10 Best Frozen Gin Drinks to Try: Refreshing Cocktail Recipes for Every Occasion
Imagine enjoying a refreshing, icy drink on a hot day that not only cools you down but also offers sophisticated flavors. You’re in luck! Frozen gin cocktails are a perfect blend of chill and elegance, making them an ideal choice for summer gatherings, beach parties, or even a quiet evening at home. Whether you enjoy fruity profiles or a touch of herbal notes, there’s a frozen gin drink to complement your taste.
What makes frozen gin drinks irresistible is their delightful combination of flavors and textures. Picture sipping on a blend of frozen fruit and gin, mixed until smooth, offering a burst of refreshing taste in every sip. These drinks are easy to prepare, often just needing a few simple ingredients and a blender, making them accessible even for those new to cocktail crafting.
1. Frozen French 75
The Frozen French 75 is a cool twist on a classic cocktail. Originally, a French 75 mixes gin with lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. Adding a frozen element makes it perfect for hot days.
You’ll need a blender to create this delightful drink. Blend gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice. The key is to get a smooth, slushy consistency.
Don’t forget to top it off with some bubbly! Pour in a splash of Brut Champagne and give it a gentle stir. This step keeps the fizz without over-diluting the cocktail.
A garnish adds a fancy touch. Try a lemon twist or a few fresh berries. It’s not just for looks; a little fruit enhances the flavors.
This drink offers a refreshing balance of tart and sweet. The champagne brings that extra sparkle, making it a favorite at parties. Enjoy a Frozen French 75 for a unique, frosty experience!
2. Gin and Tonic Slushies
Love gin and tonic? Then, you’ll adore gin and tonic slushies! This refreshing drink turns a classic cocktail into a frosty delight.
To make gin and tonic slushies, you’ll need tonic water, gin, and some ice cube trays. First, freeze the tonic water in the trays overnight. This creates the icy base for your slushie.
When you’re ready for your drink, grab the tonic water ice cubes and toss them into a blender. Add your favorite gin and blend until smooth. If you like a bit of zest, add some lime zest or even some frozen fruit like raspberries for extra flavor.
Pour the mixture into chilled glasses and enjoy. Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprig of mint if you want to get fancy. Perfect for those hot summer days, this drink will keep you cool and refreshed.
If you’re entertaining, this gin and tonic slushie is sure to impress your guests. It’s easy to make but looks and tastes sophisticated. Give it a try next time you need a quick and cool cocktail!
3. Frozen Negroni
The Frozen Negroni is a cool twist on the classic Negroni. If you love icy drinks and bold flavors, this one’s for you.
You’ll need 1 oz. Campari, 1 oz. gin, and 1 oz. sweet vermouth. Add 2 oz. of orange juice to the mix. This balances the bitterness with a bit of sweetness.
Don’t forget the sweetener! Use 0.75 oz. simple syrup or a tablespoon of white sugar.
Simply add all ingredients to a blender with some ice. Blend until smooth.
Pour into a glass, garnish with an orange and grapefruit peel in the shape of an X. Enjoy your Frozen Negroni!
4. Grapefruit Gin Fizz Slush
Let’s talk about the Grapefruit Gin Fizz Slush. This drink is a refreshing twist on the classic Gin Fizz. It’s perfect for those hot summer days when you need something cool and zesty.
You start by mixing gin and grapefruit juice. Pour this mixture into a blender with ice. You want it smooth but still icy.
Add a splash of tonic water for that fizzy kick. If you like a bit of herbiness, throw in some rosemary sprigs. Blend it all together until you get a slushy texture.
Pour this icy delight into a glass. To make it look as good as it tastes, garnish with thin slices of grapefruit. The colors pop, making it even more appealing.
This drink not only looks amazing but also offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your friends at any gathering. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy gin in a whole new form.
5. Blackberry Gin Sour
Imagine enjoying a Blackberry Gin Sour on a warm evening. It’s more straightforward to make than you might think.
Start with fresh blackberries. Muddle them at the bottom of your cocktail shaker. Simple, right?
Now add gin and simple syrup. If you want that mesmerizing color change, wait to add lime juice until later.
