Blackberry Bramble Cocktail Recipe

This Blackberry Bramble Cocktail is a refreshing gin-based drink made with fresh blackberries, bright lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness for balance. It’s vibrant, lightly tart, and perfect for everything from summer gatherings to cozy evenings in.

What Is a Bramble Cocktail?

A Bramble cocktail is a classic gin drink that originated in London in the 1980s. Traditionally made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and crème de mûre, it’s known for its balance of tart citrus and rich berry flavor.

This blackberry-forward version leans into fresh fruit for a brighter, more natural flavor while still keeping the spirit of the original cocktail intact.

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Bramble

• Fresh, vibrant blackberry flavor without being overly sweet
• Balanced and refreshing with bright citrus notes
• Easy to make at home with simple bar ingredients
• Elegant enough for entertaining but approachable for beginners
• Can be adapted for batch cocktails or mocktails

Supplies:

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Collins Glasses
• Toothpick Skewer (for garnish)
• Knife & Cutting Board
• Juicer

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cocktail keeps things simple and intentional.

• Fresh blackberries
• Gin (London dry works best)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Simple syrup
• Crushed ice
• Optional crème de mûre for a more classic bramble flavor

Using fresh lemon juice is essential here—it keeps the cocktail crisp and prevents it from tasting flat or overly sweet.

How to Make a Blackberry Bramble Cocktail

1. Muddle the Blackberries

Add fresh blackberries to a shaker and gently muddle to release their juices without over-crushing the seeds.

2. Add the Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake well until chilled.

3. Strain and Serve

Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. If using crème de mûre, drizzle it over the top for a layered effect.

4. Garnish

Finish with a fresh blackberry or lemon peel for a polished presentation.

Best Gin for a Bramble Cocktail

A classic London dry gin is ideal for this cocktail because it provides structure without overpowering the fruit. Look for something clean and juniper-forward rather than heavily floral or citrus-driven, which can compete with the blackberries.

Tips for the Best Flavor

• Use ripe, fresh blackberries for the best natural sweetness
• Don’t over-muddle—the seeds can add bitterness
• Adjust simple syrup to taste, depending on berry ripeness (try a keto simple syrup or a honey syrup as an option or substitute)
• Crushed ice is traditional and helps mellow the drink as it melts

Variations and Substitutions

• Classic Bramble: Add crème de mûre instead of fresh berries
• Vodka Bramble: Swap gin for vodka for a cleaner profile
• Honey Bramble: Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup
• Mocktail Version: Replace gin with sparkling water or tonic

When to Serve a Blackberry Bramble

This cocktail works beautifully for:

• Spring and summer gatherings
• Dinner parties and happy hour spreads
• Cocktail nights at home
• Brunch menus with a citrus-forward drink option

It’s refreshing enough for warm weather but still elegant year-round.