There’s something about a Gin Fizz that just hits the spot—especially on warm afternoons or breezy evenings. It’s fizzy, citrusy, and lightly sweet, with just enough kick to keep things interesting. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to lift the mood. It’s crisp, refreshing, and easy to pull together with just a few ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Gin Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (see tips for alternatives)
– Soda water, to top (chilled)
– Ice
– Lemon slice or cherry, for garnish (optional)
Make It Ahead
You can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just shake with ice and top with soda water.
How to Make a Classic Gin Fizz
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake for about 15 seconds, or until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Fill your glass with fresh ice and strain the drink over it.
- Top with cold soda water—about 2–3 oz (60–90 ml), depending on how strong you like it.
- Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a lemon slice or cherry if you’d like.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t give you that bright, clean flavor.
– Simple syrup is just equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
– Want a natural sweetener? Try honey syrup (mix honey with a bit of hot water) or agave.
– For the best fizz, make sure your soda water is really cold.
– No shaker? No problem. You can stir everything in a mixing glass, but shaking gives a better chill and mix.
How It Tastes
A Gin Fizz is light, bubbly, and citrus-forward. You’ll taste the bright lemon first, followed by a touch of sweetness and those lovely herbal notes from the gin. The soda water lifts it all up, making it super refreshing—like lemonade for grown-ups.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. It’s simple but feels special every time.
Serving Suggestions
Gin Fizz pairs well with foods that match its bright, clean profile:
Brunch Favorites
– Eggs Benedict or smoked salmon toast—the acidity cuts through rich sauces beautifully.
Light Salads
– Try it with a crisp cucumber and dill salad or anything tossed in vinaigrette.
Spicy Snacks
– Buffalo wings or spicy shrimp tacos? Yes, please. The fizz cools the heat and keeps things balanced.
Storage
Don’t store a fully made Gin Fizz for later—it’ll lose its bubbles. But you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time. Store that mix in the fridge and top with soda water just before serving.
Variations to Try
Ramos Gin Fizz
– Add egg white, cream, and a drop of orange flower water.
– Shake without ice first (this helps the foam form), then with ice, and strain into a glass. Top with soda.
– It’s creamy, frothy, and a bit more indulgent.
Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz
– Muddle a few slices of cucumber and mint leaves before shaking.
– Super refreshing and perfect for garden parties.
Sloe Gin Fizz
– Swap regular gin for sloe gin (a fruitier, berry-infused liqueur).
– It’s a little sweeter and has a reddish hue—great for a twist on the classic.
Virgin Gin Fizz
– Skip the gin and mix lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
– Just as refreshing, and perfect for anyone skipping alcohol.
Substitutions
– No gin? Vodka works in a pinch, though it’ll lack the botanical flavor.
– Out of lemons? Try fresh lime juice for a tarter version.
– Swap soda water with tonic for a slightly bitter edge.
Common Questions
Can I make a batch for a party?
Absolutely! Scale up the gin, lemon juice, and syrup. Keep it chilled, and top each glass with soda water when serving.
Is it strong?
Not really. The soda water dilutes the alcohol, so it’s a pretty easy-sipping drink.
Do I need to shake it?
Shaking chills the drink and blends the flavors well. But if you’re in a pinch, stirring in a tall glass works too—just make sure everything’s cold.
What’s the difference between a Gin Fizz and a Tom Collins?
Very similar, but a Tom Collins typically has more soda and is usually served in a Collins glass. Flavor-wise, they’re close cousins.
How do I know it’s mixed well?
After shaking, the drink should feel cold, and when you pour it, it should look slightly cloudy from the citrus and syrup blending with the gin.
Can I use flavored gin?
Definitely! Floral or citrus-flavored gins add a fun twist. Just taste as you go—some flavored gins are sweeter, so you might want to adjust the syrup.
Wrap-Up
A well-made Gin Fizz is a little moment of joy in a glass. It’s quick, refreshing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick with the classic or try a fun twist, it’s a cocktail that brings a smile with every sip. Serve it with your favorite light bites or enjoy it solo—it’s always a good idea.