Shake everything with ice and strain it into an old-fashioned glass. You can pour the lime juice over the top if you didn’t mix it earlier.
The final touch? Fresh ice and maybe a blackberry or mint garnish. Your friends will love it!
This drink has a slightly sweet, slightly tart taste. The gin balances well with the blackberries’ natural flavors.
Curious about the fizz? Add some soda water for a slight sparkle. It’s refreshing and perfect for any occasion.
6. Frozen Cucumber Collins
Have you ever tasted a garden in a glass? The Frozen Cucumber Collins is your next summer drink.
This cocktail starts with fresh cucumber, making it both cool and refreshing. You’ll mix it with gin, lemon juice, and rose syrup. Blend these ingredients with ice, and you have a smooth, frozen treat.
Why cucumber? Its subtle flavor pairs perfectly with the botanical notes of gin. The addition of lemon juice gives it a zesty kick, while rose syrup adds a touch of sweetness.
This drink is perfect for garden parties or lazy weekends. The preparation is simple: just blend, pour, and enjoy. Don’t forget to garnish with a cucumber slice or a sprig of mint for that extra flair. Cheers!
7. Rosemary Gin and Orange Fizz
Imagine a crisp and refreshing drink that combines fresh, fragrant rosemary with the juicy sweetness of oranges and the subtle kick of gin. That’s exactly what the Rosemary Gin and Orange Fizz delivers. It’s like summer in a glass!
First, chill a collins glass to get everything nice and cool. Next, grab some fresh orange slices and a sprig of rosemary. Use a mixer and smash up the oranges and rosemary to release their flavors.
Add your favorite gin to the muddled mix, along with some simple syrup for a bit of sweetness. Give it a quick shake to blend everything together. Now, strain the mixture into your chilled glass, which should be filled with ice.
Top it off with some bubbly seltzer water for that fizzy finish. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a slice of orange for a classy touch.
This drink is perfect for entertaining guests or just enjoying a relaxing afternoon. The combination of citrusy and herbal flavors is sure to impress. So, go ahead, give the Rosemary Gin and Orange Fizz a try! Cheers!
8. Frozen Lemon Gin Spritz
Ready for a refreshing twist? The Frozen Lemon Gin Spritz is your perfect summer drink. Tangy lemon meets smooth gin in a frosty mix that’s hard to resist.
To make this cool treat, start with your favorite gin. Blend it with fresh lemon juice, a bit of simple syrup, and lots of ice. It’s like sunshine in a glass!
Want to impress your friends? Add a splash of soda water for some bubbly fun. Garnish with a lemon slice or mint leaves, and you’ve got a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
If you’re wondering about the right ratio, try two parts gin to one part lemon juice. Adjust the simple syrup to your taste. Too tangy? Add more syrup. Too sweet? Dial it back. Play around, and find your perfect balance.
9. Blueberry Basil Frozen Gin Smash
Ready for a refreshing twist on your usual gin cocktail? This Blueberry Basil Frozen Gin Smash is perfect for those hot summer days. It’s packed with vibrant blueberries and fresh basil.
First, you’ll need 1.5 ounces of your favorite gin. Pick a brand that you love because that’s the base of this treat.
Next, blend 0.25 cups of fresh blueberries with half a teaspoon of wildflower honey. Don’t have honey? No problem, sugar works too.
Add juice from half a fresh lime to give it that zesty kick. The lime juice balances the sweetness from the blueberries perfectly.
Throw in 4-5 fresh basil leaves. The basil adds an aromatic touch, making this drink unique.
Now, here’s the fun part—add ice! Blend everything until it’s smooth and has a slushy consistency. You want it to be icy cold.
Serve it in a chilled glass and top it off with a splash of sparkling water or club soda for some fizz.
Garnish with a few whole blueberries and a basil leaf. Enjoy right away to beat the heat!
10. Raspberry Gin Daiquiri
If you love raspberries and gin, the Raspberry Gin Daiquiri is perfect for you. This frozen drink mixes the sweet and tart flavors of raspberries with the classic taste of gin. It’s a refreshing choice for hot summer days.
