Summer Berry Smash Recipe

Wash and prep

Rinse strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries under cool water. Hull and quarter the strawberries; leave raspberries and blueberries whole. Pat dry gently with a clean towel or paper towel.

Muddle berries and mint

Place the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, 8 mint leaves, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and orange juice into a large mixing bowl or cocktail shaker. Using a sturdy muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently muddle the mixture 10–15 times until the strawberries are broken down and juices are released but some texture remains. Taste and add honey/agave and vanilla extract if using; stir to combine.

Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes at room temperature to macerate, allowing the flavors to meld and the sugar to dissolve further.

Strain (optional)

If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the muddled mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing on solids with the back of a spoon to extract more juice. Reserve the solids to add to individual glasses for texture if desired.

Add crushed ice to the pitcher (about 1 to 2 cups depending on how chilled you want the drink) and pour in chilled club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine so you don't flatten the bubbles.

If not straining, transfer the entire muddled mixture (including fruit pieces) to a pitcher, add crushed ice and sparkling water, and stir gently.

Divide the smash into 4 serving glasses filled halfway with crushed ice. Spoon some whole berry pieces into each glass if you reserved them.

Top each glass with extra club soda if needed to reach the rim, then garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint. Optionally, give each glass a light stir right before serving.

Serve immediately. For a boozy version, add 1–1.5 oz (30–45 ml) light rum, vodka, or gin per glass before adding soda.