Classic Collins and Alternative Collins Recipes

Illustration by Paulette Wooten

Prep time: 5 minutes Serves: 1

Ingredients for Classic Collins:

• 2 oz. gin

• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 oz. simple syrup

• Club soda or sparkling water

• Ice

• Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry (for garnish)

Instructions for Classic Collins:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.

2. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled Collins glass.

3. Top off the drink with club soda or sparkling water.

4. Gently stir to mix and garnish with a lemon wheel and maraschino cherry. Enjoy!

Alternative Collins Recipes:

Vodka Collins: Replace gin with vodka for a lighter, more neutral flavor.

Tequila Collins: Swap out the gin for tequila and use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a zesty twist on the classic.

Whiskey Collins: Substitute gin with your favorite whiskey or bourbon for a richer, deeper flavor profile.

Elderflower Collins: Add 1/2 oz. of elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain) to the classic recipe for a floral, aromatic touch.

Cucumber Collins: Muddle a few slices of cucumber in the cocktail shaker before adding the other ingredients for a refreshing and crisp variation.

Spicy Collins: Muddle a slice of jalapeño or serrano pepper in the cocktail shaker before adding the other ingredients for a spicy kick.

Feel free to mix and match these alternative suggestions or create your own unique Collins drink to suit your taste preferences. Cheers!