Description

Refresh yourself with this vibrant Blueberry Lemon Thyme Smash, a delightful cocktail that combines fresh blueberries, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme with a splash of bourbon and elderflower liquor. Perfectly balanced with sparkling water, this refreshing drink is ideal for summer evenings or any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Lemon Sugar Rim

zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves

Smash Mixture

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)
ice for shaking and serving

Instructions

Prepare the lemon sugar rim: Combine the lemon zest, granulated sugar, and chopped thyme leaves on a shallow plate. Use this mixture to rim your glasses by dipping the rims into water or lemon juice first, then into the sugar-thyme mix. Fill the glasses with ice and set aside.
Muddle the fruits and herbs: In a cocktail shaker or a glass jar, add the blueberries, fresh thyme leaves, and freshly squeezed lemon juice from half a lemon. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently squash the ingredients, releasing the juicy flavors and aromatic oils.
Add remaining ingredients and shake: Add the blueberry or blackberry jam, bourbon (or tequila), and elderflower liquor to the muddled mixture. Fill the shaker with ice to the top, then secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled and combined.
Strain and top with sparkling water: Strain the cocktail mixture into your prepared rimmed glasses filled with ice, ensuring a smooth pour without blueberry pieces. Top off each drink with sparkling water to add a refreshing fizz.
Garnish and serve: Gently stir the drink to combine the sparkling water with the cocktail base. Garnish with additional fresh blueberries and a sprig of thyme. Serve immediately and enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Thyme Smash!

Notes

To make this cocktail non-alcoholic, substitute bourbon and elderflower liquor with extra sparkling water and a splash of lemon juice.
Use fresh ingredients when possible for a brighter flavor; frozen blueberries also work well if fresh are unavailable.
Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of jam or sugar rim according to taste.
Can be prepared in batches for parties—multiply ingredients accordingly and keep chilled until serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Cocktail
Method: Shaking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: blueberry cocktail, lemon thyme smash, bourbon cocktail, elderflower drink, summer cocktail, refreshing drink