Drinks

Blueberry Lemon Thyme Smash Recipe

ByHailey Reed October 27, 2025October 27, 2025

Introduction

The Blueberry Lemon Thyme Smash is a refreshing cocktail bursting with vibrant flavors. Combining fresh blueberries, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme with a hint of bourbon or tequila, it’s the perfect drink for warm evenings or any gathering.

A short clear glass filled with a deep pink and red drink has crushed ice piled to the top, giving it a frosty look; inside the drink, there are dark blueberries scattered. The rim of the glass is coated with a light sugary layer, and it is topped with fresh green thyme sprigs and two dark blueberries. The drink sits on a rough metal surface, scattered with loose blueberries, crumbs, green sprigs, and a light pink and white flower near the base. A blurred jar containing berries and green herbs is in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons fresh or frozen blueberries, plus more for topping
1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, plus a sprig for serving
Juice from half of a lemon
2 tablespoons blueberry or blackberry jam
1 1/2 ounces bourbon or tequila
1/2 ounce elderflower liquor (St. Germain)
Sparkling water (for topping)
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon chopped thyme leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the lemon sugar by combining the lemon zest, sugar, and chopped thyme on a shallow plate. Rim your glasses with this sugar mixture, then fill the glasses with ice.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker or glass jar, muddle the blueberries, thyme leaves, and lemon juice thoroughly to release their juices.
Step 3: Add the blueberry or blackberry jam, bourbon or tequila, and elderflower liquor to the muddled mixture. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until combined and chilled.
Step 4: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glasses over the ice. Top off with sparkling water and gently stir to combine.
Step 5: Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprig of thyme before serving. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Thyme Smash!

Tips & Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon or tequila and elderflower liquor. Replace with more sparkling water or a splash of apple juice for sweetness.
Use frozen blueberries if fresh are out of season; just thaw slightly before muddling.
Try swapping fresh thyme with rosemary for a different herbal note.

Storage

This cocktail is best served fresh but you can prepare the muddled fruit mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble and add sparkling water just before serving to keep the fizz.

How to Serve

A short, clear glass filled with a deep purple-pink drink with ice cubes inside, showing a slightly frosted texture around the top. The rim of the glass is coated with a sugary layer, and on top are a few dark blue blueberries along with small green herb sprigs. The drink appears to have two layers: a darker purple at the bottom and a lighter pink with ice floating on top. The glass sits on a rustic surface with scattered sugar, blueberries, and a pale pink flower nearby, with blurred background elements including a jar with similar contents. The whole scene is on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use vodka instead of bourbon or tequila?

Yes, vodka works well as a neutral spirit and won’t overpower the fruit and herb flavors.

What if I don’t have elderflower liquor?

If you don’t have elderflower liquor, you can leave it out or substitute it with a small amount of simple syrup or a mild floral liqueur like orange blossom.

Hailey Reed