A Texas Fizz is the kind of cocktail that instantly refreshes, with bright citrus, a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of fizz. It’s light, zesty, and perfect for warm days or whenever you need a pick-me-up. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make it even better—let’s get started!
Texas Fizz
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- Club soda, to top
- Ice
- Fresh mint sprig, for garnish
Glass: A highball glass works best, but a Collins glass is a great alternative. The tall shape helps highlight the bubbles and keeps the drink light and airy.
How to Make a Texas Fizz
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until the shaker feels frosty—about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and serve immediately.
Tip: Pour the club soda down the side of the glass to keep the fizz from disappearing too quickly.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can mix the juices and simple syrup ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Serving Tip: Don’t add the club soda until you’re ready to drink—this keeps it bubbly and fresh.
What to Serve with a Texas Fizz
A Texas Fizz pairs beautifully with bold, flavorful dishes.
- BBQ Brisket – The citrusy fizz cuts through rich, smoky meats.
- Tex-Mex Tacos – The fresh, zesty flavors balance out spicy tacos.
- Pecan Pie – A refreshing contrast to the sweet, nutty dessert.
I’ve served this cocktail at backyard barbecues, and it always disappears fast!
Customizing Your Texas Fizz
Want to switch things up? Try these easy variations:
- Swap the gin for vodka for a smoother, more neutral taste.
- Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Experiment with flavored sparkling water instead of club soda for a fun twist.
Fun Variations
- Lone Star Fizz – Swap gin for bourbon and add a dash of peach bitters.
- Ruby Red Fizz – Use ruby red grapefruit juice and add a splash of cranberry juice.
- Spicy Fizz – Muddle a jalapeño slice in the shaker and rim the glass with chili salt.
For a non-alcoholic version, just skip the gin and add extra club soda or a non-alcoholic spirit substitute.
Helpful Tips & Common Mistakes
- Always use fresh citrus juice – it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t over-shake – too much shaking can water down the drink.
- Gently stir in the soda – pouring too aggressively will make it go flat.
Q&A
Can I make a Texas Fizz ahead of time?
You can mix the juices and syrup in advance, but wait to add the club soda until serving.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or swap it for a sugar-free alternative.
Is this a strong cocktail?
It’s well-balanced, but you can adjust the gin to make it stronger or lighter.
What’s the best garnish?
A mint sprig or a thin grapefruit slice adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
Can I use bottled citrus juice?
Fresh is always better, but if you must use bottled, go for high-quality, no-sugar-added juice.
A Texas Fizz is one of those cocktails that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re sipping it on a hot day or serving it at a party, it’s a guaranteed hit. Cheers!
