A Fruit Cup is the ultimate summer refresher—fruity, slightly spiced, and bursting with fresh flavors. It’s a classic British cocktail, often served at garden parties and warm-weather gatherings. Made with gin, lemonade, and plenty of fresh fruit, this drink is as beautiful as it is delicious. I’ve made this countless times for summer get-togethers, and it always disappears fast! Let’s walk through how to make it, along with a few fun variations to try.
Fruit Cup
Ingredients
Makes 1 drink | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 3 oz (90ml) lemonade (or a mix of lemonade and ginger ale for extra fizz)
- A generous handful of fresh fruit (strawberries, cucumber, orange slices, lemon slices, and mint)
- Ice (enough to fill the glass)
How to Make It
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the fruit on top of the ice, layering for a colorful look.
- Pour in the gin.
- Top with lemonade and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve immediately.
Tip: Slap the mint between your hands before garnishing—it helps release its fresh aroma!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This light and refreshing cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – The smoky, savory flavors balance the fruitiness.
- Summer Salads – A crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette mirrors the bright, fresh notes of the drink.
- Cheese Platter – Soft, mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese complement the sweet and tart flavors.
Whenever I serve a Fruit Cup, I love setting out a small bowl of extra fruit so guests can customize their drinks. It makes it feel even more special!
Make It Your Own
The beauty of a Fruit Cup is how easily you can tweak it. Here are some ways to switch things up:
- Swap the gin for vodka if you prefer a smoother taste.
- Try different fruits—peaches, blackberries, or watermelon add a fun twist.
- Adjust the sweetness—use ginger ale instead of lemonade for a spicier kick, or mix both for balance.
Fun Variations
Pimm’s Cup – Swap gin for Pimm’s No. 1, add lemonade, and load up on cucumber and strawberries. A British favorite!
Winter Fruit Cup – Use bourbon instead of gin, swap lemonade for ginger beer, and add apple, pear, and a cinnamon stick for a cozy version.
Tropical Fruit Cup – Use rum, replace lemonade with pineapple juice, and add mango, pineapple, and papaya for a sunny, beachy twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version – Skip the gin and mix lemonade with fresh fruit for a refreshing mocktail.
FAQs & Tips
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes! Frozen fruit keeps the drink extra cold but may water it down as it melts.
How do I make a big batch for a party?
Multiply the ingredients and mix everything in a large pitcher or punch bowl with plenty of ice.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Drink it fresh! If needed, keep it in the fridge and enjoy within 24 hours—the fruit may get soggy.
Any tricks for extra flavor?
Muddle some of the fruit at the bottom of the glass before adding the rest. It releases more juice and aroma!
A Fruit Cup is as fun to make as it is to drink—refreshing, vibrant, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re sipping it on a lazy afternoon or serving a big batch at a summer party, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try out different variations and find your favorite way to enjoy this classic!
