Tom Collins Recipe

Tom Collins Recipe: A Refreshing Classic Cocktail

Welcome to Cocktail Connexion, your guide to enjoying timeless cocktails. Today we present the Tom Collins, a classic cocktail that embodies simplicity and freshness.

The Tom Collins is the epitome of a classic cocktail: simple, refreshing, and universally loved. With its harmonious blend of gin, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling water, this timeless drink is perfect for sunny afternoons or casual gatherings. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to master the Tom Collins recipe and elevate your cocktail game with this light and invigorating drink.

Ingredients for the Perfect Tom Collins

2 oz gin

1 oz fresh lemon juice

3/4 oz simple syrup

Club soda

Ice

Lemon slices and cherries for garnish

Tom Collins Recipe :

Prepare the shaker: Fill it with ice cubes.
Combine the ingredients: Add 2 oz of gin, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 oz of simple syrup.
Shake vigorously: Shake for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
Serve: Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with club soda: Pour club soda to fill the glass, creating the signature fizz.
Garnish: Add a slice of lemon and a cherry for an elegant touch.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and relish the refreshing taste of your Tom Collins.

Tips to Elevate Your Tom Collins

Chill your glass: Place the glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving for an extra-cold experience.

Experiment with syrups: Replace simple syrup with honey syrup or flavored syrups (like lavender or elderflower) for a unique twist.

Choose the right gin: A London Dry Gin provides a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with floral or spiced gins.

Add fizz with style: Use premium sparkling water or soda for the best effervescence

Tom Collins Variations to Try

1. Vodka Collins

Replace gin with vodka for a smoother, neutral base.

2. John Collins

Use whiskey instead of gin for a richer flavor profile.

3. French Collins

Swap club soda with sparkling wine for a luxurious twist.

4. Berry Collins

Add muddled raspberries or strawberries for a fruity version that adds a pop of color.

The History Behind the Tom Collins Cocktail

The Tom Collins has a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century. Believed to have originated in England, it gained popularity in the United States thanks to its light and refreshing profile. Its name comes from "The Great Tom Collins Hoax," a humorous prank that spread across New York in the 1870s, making the cocktail a playful and iconic choice for all occasions.

Today, the Tom Collins remains a symbol of elegance and simplicity in mixology, enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

FAQs About the Tom Collins

What type of gin is best for a Tom Collins?
A London Dry Gin works best, but you can experiment with other types for different flavor profiles.

Can I make a Tom Collins without alcohol?
Yes! Replace the gin with non-alcoholic gin or a blend of tonic water and a splash of citrus juice for a refreshing mocktail.

What’s the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin Fizz?
Both cocktails share similar ingredients, but a Gin Fizz is shaken with soda water and served without ice, while a Tom Collins is served over ice and topped with soda.

Can I prepare Tom Collins in advance?
You can pre-mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup. Store it in the fridge and add soda just before serving.