Kiwi & Strawberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe – Refreshing Twist
I love experimenting with fresh fruits in cocktails, and when summer rolls around, I find myself craving something refreshing, slightly sweet, and bursting with flavor. That’s how I stumbled upon the perfect combination for this Kiwi & Strawberry Bourbon Smash. It’s an irresistible fusion of vibrant kiwi and juicy strawberries, blended beautifully with the bold, oaky undertones of bourbon.
This cocktail hits all the right notes—fruity, tangy, and smooth, with just the right amount of kick. Whether you're hosting friends for a backyard BBQ or just want to treat yourself to something special after a long day, this Kiwi & Strawberry Bourbon Smash will definitely make your taste buds happy. Let’s get started!
Article Includes
How to Perfect the Fruit-Muddle Technique
Muddling is more than just mashing up ingredients; it’s about extracting all the natural flavors without overdoing it. When muddling fruit and mint, you want to apply firm pressure, but not so hard that you break down the mint leaves too much and make the drink bitter.
A gentle press and twist method works best. This technique ensures you get the most flavor from the fruits and herbs without releasing unwanted bitterness. Trust me, it’ll make a huge difference in your cocktails!
Why Bourbon Works So Well in Fruity Cocktails
You might not immediately think of bourbon when mixing a fruity cocktail, but let me tell you—it’s a match made in heaven. The rich, caramel-like notes of bourbon pair perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries and the tartness of kiwi.
The bourbon adds depth and complexity to the cocktail, while the fresh fruit brings in a refreshing lightness. It’s that balance of bold and fresh that makes this drink stand out.
Kiwi & Strawberry Bourbon Smash
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Strainer
- Knife and cutting board
- Glass (preferably a rocks glass)
Ingredients
- 2 ripe kiwis peeled and sliced
- 4-5 fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Soda water optional
- Mint sprig and sliced fruit for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the kiwi slices, strawberries, and mint leaves until the fruit is well mashed and the mint releases its aroma.
- Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker halfway with crushed ice, then shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until everything is well combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with more crushed ice.
- Top with soda water if you want a lighter, fizzier version, or enjoy it as is for a stronger flavor.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of kiwi or strawberry for that extra pop of color and flavor.
