Cool, crisp, and incredibly refreshing—this Cucumber Crush cocktail is one of my go-to drinks for warm days. It’s light, slightly sweet, and packed with fresh cucumber flavor, balanced by a hint of citrus and a bubbly finish. Whether you’re lounging on the patio or hosting friends, this cocktail is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Cucumber Crush
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin or vodka – Both work well, but gin adds a lovely botanical note.
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed is best for bright, zesty flavor.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup – Adjust to taste for sweetness.
- 3-4 cucumber slices – Thinly sliced for easy muddling.
- Soda water – To top off the drink with a refreshing fizz.
Glass: A highball glass is ideal since it gives the soda room to mix with the other ingredients, but a mason jar works for a fun, casual feel.
How to Make a Cucumber Crush
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices well to release their fresh juice.
- Add the gin or vodka, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with soda water and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice or a sprig of mint for extra freshness.
Tip: The better you muddle the cucumber, the more flavor you’ll get in your drink. Press firmly with a muddler or the back of a spoon.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can mix the cucumber, lime juice, and simple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just shake with ice and add soda when ready to serve.
- Leftovers? This cocktail is best fresh, but if you have extra, strain out the ice and store it (without soda) in the fridge for up to a day.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists:
- Spicy Cucumber Crush: Muddle a few jalapeño slices with the cucumber for a little heat.
- Herbal Cucumber Crush: Add fresh basil or mint while muddling for a fragrant touch.
- Elderflower Cucumber Crush: Swap simple syrup for elderflower syrup to bring in floral notes.
- Tequila Cucumber Crush: Replace gin or vodka with tequila for a more vibrant twist.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the alcohol and use agave syrup instead of simple syrup. Shake with ice, top with soda, and enjoy a refreshing mocktail.
What to Serve with a Cucumber Crush
This cocktail pairs well with light, fresh dishes:
- Crisp salads – A simple garden salad with lemon dressing complements the drink’s freshness.
- Grilled seafood – The citrusy, bubbly quality balances rich fish or shrimp.
- Spicy dishes – A great way to cool down after a bite of something bold, like Thai or Mexican food.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is always best, but bottled works in a pinch. Just go for a high-quality one without added sugar.
How can I make it sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust the simple syrup to taste—start with less, then add more if needed.
What’s the best way to get the most cucumber flavor?
Muddle thoroughly! Press firmly to extract all that fresh juice.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients, mix everything except the soda in a pitcher, and store it in the fridge. When serving, pour over ice and top with soda.
This Cucumber Crush is one of my absolute favorite cocktails—light, crisp, and ridiculously refreshing. Perfect for warm afternoons, backyard gatherings, or just unwinding after a long day. Try it out and let me know your favorite variation! 🍹
