Easy Springwater Cocktail Recipe

As the warmer months approach and we start spending more time outdoors, I wanted to share one of my favorite springtime drink recipes. The Springwater cocktail is the perfect light and breezy beverage to enjoy on a sunny afternoon.

With just a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your home, this cocktail comes together in minutes.

Light gin serves as the base spirit, brightened with tart lemon juice and hints of honey. best of all, it’s finished with bubbly sparkling water for a crisp, effervescent finishing touch. The result is a smooth and nourishing mix that tastes almost like a spritzy lemonade.

Springwater Cocktail Recipe

Whether you’re relaxing in the backyard or having friends over for a laidback gathering, the Springwater cocktail is a wonderful option to help celebrate the arrival of spring.

Gin

For the base spirit of this cocktail, I like to use a light and crisp gin. My personal favorite is Bombay Sapphire as I find its clean juniper flavor lends itself beautifully to the bright lemon and honey elements in this drink. I also use it in wet pussy shot. However, any British or London dry-style gin will work well.

Not a Gin Fan? No Problem! If gin isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for another spirit. Here are some substitutes:

• Vodka: This neutral spirit won’t compete with the other flavors, making it a good choice if you prefer a subtler base.
• White Rum: A touch of sweetness from white rum can add a nice twist. Just remember, rum has a slightly different flavor profile than gin, so the overall taste will vary a bit.

Springwater cocktail with vodka offers a lighter and slightly less botanical flavor profile compared to the gin version. Since vodka has a more neutral flavor compared to gin, you might prefer a slightly higher ratio of lemon juice for a more balanced tartness. Experiment to find your perfect balance!

No matter what spirit you choose, use about the same amount (2 ounces) as the recipe calls for gin.

Lemon juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to delivering the right balance of acidity. I typically squeeze 1 medium sized lemon to yield about 1 ounce (30ml) of juice.

You can also use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is always best if possible. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand that doesn’t have any added sugars or preservatives. Aim for about 1 tablespoon (or half the amount you’d use for fresh juice) to achieve a similar level of tartness.

Honey

I choose a mild-flavored honey, such as clover honey. Using 1 tablespoon offers just the right amount of residual sweetness to offset the tart lemon without being overpowering. Feel free to adjust to taste – you can also substitute simple syrup if you don’t have honey on hand.

Looking for a Honey Substitute? If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use simple syrup instead. Simple syrup is just equal parts sugar and water dissolved together. Start with 1 tablespoon of simple syrup and adjust to your taste.

Sparkling water

Any brand of sparkling water or soda water is suitable for topping off the cocktail. The bubbles provide effervescence and dilution to cut through the other flavors. Make sure to use high-quality sparkling water for the best taste.

No Sparkling Water? Club Soda Will Do! If you don’t have sparkling water, club soda is a perfectly acceptable substitute. It has a similar level of carbonation, although it might not have the same subtle mineral flavor as some sparkling waters. I also use it in Butterfly Pea Flower Cocktail.

Lemon slice

A thin wedge of lemon makes the ideal garnish, expressing its oils over the drink and adding another layer of bright citrus appeal. Omit if you prefer, or substitute a lime wedge for variation.

For a fun twist, you can try other garnishes like a sprig of mint, a few fresh berries, or even a cucumber slice!

Tips and tricks

When I’m mixing up a batch of Springwater cocktails, here are a few things I keep in mind to ensure they turn out tasting their best:

Use quality ingredients – As with most drinks, using fresh, high-quality ingredients like fresh lemons and a good brand of gin will make a big difference in the overall flavor. I like to invest a little extra in the base items.

Chill ingredients – Make sure the gin, lemon juice and honey are chilled before blending the cocktail. This helps the ingredients incorporate smoothly without diluting too much. I like to have these ready in the fridge.

Top it off cleanly – When topping with sparkling water, pour it slowly and gently down the side of the glass to preserve the effervescence. Too much stirring can cause it to lose its fizz.

Serve cold – For best enjoyment, be sure to serve the Springwater cocktail ice cold. I like to pour the mixture over fresh ice in the glass before adding the final sparkling water topper.

Chill Your Glasses

For an extra refreshing experience, start by placing two highball glasses in the freezer for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, fill them with ice and water while you prepare the cocktail.

