Bright, citrusy, and just the right touch of bitter-this Jasmine cocktail is one of those drinks that surprises you in the best way. It’s light, refreshing, and has a gorgeous pink hue that makes it as pretty as it is delicious. I’ve made this drink countless times, and every time I serve it, someone asks for the recipe. So here it is, in all its zesty glory.
Jasmine
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
– 0.25 oz (7 ml) Campari
– 0.25 oz (7 ml) Cointreau (or triple sec)
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice
– Ice (for shaking)
– Lemon peel (for garnish)
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop a coupe or martini glass in the freezer while you prep everything else. A cold glass keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice.
- Pour in the ingredients: Add the gin, Campari, Cointreau, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker.
- Shake it up! Give it a good, firm shake for about 15 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel icy cold-that’s your cue it’s ready.
- Strain the cocktail into your chilled glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel. Hold the peel over the drink and give it a gentle squeeze to release the oils, then drop it in or perch it on the rim.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon juice-it makes a huge difference. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same bright, clean flavor.
– Don’t skip the garnish. That little twist of lemon peel adds a fragrant citrus aroma that really ties the whole drink together.
– Balance is key. If it tastes too sour, try adding just a few extra drops of Cointreau. Too sweet? A tiny splash more lemon juice can fix that.
– Gin matters. Go for one with floral or citrus notes. London dry gins work great, but a more botanical gin can add depth.
Make Ahead
Hosting a party? You can mix a big batch ahead of time-just combine the gin, Campari, Cointreau, and lemon juice in a pitcher and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, shake individual portions with ice and strain into glasses. Don’t skip the shaking-it’s what chills and dilutes the drink just right.
Storage
If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store the mixture (without ice) in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake again before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines in warm weather, but it’s just as good on a cozy evening indoors. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails-and this is it. It’s light enough to sip before a meal, but flavorful enough to stand alone.
Here are some great pairings:
- Spicy Asian dishes – The citrus cuts through the heat beautifully.
- Grilled shrimp or ceviche – The Jasmine’s zing pairs perfectly with seafood.
- Fruit-forward salads – Think arugula with orange slices and goat cheese.
Variations
Want to switch it up? Try one of these twists on the classic:
Italian Jasmine
– Use Aperol instead of Campari for a gentler, sweeter bitterness.
Ruby Jasmine
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) of pomegranate juice for a fruity, tart edge.
Sparkling Jasmine
– Top the finished cocktail with a splash of chilled prosecco for a bubbly twist.
Virgin Jasmine
– Mix 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice with 0.25 oz (7 ml) non-alcoholic bitter syrup (like a zero-proof aperitif), then top with soda water. It’s a great no-alcohol option with the same refreshing vibe.
Substitutions
– No Cointreau? Try triple sec, or even a splash of orange juice in a pinch.
– Out of Campari? Aperol works, or go without it for a sweeter, less bitter version.
– No lemon? Lime juice brings a tangy twist.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
– Using bottled lemon juice. It dulls the drink’s brightness.
– Over-shaking or under-shaking. You want it cold and just slightly diluted-not watery or warm.
– Too much Campari. A little goes a long way. Stick to the recipe unless you love bitter flavors.
FAQs
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Chill well, and shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
What’s the best gin to use?
Look for one with citrus or floral notes. A London dry is a classic choice, but a more botanical gin can add a fun twist.
How can I make it look fancy?
Serve in a coupe glass and garnish with a lemon twist, edible flower, or even a sprig of mint for color and fragrance.
Can I make it less bitter?
Absolutely. Reduce the Campari slightly or swap it for Aperol. You can also add a touch more Cointreau to sweeten it up.
Is this drink very strong?
It’s spirit-forward but balanced. The lemon juice and liqueurs soften the gin, making it refreshing rather than boozy.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Yes! It’ll give the drink a sharper, tangier flavor-still delicious, just different.
The Jasmine cocktail is one of those hidden gems that’s simple, elegant, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re relaxing on the porch or hosting friends, it’s a drink that always feels special. Cheers to trying something new-and maybe finding your new favorite.
