As a seasoned bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of serving up countless cocktails over the years. From timeless classics to trendy innovations, every drink has its own unique charm. But one cocktail that never fails to impress is the Collins – a refreshing and fizzy concoction that’s perfect for any occasion. With a history spanning over a century, the Collins Cocktail has stood the test of time.
It’s a drink that effortlessly combines flavor, technique, and presentation, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sipping on one at your favorite bar or enjoying it with friends at home, the Collins is always a great choice. So, what makes a truly exceptional Collins? In my experience, it’s a perfect balance of fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and a dash of creativity.
From the classic Tom Collins to the modern Watermelon Collins, there are countless variations on this timeless theme. In this post, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite Collins Cocktail recipes – tried-and-true formulas that are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab a glass, sit back, and get ready to discover the best Collins Cocktails you can make at home.
Tom Collins
Tom Collins is a timeless cocktail that effortlessly combines the crispness of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the subtle sweetness of simple syrup, and the crisp effervescence of club soda. This delightful concoction is typically served in a Collins glass, making it a visually appealing addition to any gathering.
nThe Tom Collins boasts a distinctive sweet-and-sour flavor profile, with the gin lending a subtle bitterness that harmonizes with the lemon’s tartness and the simple syrup’s gentle sweetness. This well-balanced mix makes for a refreshing summer treat that can be easily whipped up in no time.
Bombay Sapphire Blackberry and Meyer Lemon Tom Collins
The Bombay Sapphire Blackberry and Meyer Lemon Tom Collins presents a delectable fusion of flavors in a classic cocktail. By combining Bombay Sapphire gin with blackberry puree and Meyer lemon juice, this drink offers a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy notes that will captivate anyone seeking a refreshing and fruity concoction.
The addition of sparkling water further enhances the beverage’s revitalizing quality, making it an ideal choice for warm summer days when a cool and revitalizing drink is in order. Beyond its tantalizing taste profile, this cocktail also boasts an intriguing history tied to the Bombay Sapphire distillery, providing a rich backstory that complements its unique flavor profile.
Classic Tom Collins Cocktail
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktails, the Tom Collins is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for sizzling summer days. With its harmonious blend of lemon, gin, simple syrup, and club soda, this fizzy concoction is sure to quench your thirst. When served in a tall high ball glass, the drink comes alive with effervescent bubbles, elevating the overall experience to new heights. The best part?
It’s ridiculously easy to whip up, and you can put your own spin on things by substituting Sprite or Gingerale for the club soda. If you’re a aficionado of classic cocktails, the Tom Collins is an absolute must-try.
Tom Collins Cocktail
The Tom Collins Cocktail is a timeless classic that embodies the essence of refreshing simplicity. Its unique blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water makes it an ideal choice for any social gathering or casual get-together. Interestingly, this cocktail has its roots in a popular prank from the 1870s, where people would spread rumors that someone named Tom Collins was gossiping about them behind their backs.
Although the original Old Tom gin is no longer available, various interpretations of it can still be found among modern distilleries. If you’re seeking a revitalizing and easy-to-enjoy cocktail, the Tom Collins Cocktail is definitely worth exploring.
Vodka Collins
Imagine sipping on a Vodka Collins at happy hour or brunch – it’s the perfect cocktail for any occasion. This citrusy delight is made with vodka, fresh orange and lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of club soda, making it a refreshing treat for those who love a good balance of flavors. What sets this cocktail apart from others is its ease of preparation – no complicated ingredients or liqueurs required.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to unwind with a quick drink, the Vodka Collins is an excellent choice. Its impressive flavor profile and revitalizing qualities make it a sure hit with your guests, so why not give it a try and discover for yourself what makes this cocktail one of the best out there?
Basil-Infused Tom Collins Cocktail
The Basil-Infused Tom Collins Cocktail is a revitalizing spin on the classic Tom Collins recipe, boasting a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you and your guests in awe. This delectable concoction is ideal for those seeking to elevate their solo moments or entertain friends with an unforgettable experience. The subtle infusion of basil lends a nuanced layer of freshness, setting this cocktail apart from its traditional counterpart.
As the drink unfolds on the palate, sweetness and tartness meld together in perfect harmony, making it a refreshing refuge from the sweltering summer heat. Meanwhile, the aroma wafts hints of juniper and citrus, while the mouthfeel is light and revitalizing.
In essence, this timeless classic remains an enduring favorite among cocktail enthusiasts, its allure transcending seasons to become a staple in any social gathering.
