This Fig Bourbon Smash is a fun and tasty drink that mixes sweet figs with smooth bourbon. It’s refreshing and perfect for sipping on a warm day!
Every time I make this, I feel like a fancy bartender. Just muddle some figs, add bourbon and a splash of lemon—easy-peasy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love serving it over ice with a sprig of mint on top. It always impresses my friends and keeps the conversation flowing. Cheers to good times!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: Ripe figs are sweet and flavorful, perfect for this drink. If figs aren’t available, you could substitute with mashed blackberries or raspberries for a similar fruitiness.
Bourbon: Use your favorite bourbon for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try substituting with whiskey or a mild rum, though the taste will change a bit.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always go for fresh lemon juice for the best taste. In a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh really makes a difference!
Simple Syrup: Adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you’d rather avoid sugar, honey or agave syrup work well as alternatives.
Club Soda: This adds a nice fizz. If you want something more flavorful, try using ginger ale or flavored sparkling water.
How Do I Muddle Figs Properly?
Muddling is key to extracting the sweet juices from the figs. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place the fig quarters in a cocktail shaker.
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon and press down gently, twisting to break the figs apart.
- Aim to create a pulpy mixture without crushing too hard – you want juice, not mush!
When muddled correctly, the figs should release their delicious sweetness, making your drink even better!
How to Make a Fig Bourbon Smash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 fresh ripe figs, plus extra slices for garnish
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Club soda or sparkling water, for topping
- Crushed ice
- Fresh mint sprig and edible flowers (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fig Bourbon Smash takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for sipping on a warm afternoon or impressing friends at a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Figs:
Start by cutting the 2 fresh figs into quarters. This will make them easier to muddle and will release more delicious juice.
2. Muddle the Figs:
In a cocktail shaker, add the quartered figs. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press down and twist on the figs until they release their juices. Muddling properly is key to packing flavor into your drink!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
Next, add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker with the muddled figs. Give it a quick stir to combine the ingredients.
4. Shake it Up:
Add ice to the shaker, filling it about halfway. Put the lid on and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—this is what gives your drink that refreshing chill!
5. Prepare Your Glass:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice to keep your drink nice and cold.
6. Strain and Pour:
Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the cocktail mixture into the glass over the crushed ice. This will help catch any fig seeds and pulp, leaving you with a smooth drink.
7. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling water for that refreshing fizz. It’s what makes this drink so lively!
8. Garnish:
For a beautiful touch, garnish with a slice of fig, a sprig of fresh mint, and, if you have any, some edible flowers to make it pop.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Fig Bourbon Smash immediately and enjoy this delightful blend of flavors. Cheers!
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
While fresh figs are preferred for their sweetness and juiciness, you can use dried figs as a substitute. Just soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate before muddling them. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the sweetness.
What If I Don’t Have Simple Syrup?
No worries! You can easily make your own simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water. Just mix 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Alternatively, you can use honey or agave syrup as a sweetener.
How Do I Store Leftover Cocktail Mix?
If you have leftover cocktail mix (without ice), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a vigorous shake before serving, and remember not to add ice to it until just before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe in Larger Batches?
Absolutely! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Just remember to muddle the figs in batches if you’re making a big pitcher, making sure all the flavors blend well before serving over ice.