A refreshing cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and herbal flavors—this Strawberry-Thyme Bramble is one of my favorite drinks for warm evenings. Fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness, thyme adds a subtle earthy note, and a splash of lemon juice brightens everything up. It’s easy to make, looks stunning in the glass, and tastes even better!
Strawberry-Thyme Bramble
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 4-5 fresh strawberries, plus extra for garnish
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme, plus one for garnish
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz (22ml) simple syrup
- Crushed ice
Glass: A rocks glass works best because its wide shape makes muddling easier and keeps the drink well-chilled. If you prefer a taller drink, a highball glass works too.
How to Make a Strawberry-Thyme Bramble
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries and thyme together until the berries are broken down and release their juices.
- Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds to chill and mix everything.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of thyme and a slice of strawberry.
Tip: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, a mason jar with a tight lid works just as well.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- You can prep the simple syrup in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- If you’re making a batch for a party, muddle the strawberries and thyme ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the gin, lemon juice, and syrup when you’re ready to serve.
Substitutions & Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these simple tweaks:
- Swap the gin for vodka if you prefer a smoother base.
- Use basil instead of thyme for a slightly sweeter, peppery twist.
- Replace simple syrup with honey or agave for a more natural sweetness.
Fun variations to try:
- Strawberry-Basil Bramble: Swap thyme for basil and follow the same steps.
- Blueberry-Thyme Bramble: Use blueberries instead of strawberries and lime juice instead of lemon.
- Raspberry-Mint Bramble: Replace strawberries with raspberries and thyme with fresh mint.
For a non-alcoholic version, just leave out the gin and top it off with sparkling water—it’s just as refreshing!
Perfect Pairings
This cocktail shines alongside:
- A cheese platter—the drink’s fruity sweetness balances creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Grilled chicken—thyme and lemon pair beautifully with lightly seasoned, grilled meats.
- Fresh fruit salad—enhances the cocktail’s natural berry flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Muddle thoroughly—press firmly to release the strawberry juice and thyme’s aroma, but don’t pulverize the thyme too much or it can become bitter.
- Use fresh ingredients—fresh strawberries and thyme make all the difference in flavor.
- Adjust sweetness—if you like a tarter drink, reduce the simple syrup slightly or add more lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just let them thaw slightly before muddling to release their juices more easily.
What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
A mason jar with a tight lid works perfectly—just shake vigorously.
How do I make simple syrup at home?
Mix equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, then let it cool. It keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients, mix in a pitcher, and keep it chilled. Just pour over ice when serving.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I hope you love it as much as I do. Cheers! 🍹
