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Refreshing Peach Bourbon Smash Recipe Easy Homemade Basil Cocktail for Summer

peach bourbon smash - featured image

A refreshing summer cocktail combining juicy peaches, smoky bourbon, and fresh basil for a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and herbal flavors. Quick and easy to make, ideal for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium fresh ripe peach, peeled and sliced (about 68 wedges)
  • 2 oz bourbon whiskey (e.g., Bulleit Bourbon)
  • 46 fresh basil leaves, gently torn
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 oz club soda or sparkling water (to top off)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wheel or basil sprig for garnish

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice about one ripe medium peach per cocktail into 6-8 wedges.
  2. In a shaker or mixing glass, add peach slices and 4-6 torn fresh basil leaves. Gently muddle to release juices and aroma without bruising the basil.
  3. Add 2 oz bourbon, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker. Fill halfway with ice cubes.
  4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds or stir gently if using a mixing glass until chilled and well mixed.
  5. Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice cubes. Strain the mixture over the ice, using a fine mesh strainer if desired.
  6. Top with about 2 oz club soda or sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
  7. Garnish with a lemon wheel or a small sprig of basil.

Notes

Use ripe but firm peaches to avoid a too-sweet, syrupy drink. Muddle basil gently to prevent bitterness. Chill glasses ahead for a crisper cocktail. For multiple servings, muddle peaches and basil in a pitcher and add liquids and ice just before serving. Frozen peaches can be used if fresh are unavailable. Variations include swapping bourbon for rye whiskey or peach vodka, or using mint or thyme instead of basil.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach bourbon smash, basil cocktail, summer cocktail, bourbon cocktail, fresh peach drink, easy cocktail recipe, muddled cocktail