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There’s something refreshing about a cool, zesty cocktail that can transport you straight to the heart of a bustling city. The London Lemonade is one of those drinks that does just that. It’s the perfect blend of citrusy brightness and smooth gin, making it an ideal cocktail to enjoy on a warm afternoon or to serve at a lively get-together.
Whether you're an experienced mixologist or just someone who enjoys a good drink, the London Lemonade cocktail recipe is simple, yet satisfying. This drink combines the classic flavors of lemonade with a bit of bubbly flair, making it both elegant and easy to sip. Ready to shake things up? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe.
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Why Fresh Lemonade is Key
One of the secrets to making an exceptional London Lemonade cocktail is using fresh lemonade. Store-bought lemonade tends to have added preservatives and artificial sweeteners, which can throw off the natural balance of the drink.
Freshly squeezed lemons bring a tart brightness that pairs beautifully with gin, and it’s worth the extra few minutes to squeeze the lemons yourself. Plus, you can control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of simple syrup.
Choosing the Right Gin
The type of gin you use can make or break your London Lemonade cocktail. London dry gin is the best choice for this drink because it has a bold, juniper-forward flavor that stands up well to the lemon and soda water.
The clean, crisp taste of the gin cuts through the sweetness of the lemonade and makes each sip refreshing. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with flavored gins, like a citrus-infused one, to add an extra layer of complexity to your cocktail.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Strainer
- Highball or Collins glass
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin London dry gin works best
- 4 oz lemonade freshly squeezed is ideal
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Soda water for topping
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your glass: Start by filling your favorite cocktail glass (a highball or Collins glass works great) with ice cubes. This will ensure your drink stays cold and refreshing.
- Mix the base: In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of gin, 4 oz of lemonade, and 1 oz of simple syrup. Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until everything is well mixed and chilled.
- Strain and pour: Strain the mixture from the shaker into your prepared glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda: Add a splash of soda water to the top of your drink for some fizz. You can adjust the amount based on how bubbly you want your cocktail to be.
- Garnish and serve: Add a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint to your drink for that extra touch of elegance. Now, take a sip and enjoy your homemade London Lemonade!
