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A cucumber gin collins is one of the most refreshing cocktails you can make for warm weather. It takes the classic Tom Collins and adds fresh cucumber, giving it a crisp, cooling flavor that makes it incredibly easy to drink.
We’ve served this cocktail at outdoor parties and summer events where guests want something light, clean, and not overly sweet. It’s often the drink people switch to after heavier cocktails because it feels refreshing and hydrating while still being a proper cocktail.
What is a Cucumber Gin Collins?
A cucumber gin collins is a refreshing variation of the classic Tom Collins made with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, muddled cucumber, and soda water. It’s light, citrusy, and slightly herbal, making it a perfect summer cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 4–5 cucumber slices
- 2–3 oz soda water
- Ice
- Optional: cucumber ribbon or mint for garnish
How to Make a Cucumber Gin Collins
- Muddle cucumber slices with simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add gin and fresh lemon juice.
- Fill with ice and shake well.
- Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice.
- Top with soda water.
- Garnish with cucumber or mint and serve.
Bartender Tips
- Use fresh cucumber. It should be crisp and not soft.
- Don’t over-muddle. You want juice, not bitterness.
- Use quality gin. Botanical gins enhance the flavor.
- Serve very cold. This drink shines when well chilled.
Variations
- Elderflower cucumber collins: Replace simple syrup with elderflower liqueur.
- Cucumber lime collins: Use lime juice instead of lemon.
- Spiked cucumber collins: Add vodka for extra strength.
- Mocktail version: Use soda water and cucumber with lemon juice.
When to Serve a Cucumber Gin Collins
This cocktail is perfect for summer parties, backyard gatherings, brunch, and outdoor events. Its light and refreshing profile makes it ideal for hot weather when guests want something crisp and easy to drink.
Explore more spring cocktails or browse gin cocktails.
Batch Recipe (8 Servings)
- 16 oz gin
- 8 oz lemon juice
- 6 oz simple syrup
- 1 cucumber (sliced)
- 16 oz soda water
Muddle cucumber and mix with gin, lemon juice, and syrup. Chill, then add soda just before serving.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugar: 7g
More Cocktails to Try
Cucumber Gin Collins FAQs
What is in a gin collins?
A classic gin collins includes gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. The cucumber version adds fresh cucumber for a cooling twist.
What is the difference between a Tom Collins and a gin collins?
A Tom Collins is traditionally made with Old Tom gin, while a gin collins uses modern dry gin. The ingredients are otherwise very similar.
What does a cucumber gin collins taste like?
It’s light, crisp, and refreshing with citrus and subtle cucumber flavor, making it ideal for warm weather.