Prepare the Honey

Honey can be a bit thick and difficult to dissolve completely. To make things easier, you have two options:

• Warm the Honey: Add the honey to a small microwave-safe bowl and heat for 10-15 seconds on low power, just until it loosens up. Be careful not to overheat!
• Use Liquid Honey: If you have liquid honey, you can skip this step.

Double Shaking (Optional)

For a truly professional touch and an incredibly smooth texture, try a double-shake technique. After your initial 15-second shake with ice, strain the mixture into a separate container.

Then, add the strained mixture back to the shaker without ice and shake again for about 5 seconds. This creates a silky smooth texture and a frothy layer on top of the drink.

Dry Shake (Optional)

If you’re using honey that dissolves easily, you can try a dry shake. This technique helps to emulsify the honey with the other ingredients, creating a richer and more cohesive flavor profile.

Simply add all the cocktail ingredients (except the sparkling water) to the shaker without ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. Then, add ice and continue with the normal shaking process.

Springwater Cocktail Variations and Twists

There are so many lovely ways to introduce new flavors to the basic Springwater cocktail recipe. With some simple adjustments, you can transform it to suit different occasions, palates or what fresh ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few of my favorite twists on the classic springtime drink:

Lime Springwater

I really enjoy the bright twist of lime in this variation. Where lemon adds brightness, lime infuses the cocktail with a slightly sweeter and subtropical flair.

To make it, follow the regular recipe but substitute 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice in place of the lemon. I find limes pair especially well with gin, cutting through its herbal notes with an extra layer of citrus zip.

The lime springs the drink straight into summer mode. You could also add a thin slice of lime to garnish instead of lemon for a coordinated presentation.

Give this twist a try on hotter days when you crave something cooling with an island escape vibe. The lime takes the Springwater to a whole new level!

Berry Springwater

Fresh berries add a pop of color and fruity taste to this version. I like to muddle 3-4 strawberries, raspberries or blueberries in the bottom of a cocktail shaker before building the drink. Doing so helps release all of their natural sweet-tart juices and flavors into the liquid.

After shaking, carefully double strain the mixture to remove any fruit solids so you’re left with a rosy-hued cocktail.

Even with the berries removed, their essence remains imparted in the drink. I find strawberries pair especially well, but raspberries or blueberries work too depending on what’s ripe.

No matter the berry you choose, this twist transforms the Springwater into a seasonal, fruit-forward enjoyment.

Honey-Mint Springwater

Nothing says spring like the sweet aroma of fresh mint. In this variation, I like to muddle around 4-5 mint leaves with the honey at the bottom of the shaker before adding the other ingredients.

Gently crushing the leaves releases their natural oils into the drink, subtly infusing it with a cool minty freshness. The mint also marries beautifully with the honey, taking the edge off its sweetness.

After building the cocktail as usual and shaking well, I finely strain it once more to remove any leftover mint flecks.

The result is a light, cleansing cocktail with an herbal mint note dancing amongst the other springtime flavors. It’s especially refreshing after a heavy meal.

The hint of mint leaves your palate feeling revived, just like the season itself. Giving this twist a try on a warm night outdoors is sure to lift your spirits.

Spiced Springwater

For those seeking just a touch of warmth, try adding a spice like ginger or cinnamon. I find around 1⁄4-1⁄2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root steeps just right in the shaker before building the drink. Its subtle heat contrasts beautifully with the cocktail’s tart-sweet flavors. Also try my favorite recipe of a fruity and spicy cocktail named as Rusa drink.

As with the mint variation, I strain the ginger solids out afterwards for a clean sipping drink. Or for a festive winter warmer, use the smallest strip of cinnamon bark similarly.

Either way, a bit of spice enhances the seasonal spring imbibing experience. The spices liven up the Springwater with their distinct aromatic profiles. So give this twist a go for extra coziness, especially when the weather turns a bit chilly again.

You can check my recipes of spicy passion fruit margarita and spicy ranch water if you want to try some spicy cocktails.

Springwater cocktail recipe with sprite

While Sprite isn’t the traditional choice for a Springwater Cocktail, you can certainly create a refreshing twist using it! Here’s a recipe for a Springwater Cocktail with Sprite:

Ingredients (for 1 serving):

• 2 oz (60 ml) Gin (or vodka, white rum)
• 1 oz (30 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Honey (or simple syrup)
• Sprite (to top up)
• Lemon Slice (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-4 from the original Springwater Cocktail recipe (fill shaker with ice, add gin/lemon juice/honey, shake, strain into chilled glass).
2. Top the drink with chilled Sprite instead of sparkling water, leaving some space at the rim for garnish.
3. Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy your Springwater Spritzer!

