Gin Cucumber Cooler Recipe

by | Sep 3, 2025 | Cocktail Recipes

Cucumber Gin Cooler cocktail served in a tall glass with ice cubes, cucumber slices, and fresh mint garnish on a marble bar top with blurred summer background

Cucumber Gin Cooler — crisp, botanical, and ridiculously refreshing. We muddle fresh cucumber with lime, shake with gin, then lengthen with soda for a spa-day vibe that plays well at showers, garden parties, and wellness-themed events.

About This Cucumber Gin Cooler

We first served these at a summertime bridal shower on Long Island. The cucumber ribbons looked fancy, but the trick was simple: we pre-juiced the cucumbers and kept it chilled. When guests arrived, we shook to order and topped with soda—no pulp, no mess, all refreshment.

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Ingredients

  • 2 oz botanical gin (Hendrick’s or similar)
  • 4–5 cucumber slices (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Soda water to top
  • Optional: 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur (for a floral twist)
  • Ice

Steps

  1. Muddle. In a shaker, gently muddle cucumber slices to express juice without pulverizing seeds.
  2. Shake. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup (and elderflower, if using) with ice; shake 10–12 seconds.
  3. Strain. Double-strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Top & garnish. Top with chilled soda water; give a brief stir. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon or wheel.

Bar Tips

  • Clean flavor: Double-strain to keep seeds/pulp out and the drink crystal clear.
  • Balance: If your cucumbers are extra sweet, add 0.25 oz more lime.
  • Ice matters: Tall glass + plenty of fresh ice = longer fizz and chill.

Flavor Pairings

  • Plays well with: mint, basil, elderflower, lemon.
  • Food: tea sandwiches, sushi, citrus salads, light canapés.

Variations

  • Cucumber Basil Cooler: Swap mint for basil, keep everything else the same.
  • Spicy Cucumber: Muddle 1–2 thin jalapeño slices with the cucumber.
  • Low-ABV Spritz: Use 1 oz gin + more soda; garnish big for visual pop.
  • Mocktail: Skip gin; add 2–3 oz cucumber juice + extra soda.

Party Batch (8 drinks)

  • 2 cups (16 oz) gin
  • 1/2 cup (4 oz) fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup (4 oz) simple syrup
  • 1 cup strained cucumber juice (from ~1 large cucumber)

Combine and chill 2–4 hours. To serve, pour ~4 oz over ice in a tall glass and top with soda water. Add a cucumber ribbon to each.

When to Serve

Perfect for showers, spa-inspired events, waterfront happy hours, and wellness-focused menus. Need help on the bar? Hire a bartender and we’ll batch, garnish, and keep service smooth.

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What is in a cucumber cooler?

Ours blends botanical gin, fresh cucumber, lime juice, and simple syrup, then tops with soda water for lift. It’s bright, herbal, and super refreshing.

Can I make a cucumber gin cooler without muddling?

Yes, juice the cucumber in advance and fine-strain. You’ll get the same clean flavor and a crystal-clear pour with faster service

What gin works best with cucumber?

Botanical styles (like Hendrick’s) complement cucumber’s fresh, green notes. A classic London Dry also works if you prefer more juniper bite.

Can I batch this for a party?

Absolutely. Combine gin, lime, simple syrup, and strained cucumber juice. Keep cold and add soda water in each glass at service to preserve fizz.

How do I make a mocktail version?

Skip the gin and increase cucumber juice, then top with sparkling water. It’s just as cooling and perfect for daytime events.