Grapefruit Gin Cocktails
Grapefruit Gin Cocktails are a simple mixture of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh grapefruit juice plus tonic to finish. A perfect cocktail for happy hour or a laid-back night in – and one of our new favorites!
Gin Cocktails
Gin is one of those go-to liqueurs that never gets old. It’s crisp, refreshing, and has just enough botanical flavor to make every cocktail feel a little special. Whether you’re mixing it with tonic or just keeping it simple with citrus, gin is always the way to go.
During our hot Texas summers, we also enjoy our Frozen Gin and Tonics. But plan ahead if you’re going to make them. Now let’s talk about this new favorite!
Why This Recipe Works:
- Bright and refreshing – The tartness of grapefruit balances beautifully with the botanicals in gin. The flavor is surprisingly just right!
- Not too sweet – Perfect for those who prefer a crisp, citrus-forward drink instead of heavy, sugary cocktails. That’s us!
- Easy to make – Just a few simple ingredients create the perfect cocktails for sipping.
- Beautiful presentation – These are as pretty as they are tasty. Make them and see for yourself!
- Versatile – Works well for brunch, happy hour, warm summer evenings, or chilly winter nights.
What You’ll Need:
- good quality gin – we use Hendrik’s
- elderflower liqueur – St. Germain
- fresh grapefruit juice – or you can use bottled juice in a pinch
- tonic water – we like the light Fever-Tree brand
- plenty of ice
How to make Grapefruit Gin Cocktails:
Step 1
Squeeze the grapefruit. Slice grapefruit in chunks and use a citrus press to squeeze into a measuring cup. Then strain juice to remove any pulp that has fallen into the juice.
Step 2
Prep glasses and garnishes. If you wanna get fancy, prep two cocktail glasses with grapefruit and lime slices. Then add ice to glasses.
Step 3
Measure liqueurs and juice. To a cocktail shaker, add liqueurs – gin, elderflower liqueur, and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice.
Step 4
Shake and pour. Add plenty of ice to the cocktail shaker and shake shake shake until liquid is ice cold. Then pour evenly between the prepared glasses. Top with some tonic water and add a sprig of mint for a pop of color (if desired).
Recipe FAQs:
Freshly squeezed is best for bright flavor, but high-quality bottled juice works in a pinch.
Yes, you can add a splash of club soda or sparkling wine instead of tonic for a bubbly twist.
A shaker helps mix and chill the drink quickly, but you can stir in a glass with ice if needed.
Fresh grapefruit wedges, a sprig of mint or rosemary, or even a twist of lime add a pretty finishing touch.
Other Delicious Cocktails:
Let’s enjoy these fresh cocktails for happy hour next!
Kitchen Tools Used: (affiliate links)
xoxo ~Sue
Grapefruit Gin Cocktails Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 oz. good quality gin – like Hendrik's
- 2 oz. elderflower liqueur
- 4 oz. grapefruit juice – freshly squeezed
- tonic water – to serve
- grapefruit and lime garnish and lots of ice – to serve
Instructions
- Squeeze the grapefruit. Slice grapefruit in chunks and use a citrus press to squeeze into a measuring cup. Then strain juice to remove any pulp that has fallen into the juice.4 oz. grapefruit juice
- Prep glasses and garnishes. If you wanna get fancy, prep two cocktail glasses with grapefruit and lime slices. Then add ice to glasses.grapefruit and lime garnish and lots of ice
- Measure liqueurs and juice. To a cocktail shaker, add liqueurs and juice – gin, elderflower liqueur, and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice.3 oz. good quality gin, 2 oz. elderflower liqueur
- Shake and pour. Add plenty of ice to the cocktail shaker and shake shake shake until liquids are ice cold. Then pour evenly between the prepared glasses. Add some tonic water and a sprig of mint for a pop of color (if desired).tonic water
A no doubt hit on a -1 degree night. I can’t wait to try it on an 85 degree night!
Thanks Robbie!
These are a perfect happy hour cocktail, speaking from experience!
Cheers!