The Forbidden Fruit cocktail is a bright, citrusy drink with a hint of sweetness, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion. It’s simple to make yet feels sophisticated, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or serving at a gathering. I’ve made this countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let’s walk through how to make it, along with a few fun variations to try!
Forbidden Fruit
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) triple sec
- 0.5 oz (15ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Ice
For serving:
- Lemon twist (optional, for garnish)
- Chilled coupe or martini glass
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, triple sec, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon, if you’d like.
This drink has just the right balance of sweet and tart, with a smooth, citrusy finish.
Tips for the Best Forbidden Fruit
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
- Shake, don’t stir. Shaking blends the ingredients better and adds a slight frothiness.
If you find it a little too sweet, try adding a dash more lemon juice. Prefer a stronger drink? Go for a slightly heavier pour of gin.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh, but if you’re mixing for a party, you can prepare a larger batch in advance. Simply mix the gin, triple sec, and lemon juice in a sealed bottle and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shake with ice and strain into glasses.
Fun Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ways to put a twist on the Forbidden Fruit:
Berry Bliss – Muddle a handful of fresh berries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a fruity, slightly tart version.
Tropical Temptation – Swap the gin for white rum and add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical spin.
Enchanted Orchard – Use apple brandy instead of gin for a deeper, slightly spiced flavor, perfect for fall.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the gin and triple sec with equal parts orange juice and lemon-lime soda.
Perfect Food Pairings
The citrusy notes in this cocktail make it a great match for:
- Spicy tapas – The sweetness balances out the heat.
- Grilled chicken – The smoky, charred flavors pair well with the bright citrus.
- Dark chocolate – A rich, bittersweet contrast to the drink’s tangy sweetness.
I love serving this drink with a small plate of dark chocolate—it’s an easy way to elevate the experience.
Common Questions
Can I use vodka instead of gin?
Yes! Vodka will give the drink a smoother, more neutral taste.
What’s the best way to get a clear, crisp flavor?
Use high-quality spirits and fresh lemon juice—it makes all the difference.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Shake with ice before serving.
Is this a good cocktail for all seasons?
Definitely. It’s refreshing in summer but also works well in colder months as a citrusy pick-me-up.
This cocktail is one of my go-to drinks when I want something simple yet elegant. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with a variation, it’s a great way to enjoy a refreshing, well-balanced cocktail. Cheers! 🍸
