A Mango-Basil Bramble is one of those cocktails that just feels like summer in a glass. It’s fruity, fresh, and has that little herbal kick that keeps things interesting. The sweet mango plays beautifully with the bright, peppery notes of basil, and the citrusy zing ties it all together. I’ve made this drink countless times—especially for backyard get-togethers—and it never lasts long. Here’s how to make it at home, plus a few tips I’ve picked up while perfecting it.
Mango-Basil Bramble
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail • Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin (a citrus-forward gin works great)
– 1 oz (30 ml) mango purée (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or honey/agave syrup)
– 4–5 fresh basil leaves
– Crushed ice
– Basil leaf and mango slice, for garnish
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Muddler or wooden spoon
– Rocks glass (or a highball glass)
– Strainer (optional but helpful)
Method
- Add the basil leaves to your shaker. Gently muddle them—just press enough to release their oils without shredding them. This brings out that lovely aroma without making your drink taste grassy.
- Pour in the gin, mango purée, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice. Shake it hard for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold and the ingredients are well mixed.
- Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass. If you like the little basil bits, skip the strainer and pour it straight in.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a thin slice of mango for a little flair.
Tips & Make-Ahead Notes
– You can make a batch of mango purée ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just blend ripe mangoes with a splash of water until smooth.
– If you’re hosting a party, scale up the recipe and mix everything except the basil and ice in a pitcher. Muddle the basil fresh into each glass before serving.
– Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice—it brightens everything up and balances the sweetness.
Ingredient Swaps
– No gin? Use vodka for a more neutral base.
– No mango purée? Try peach or even pineapple purée for a tropical twist.
– No simple syrup? Use honey (loosen it with a bit of warm water first) or agave syrup.
How It Tastes
Think of it like a tropical lemonade with a little herbal twist. The mango brings a rich, smooth sweetness, the lemon adds zip, and the basil gives it that fresh, just-picked-from-the-garden feel. It’s not too sweet, not too sour—just super refreshing.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. It’s easy to make, feels a little fancy, and always impresses friends.
Serving Ideas
This cocktail pairs well with:
– Grilled chicken – The charred, savory flavor balances the sweetness of the drink.
– Fresh seafood – Shrimp skewers or grilled scallops are perfect.
– Tropical fruit salad – Try mango, pineapple, and kiwi to echo the drink’s flavor.
Storage
You can mix the liquid ingredients (without ice or basil) a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Basil is best muddled fresh, and the cocktail should be shaken and served right before drinking.
Variations to Try
Peach-Basil Bramble
– Use peach purée instead of mango.
– Everything else stays the same.
Strawberry-Basil Bramble
– Use vodka instead of gin.
– Swap mango purée for strawberry purée.
– Try lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus note.
Mint-Mango Bramble
– Swap basil for fresh mint leaves.
– Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a floral touch.
Virgin Mango-Basil Bramble
– Skip the gin and add sparkling water or club soda.
– Still muddle the basil and shake the rest for full flavor.
FAQs
What kind of gin works best?
Look for one with citrus or floral notes. It’ll play nicely with the mango and basil.
Can I use dried basil?
Fresh is best. Dried basil doesn’t release the same oils or aroma. If you’re in a pinch, skip it or try mint instead.
What if I don’t have mango purée?
Use another fruit purée—peach, strawberry, or pineapple all work well. You could also blend canned mango if fresh isn’t available.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix in a pitcher, and chill. Just muddle basil fresh in each glass before serving.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less simple syrup, or add a little extra lemon juice. You can also use a slightly underripe mango for a more tart flavor.
Final Notes
The Mango-Basil Bramble is a fun, fresh cocktail that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re mixing it up for a quiet night in or serving a crowd, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try switching up the fruit or herbs to make it your own—and don’t forget to garnish. Cheers!