Cucumber Collins
The Cucumber Collins is a revitalizing spin on the timeless Tom Collins Cocktail recipe. It’s an ideal choice for balmy summer evenings when a crisp, fizzy drink is just what you need to beat the heat. The incorporation of pureed cucumber adds a delightful twist, imbuing the cocktail with a refreshing flavor that will surely leave you craving another sip.
This revitalizing drink is crafted with gin, lemon, sugar syrup, soda water, and pureed cucumber, making it remarkably easy to prepare.
Whether you’re hosting a soiree or simply seeking a revitalizing beverage for a warm summer night, the Cucumber Collins is an excellent choice. If you’re on the hunt for a unique and rejuvenating cocktail experience, this drink is definitely worth exploring.
Meyer Lemon Tom Collins
Innovating on the traditional Tom Collins recipe, the Meyer Lemon Tom Collins offers a revitalizing spin on a timeless favorite. This unique cocktail combines gin with the subtle sweetness of Meyer lemon juice and a hint of sugar, resulting in a taste experience that’s both tangy and sweet. The key to this refreshing concoction lies in the use of Meyer lemons – a cross between regular lemons and mandarin oranges – which impart an aromatic and distinctive flavor profile.
When you add the effervescence of soda water, the result is a revitalizing drink perfect for sipping on a sweltering summer afternoon. For those who prefer vodka to gin, this cocktail remains a viable option. Ultimately, the Meyer Lemon Tom Collins represents a must-try innovation for anyone seeking to elevate their cocktail repertoire and experience the thrill of discovery.
Lavender Tom Collins
The Lavender Tom Collins offers a revitalizing spin on the timeless Tom Collins cocktail, its charm amplified by the subtle essence of homemade lavender simple syrup. As the flavors meld together in harmony, this effervescent drink delivers a delightful balance of crisp citrus and floral notes, rendering it an ideal choice for sipping on a warm summer afternoon.
With its effortless preparation and delectable taste, this revitalized classic is certain to become a staple in your cocktail collection. If you’re seeking a sophisticated and revitalizing libation to complement the sun-kissed days of summer, the Lavender Tom Collins is an excellent choice worth exploring.
Rosemary Collins
The Rosemary Collins cocktail is an innovative spin on the timeless Tom Collins, elevated by the subtle infusion of rosemary simple syrup and garnish. This unique concoction is perfectly suited for languid summer afternoons, when its herbaceous notes harmonize with the crispness of gin, the brightness of lemon, and a hint of sweetness. As you savor this delightful drink, be mindful that the rosemary’s presence should remain understated, lest it overpower the other flavors.
Nonetheless, the Rosemary Collins is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to shake up their summer cocktail repertoire.
Grapefruit Strawberry Collins
While the classic Tom Collins cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser, the Grapefruit Strawberry Collins offers a fruity and revitalizing spin that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a flavor boost. The star of this show is grapefruit-infused vodka, which pairs surprisingly well with sweet strawberries that have been muddled to perfection.
What really sets this cocktail apart, however, is its commitment to using every part of the grapefruit – from the flavorful vodka to the candied peel garnish that adds a touch of elegance. A sugared rim provides just enough sweetness to balance out the tartness of the grapefruit, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail or simply a fun and fruity drink to enjoy with friends, the Grapefruit Strawberry Collins is definitely worth trying.
The Backyard Collins
Genevieve Brazelton’s innovative Backyard Collins reimagines the timeless Tom Collins, offering a revitalizing escape from the sweltering summer heat. This clever concoction combines a zesty citrus-rosemary simple syrup with The Bitter Housewife Cardamom Bitters, introducing a subtle spice that harmonizes beautifully with the citrus notes. The gin, wisely balanced, avoids overpowering the senses, making it an excellent choice for those who crave lighter, more approachable cocktails.
As a must-try for citrus enthusiasts and anyone seeking a refreshing drink to savor on their front porch or backyard, the Backyard Collins is sure to delight.
Fresh Strawberry Tom Collins
A revitalizing spin on the timeless Tom Collins cocktail, the Fresh Strawberry Tom Collins combines the sweetness of strawberries with the crispness of lime and the subtlety of gin. To craft this refreshing drink, start by pureeing fresh strawberries with a touch of agave nectar to balance out the natural tartness. Then, add a squeeze of lime juice to bring out the flavors. Next, mix the strawberry puree with gin and club soda for a delightfully subtle flavor profile.
