The Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe is a delightful cocktail that perfectly balances the rich sweetness of fresh figs with the tart juiciness of blackberries, all enhanced by the warm, oaky notes of bourbon. This refreshing drink is quick to whip up, effortlessly transforming simple, fresh ingredients into a sophisticated smash that’s perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it invites you to enjoy a burst of fruity flavor and a touch of elegance in every sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting a vibrant balance of flavors and textures. From the natural sweetness of fruit to the smooth depth of bourbon, every component is essential in making this cocktail memorable.
- Blackberries: Fresh blackberries provide tartness and vibrant color, making the drink visually stunning and flavorfully bright.
- Fig: The fig offers a luscious, honey-like sweetness and a soft texture that complements the berries beautifully.
- Bourbon: Smooth and smoky, bourbon delivers warmth and complexity, tying the fruity notes together.
- Simple Syrup: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the natural fruit flavors.
- Crushed Ice: Essential for chilling the cocktail quickly, diluting it slightly, and achieving that perfect, refreshing consistency.
How to Make Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe
Step 1: Muddle the Fruit and Sweetener
Start by combining the blackberries, quartered fig, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Using a muddler, crush the fruit gently but thoroughly. This releases the juices and infuses the syrup with natural sweetness and vibrant berry and fig flavors, forming the heart of your Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe.
Step 2: Add Bourbon and Ice, Then Shake
Pour in the bourbon, then add about one cup of crushed ice to the shaker. Seal it up and give it a vigorous shake for 15 seconds. This step chills the mixture and blends the warming bourbon with the fruity base, creating a lovely, harmonious cocktail.
Step 3: Prepare Glasses and Strain
Distribute the remaining crushed ice evenly into two highball glasses. Then, strain the shaken mixture into the glasses, ensuring your cocktail is cold and smooth. The crushed ice keeps the drink refreshing as you enjoy every sip.
Step 4: Garnish and Finish
Top off your Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe with a few fresh blackberries or an edible flower for an extra dash of elegance and visual flair. This final touch makes your cocktail feel special and ready to impress.
How to Serve Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh blackberries atop the glass adds a pop of natural color, while edible flowers bring a charming, sophisticated appearance. These simple garnishes elevate your smash and make it even more inviting and Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair this cocktail with light, complementary bites such as a cheese platter with creamy brie and sharp cheddar, or a fresh arugula salad with toasted nuts. These pairings enhance the fruity notes of the cocktail without competing with its nuanced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe in rustic mason jars or chilled coupe glasses. You can also rim the glasses with sugar infused with a pinch of cinnamon to add an aromatic surprise with every sip. Presentation makes a difference, turning a simple drink into a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover smash mixture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Fresh fruit flavors are best enjoyed soon after preparing, but refrigeration helps keep the mixture fresh for a bit longer.
Freezing
This cocktail is best served fresh and not recommended for freezing, as the texture and flavor of muddled fresh fruit can change negatively. To keep enjoying your Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe, prepare it fresh each time.
Reheating
Since this is a cold smash cocktail, reheating is not applicable. Enjoy it chilled for that perfect balance of refreshing and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries and figs for this recipe?
While fresh fruit delivers the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen blackberries and figs if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent watering down your cocktail.
What can I substitute for bourbon if I don’t drink alcohol?
For a non-alcoholic version, try using a bourbon-flavored syrup or a lightly smoked tea like lapsang souchong to emulate the warm, smoky notes. Add extra simple syrup to balance the flavors.
How sweet is the Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe?
The simple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of blackberries and the earthiness of figs without overwhelming the drink, making it pleasantly sweet and very drinkable.
Can I make this recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients accordingly and mix in a large pitcher. Stir well and serve over crushed ice with garnishes for easy entertaining.
What’s the best way to muddle the fruit?
Use a sturdy muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, pressing down gently and twisting slightly to release juices without pulverizing the seeds too much, which can add bitterness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s as charming as it is delicious, the Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make, refreshingly fruity, and perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself. Give this delightful smash a try and savor every flavorful, boozy sip!
Print
Fig & Blackberry Smash Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Fig & Blackberry Smash is a refreshing bourbon cocktail that combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs and blackberries with a touch of simple syrup. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion, this cocktail balances fruity flavors with the warmth of bourbon and the chill of crushed ice, served elegantly in highball glasses.
Ingredients
Fruit & Syrup
- 8 blackberries
- 1 fig, quartered
- 2 ounces simple syrup
Liquids
- 4 ounces bourbon
Others
- 3 cups crushed ice, divided
Instructions
- Muddle Fruits: Combine the blackberries, quartered fig, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Use a muddler to crush the fruits thoroughly, releasing their juices and flavors.
- Shake with Bourbon and Ice: Add the bourbon and 1 cup of crushed ice to the shaker. Seal it and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to mix and chill the cocktail.
- Prepare Glasses and Strain: Fill two highball glasses with the remaining crushed ice. Strain the cocktail mixture evenly into each glass.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the drinks with extra blackberries or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe figs and blackberries for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste for sweetness preference.
- The cocktail is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh fruit flavors and cold temperature.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or iced tea.
