkling water between the glasses (about 1/2 cup per glass). For an adult version: add roughly 3/4 tablespoon (about 11 ml) of vodka or gin to each glass before adding sparkling water. Gently stir once to combine, being careful not to completely flatten the sparkle.

Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately with a spoon and straw so guests can scoop the smashed berries as they drink.