The Blueberry Crush is one of those cocktails that’s as fun to look at as it is to sip. It’s fruity, crisp, and just the right balance of sweet and zesty. You get the bold flavor of fresh blueberries, a splash of lime, cooling mint, and a bubbly finish from club soda. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or serving guests on a warm evening, this drink always hits the spot.
Blueberry Crush
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio—light, refreshing, and easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass type: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– Fresh blueberries: ½ cup (75g)
– Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30ml)
– Simple syrup: 1 oz (30ml) — or use agave or honey for a natural touch
– Vodka: 2 oz (60ml) — or swap with gin for a botanical twist
– Fresh mint leaves: A small handful (about 8–10 leaves)
– Club soda: Enough to top off (about 2–3 oz / 60–90ml)
– Ice cubes: As needed
– Garnish: Extra blueberries and a mint sprig
Method
- In a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the blueberries and mint together. Press firmly to release the juices and oils—but don’t shred the mint into bits.
- Add the lime juice, simple syrup, and vodka to the muddled mix.
- Fill the shaker with ice. Shake well for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your highball glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass. You can double strain if you prefer fewer bits of fruit and mint.
- Top with club soda to your liking and give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint for that extra pop.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible—especially the mint and lime. They really make a difference in flavor.
- Muddle gently but thoroughly. You’re looking to release the juices, not pulverize the mint.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
- Make your own simple syrup: Just heat equal parts sugar and water until dissolved. Cool before using.
Make Ahead & Storage
– You can prep the blueberry-mint mixture a few hours ahead. Store it in the fridge and shake it up with the rest of the ingredients when you’re ready.
– Leftover simple syrup keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– If you’re making a pitcher for a group, just scale up the ingredients and stir everything together (except the club soda) in a large pitcher. Add club soda right before serving to keep it fizzy.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, summery bites. Here are a few of my favorites:
Cheese Platter
Try it with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The tangy and sweet notes from the drink cut through the richness perfectly.
Grilled Chicken
A simple grilled chicken breast with herbs works really well. The charred edges and savory flavors balance out the sweetness in the cocktail.
Fruit Salad
A bowl of mixed berries or melon makes a great sidekick and keeps things light and fresh.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned: if your blueberries aren’t super ripe, add just a tiny pinch of salt to the muddle—it brings out more flavor without making the drink salty.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try one of these fun spins:
Blueberry Mojito
– Use white rum instead of vodka.
– Keep everything else the same.
– It leans more tropical and has that classic mojito twist.
Blueberry Gin Fizz
– Replace vodka with gin.
– Use tonic water instead of club soda.
– This version is a little more herbal and bubbly.
Blueberry Lemonade Crush
– Use lemon juice instead of lime.
– Swap club soda for lemonade.
– It’s a bit sweeter and more citrusy—great for afternoon sipping.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Skip the vodka.
– Add a splash of cranberry juice or pomegranate juice for depth.
– Top with sparkling water or lemonade.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Thaw them first for easier muddling. They work great when fresh ones aren’t in season.
What kind of mint is best?
Spearmint is the most common and gives a nice, clean flavor. Avoid peppermint—it can overpower the drink.
Can I make it less sweet?
Absolutely. Cut back on the simple syrup or use a natural sweetener like agave, which is less cloying.
Is this drink just for summer?
It’s perfect for warm weather, but you can enjoy it year-round. Just use frozen berries if fresh ones are out of season.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and combine everything (except the club soda) in a pitcher. Add ice and soda right before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Blueberry Crush is one of those easygoing cocktails that never disappoints. It’s quick to make, looks beautiful in the glass, and tastes like a burst of sunshine. Whether you’re mixing up one for yourself or a whole pitcher for friends, it’s a drink that feels a little special every time.
Try it out, tweak it to your taste, and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Cheers!