Start by making a simple syrup with sugar and water. Boil 1/4 cup of water, then add 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir until dissolved. Add fresh raspberries to the mix and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This will create a delicious raspberry syrup.
Next, blend your raspberry syrup with gin, lime juice, and ice. Make sure to blend until smooth. The thickness of your drink can vary depending on your blender and how frozen your ingredients are. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of soda or let it melt a bit.
Pour the daiquiri into a glass and garnish with a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint. This adds a nice touch and extra flavor. Cheers to a delicious and easy-to-make frozen cocktail that will keep you cool and happy!
History of Frozen Gin Drinks
Let’s dive into how gin came to be and how it ultimately found its way into icy, refreshing cocktails.
Origin of Gin
Gin has a fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. It first emerged in Holland, where it was known as “jenever.” Dutch soldiers introduced it to the British during the Eighty Years’ War, referring to it as “Dutch Courage.” Soon, gin gained popularity in England and spread across Europe.
Key Points:
- First Developed: 16th century in Holland as jenever.
- Popularized by: Dutch soldiers during the Eighty Years’ War.
- Spread to: England and then across Europe.
King William III of England encouraged gin production in the late 1600s. The “Gin Craze” ensued, with gin shops popping up everywhere. This era had ups and downs including issues like public drunkenness, but it solidified the drink’s place in history.
Evolution of Frozen Cocktails
Frozen cocktails have modern roots dating back to the mid-20th century. The invention of the blender played a significant role. Back then, these frozen delights were often associated with tropical flavors and summer parties.
Key Points:
- Mid-20th Century: Rise of frozen cocktails with the invention of the blender.
- Early Versions: Mostly tropical flavors and summer-themed.
Gin entered the frozen cocktail scene more recently. Bartenders began experimenting with it, blending it with fruits, syrups, and other ingredients to create refreshing, sophisticated drinks. Frozen gin cocktails are now incredibly popular at bars and summer gatherings.
Popular Examples:
- Blackberry Gin Slush: Blends blackberries and ginger ale.
- Frozen Melon and Gin: Mixes frozen melon and gin for a fruity treat.
This evolution showcases how technology and creativity can transform a classic spirit like gin into a summer staple.
Essential Ingredients for Frozen Gin Drinks
Crafting the best frozen gin drinks involves selecting the right types of gin, pairing them with popular mixers, and adding flavor enhancers. Using high-quality ingredients ensures a delicious and refreshing drink every time. Let’s break it down step by step.
Types of Gin
When making frozen gin drinks, the type of gin you use matters a lot. Each gin has its own flavor profile which can greatly affect the taste.
- London Dry Gin: Known for its classic juniper-forward flavor, it provides a crisp and clean base.
- Plymouth Gin: Slightly earthier and less dry, perfect for those who want a bit more body.
- Old Tom Gin: Sweeter than London Dry, great for adding a hint of sugariness without additional sweeteners.
- Pink Gin: Often flavored with fruits like strawberries or raspberries, adds color and extra fruity notes.
Exploring different gins can help you find the perfect one for your taste preferences. Keep in mind that each type might pair differently with your mixers and flavor enhancers.
Popular Mixers
Mixers can elevate your frozen gin drink by adding complexity and balance.
- Tonic Water: Classic mixer that adds a touch of bitterness and carbonation.
- Club Soda: Provides lightness and allows the gin flavors to shine.
- Juices: Orange, cranberry, and lime juice can add vibrant fruity flavors.
- Simple Syrup: Adds sweetness to balance out tart or bitter notes.
- Orange Liqueur: Gives a citrusy boost and depth.
Using fresh and high-quality mixers is key. Avoid overly sweet or artificial mixers, as they can overshadow the gin’s characteristics.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
To make your frozen gin drinks truly stand out, consider adding some flavor enhancers.
- Fresh Herbs: Mint, basil, and rosemary can bring an aromatic freshness.
- Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries can add color and natural sweetness.
- Citrus Zest: Lemon, lime, or orange zest can enhance the drink’s aroma and add a zingy finish.
- Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can offer a warm undertone.
- Bitters: A drop or two can add complexity and balance.
Experimenting with these enhancers can help you create unique and memorable frozen gin drinks. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to see what works best for you.