Serve it all in a tall Collins glass and you’ve got the perfect accompaniment to a warm summer day. If you’re a fan of gin-based cocktails looking to shake things up, this fruity twist on a classic is definitely worth giving a try.
Pear Collins Cocktail
The Pear Collins Cocktail offers a revitalizing blend of floral notes and classic sophistication, departing from the traditional Tom Collins formula. This delightful concoction caters to those who prioritize genuine fruit flavors over sugary drinks. A homemade pear puree, subtly sweetened with honey and lemon juice, brings an innovative twist to the mixology experience. Meanwhile, the botanical essence of gin is elegantly underscored by a fragrant thyme garnish.
What’s more, this cocktail is remarkably easy to prepare, allowing you to make it ahead of time by refrigerating the pear puree for 3-4 days. If you’re seeking a seasonal drink with an intriguing twist, the Pear Collins Cocktail is certainly worth exploring.
Rose and Cucumber Collins
On scorching summer nights, the Rose and Cucumber Collins offers a delightful escape from the heat. This charming cocktail’s harmonious blend of homemade rosewater syrup, cucumber’s subtle floral notes, and aromatic gin creates a refreshing drink that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. For those who prefer to abstain from spirits, a mocktail version is also included in the recipe, making this cocktail accessible to all.
If you’re drawn to light, perfumed drinks with a touch of elegance, the Rose and Cucumber Collins is an absolute must-try.
Blood Orange Spritzer
A modern spin on the timeless Tom Collins, the Blood Orange Spritzer is a revitalizing concoction that showcases the bold flavors of blood orange and bitters. While traditional recipes call for lemon juice, this twist substitutes the tartness with the sweet and tangy essence of blood oranges. The non-alcoholic version presents a delightful alternative, blending effervescence, fruit juice, and a hint of simple syrup to strike the perfect balance.
Served best in a Collins glass or highball glass, though any vessel will suffice, this revitalizing drink is ideal for those seeking a light, easy-to-make beverage that’s suitable for any gathering. With its effortless charm, the Blood Orange Spritzer is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
Limoncello Gin Collins
The Limoncello Gin Collins offers a delightful departure from the traditional Tom Collins, thanks to the clever incorporation of limoncello and mint simple syrup. This ingenious combination yields a drink with a bold lemon profile that’s harmoniously tempered by subtle hints of mint. The effervescent quality of the cocktail makes it an ideal choice for sizzling summer afternoons, when the last thing you want is a heavy or cloying beverage.
To create this revitalizing mixology masterpiece, simply follow the easy steps and garnish with a lemon slice and sprigs of fresh mint to add a touch of sophistication. If you’re a self-proclaimed gin aficionado seeking new horizons in your cocktail repertoire, the Limoncello Gin Collins is an absolute must-try.
Vampire Collins Cocktail
Transform your Halloween party into a memorable night with the bewitching Vampire Collins Cocktail. This eerie twist on the classic Tom Collins recipe, featuring gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda, is sure to cast a spell on your guests. The real magic happens when you add raspberry puree, giving the drink its signature blood-red hue. For a kid-friendly version, simply substitute the gin with lemonade and watch as your little monsters delight in this sweet and tangy concoction.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for a creative way to get into the Halloween spirit, the Vampire Collins Cocktail is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering.
Rose Hibiscus Tom Collins Cocktail
Crafting the perfect cocktail for Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day requires a blend of creativity and flavor. One such standout creation is the Rose Hibiscus Tom Collins Cocktail, which elevates the classic recipe by incorporating rose and hibiscus syrup and pairing it with pink gin. This sweet, sour, and floral drink is sure to delight those who appreciate fruity and floral flavors.
The best part?
The syrup takes mere minutes to prepare and yields enough for at least 10 cocktails, making it a convenient addition to any gathering. To take it to the next level, garnish with a rose petal for a visually stunning presentation that’s almost too beautiful to drink. Almost. With its unique combination of flavors, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to shake things up and add some romance to their beverage repertoire.
Honey Tangerine Collins Cocktail
Indulge in the delightful Honey Tangerine Collins Cocktail, a refreshing twist on the classic Tom Collins recipe. Combining sweet tangerine juice, lemon juice, gin, simple syrup, and soda water, this drink is a perfect blend of citrusy flavors for those who crave sweet and tangy lemon cocktails. While it’s a natural fit for summer sipping, its citrusy essence also makes it an ideal choice for winter’s citrus season.
For anyone seeking to try something new and citrus-lovers in general, the Honey Tangerine Collins Cocktail is a must-try treat.
