Blood Orange Basil Cocktail: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Rum Cocktail
There’s something irresistible about the rich color and vibrant taste of blood oranges. Paired with the fresh aroma of basil, this Blood Orange Basil Cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to any occasion.
Blood oranges give this drink a stunning color, but if you don’t have them on hand, any juicy orange will work beautifully. I love the idea of serving this as a batch cocktail at a dinner party—when I finally get back to hosting, this one is definitely on my menu!
Blood Orange Basil Cocktail Recipe
Serves 1
Ingredients:
- 3 oz rum
- 1 handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 lime (key lime preferred, but any lime works)
- 2 blood oranges (or other oranges)
- Ice
- Extra brown sugar for the glass
- Blood orange peel curl and fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
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Muddle the Basil: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the basil leaves, lime juice, and brown sugar until combined. This releases the basil’s aroma and infuses the cocktail with its fresh flavor.
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Infuse the Rum: Add the rum to the shaker and let it infuse for about 15 minutes to allow the basil and lime flavors to meld with the rum.
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Prepare the Blood Orange Juice: Squeeze the juice of two blood oranges (or any oranges), strain to remove the pulp, and set aside.
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Shake It Up: Add ice to the shaker and shake the infused rum mixture for a few seconds until chilled.
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Prepare the Glass: Add a pinch of brown sugar to the base of your glass for a hint of sweetness with each sip.
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Combine: Strain the rum mixture into the glass, then pour in the fresh blood orange juice.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish off with a blood orange peel curl and a fresh basil leaf for a beautiful, aromatic garnish.
Why This Cocktail Stands Out
This Blood Orange Basil Cocktail is an unexpected yet delicious pairing of flavors. The basil adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the sweetness of the blood orange and the richness of the rum. It’s a cocktail that feels refreshing yet indulgent, perfect for sipping slowly and savoring every flavor.
If you’re feeling creative, try swapping the rum for vodka or gin for a different twist. This cocktail is flexible enough to adapt to your personal taste while maintaining its vibrant character.
Making It a Crowd Favorite
One of the best things about this cocktail is how easily it scales up. For a dinner party, you can prepare a large batch by increasing the quantities and letting the flavors infuse in a pitcher. Just add the blood orange juice and garnish right before serving, and you’re all set to impress your guests with a beautiful and delicious drink.
So whether you’re shaking one up just for you or serving a whole table, this Blood Orange Basil Cocktail is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and let me know if this becomes one of your new favorites!
This cocktail is such a joy to make and share—I hope it adds a splash of color and flavor to your evening. Cheers to finding creative ways to enjoy the beauty of simple ingredients!