The classic Tom Collins cocktail recipe is known for its sparkling charm and balanced flavors, which is why it is a staple for cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just unwinding after a long day, the Tom Collins offers a refreshing escape.
With the help of the Interplay Cocktail mixer set, crafting this timeless cocktail becomes an effortless joy.
The History of the Tom Collins
The Tom Collins cocktail recipe has a storied past, originating in the 19th century. It first gained popularity in England and made its way across the pond to the United States, where it cemented its status as a beloved classic.
The drink’s name is believed to stem from a joke that spread in 1874, leading to its inclusion in bartending guides and menus across the globe.
Over the years, the Tom Collins has evolved, yet its core recipe remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted simplicity.
Ingredients Overview
The beauty of the Tom Collins lies in its straightforward yet perfectly harmonious ingredients.
- Gin: The spirit base, gin adds botanical notes that are crucial to the drink’s character. The best gin for Tom Collins is typically a London Dry Gin, offering a crisp and juniper-forward profile.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, acidic contrast to the gin’s botanicals, adding a layer of refreshing tartness.
- Simple Syrup: A touch of simple syrup balances the lemon’s acidity with a subtle sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Carbonated Water: Topping off with carbonated water adds effervescence that elevates the cocktail, making it light and refreshing.
Tom Collins Cocktail Rcipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Calorie Count: Approximately 200 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 60 ml (2 oz) London Dry Gin
- 30 ml (1 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Simple Syrup
- Carbonated Water, to top off
- Ice Cubes
Method
- Chill the Glass: Begin by chilling a Collins glass with ice.
- Mix: In the Interplay mixology set, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice. Shake well to chill the ingredients thoroughly.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top Off: Gently top off with carbonated water, stirring lightly to integrate.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry for a classic presentation.
With these steps, using the Interplay Cocktail Shaker not only simplifies the process but ensures each Tom Collins is mixed to perfection
Variations of the Tom Collins Cocktail
The Tom Collins is a versatile cocktail, lending itself to numerous variations that can cater to different palates and occasions. Below are some popular twists of the classic recipe.
- Elderflower Collins: Replace the simple syrup with elderflower liqueur for a floral twist. This variation adds a sweet and fragrant dimension to the cocktail, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
- Raspberry Collins: Muddle a handful of fresh raspberries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. The raspberries introduce a fruity and slightly tart flavor, complemented by a vibrant color that’s sure to impress.
- Cucumber Collins: Add a few slices of cucumber to the shaker with the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The cucumber offers a refreshing and cooling taste, ideal for hot days.
Garnishing Options
Garnishes can enhance both the visual appeal and the flavor of your Tom Collins variations:
- For the Elderflower Collins, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a lemon twist to emphasize the cocktail’s floral notes.
- The Raspberry Collins looks stunning with a few whole raspberries on a skewer or floating atop, and a sprig of mint adds a fresh aroma.
- A ribbon of cucumber or a wheel on the rim of the glass is perfect for the Cucumber Collins, adding a touch of elegance and hinting at the unique flavor within.
Celebrating the Tom Collins Cocktail
The Tom Collins cocktail, with its timeless charm and refreshing taste, remains a favourite for good reason.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore one of its delightful variations, the Interplay Cocktail Shaker set ensures that each drink is mixed to perfection, combining ease of use with professional-quality results