Notes:

The Sprite will add a significant amount of sweetness compared to sparkling water. You might want to use less honey or simple syrup (start with 1/2 tablespoon and adjust to taste).

Sprite doesn’t have the same level of carbonation as sparkling water. You might need to add a bit more Sprite to achieve your desired level of fizz.

Consider a squeeze of lime juice alongside the lemon juice for a more complex citrus flavor profile.

This Springwater Spritzer offers a lighter and sweeter alternative to the classic Springwater Cocktail. It’s perfect for those who prefer a less tart and more citrusy drink.

Alcohol-Free “Springwater” Mocktail

For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, this mocktail twist on the Springwater cocktail is perfectly refreshing.

Start by omitting the gin and instead using equal parts club soda or plain seltzer water. Then proceed with the other ingredients as usual, such as 1 oz lemon juice and 1/2 tbsp honey shaken together over ice.

Taste and adjust the honey amount based on your preference – some may want less or none for a more tart lemon-lime flavor profile. Top with the bubbly club soda. This alcohol-free version still retains the crispness from the carbonation and acidity from citrus.

I find club soda makes for a better replica than plain seltzer, as it has those additional mineral notes that help replicate the gin’s drying quality.

Garnish with a lemon wheel or lime wedge for extra visual appeal. Best of all, now anyone can enjoy a tasty spring drink, regardless of if they imbibe alcohol.

It’s a great option for kids, designated drivers or those observing Dry February/January. Even without the gin, the “mocktail” still delivers that hit of refreshment we look for after a long winter. So don’t let non-drinkers feel left out of the seasonal fun – share this crisp spring sparkler with them too!

Serving tips for this cocktail

When hosting friends or family, how you present your Springwater cocktails can make all the difference in enhancing their enjoyment. Here are some of my favorite tips for proper serving:

A clean glass is so important for allowing your guests to fully appreciate not only the taste but also the visual appeal of these effervescent drinks. I like to chill my preferred highball or collins glasses in the fridge beforehand so the drinks stay cold for longer. A smear of lime around the rim also adds a touch of freshness and color to each serving.

Ice, ice, baby! Nothing ruins a crisp cocktail like warm ice watering it down. I make sure to fill the glasses with plenty of large, chilled cubes before building each drink directly over top. This keeps proper dilution in balance while also allowing for elegant presentation.

For parties, I like to set up a build-your-own bar so guests can add their own mixers and garnishes to taste. Sodas, juices, berries and more displayed around a larger pitcher of the batched cocktail base makes for an interactive serving experience.

Finally, don’t forget the garnish! A curled-up lime or lemon wheel placed artfully on the edge of the glass takes a drink from good to goblet-worthy. It ties together the visual in a way that hints at the fresh flavors within.

Food Pairings for Springwater Cocktails

The light and refreshing nature of Springwater cocktails make them extremely versatile to enjoy with a variety of bites. Here are some of my favorite suggestions for snacks and small plates to serve:

Fresh Seafood

Option like chilled shrimp or a ceviche are natural companions, emphasizing the drink’s crisp tartness and acidity. The briny seafood flavors also balance nicely with the botanical gin notes. I love to make a simple lemon-dressed shrimp to serve alongside for a taste of the ocean.

Fresh Vegetables and Dip

Crudités like carrot sticks, celery ribs, cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices served with a creamy herb dip or spiced hummus allow guests to enjoy the cocktail while snacking on healthy veggie goodness. The natural flavors in a Springwater were made to pair with fresh plants from the farmers market.

Flatbreads and Bruschetta

Thin-crust pizza, toasted breads with toppings, or crostini spread with garlic confit, goat cheese and seasonal sprouts provide substantial nibbles. Savory elements in dishes like these cut through the natural acidity of the drink for balanced sipping.

Salads and Slaw

Light summer salads with mixed greens, rainbow vegetables and herbs dressing work beautifully. So does a refreshing coleslaw or citrus salad. The effervescence of the cocktail cleanses the palate between bites of chilled, crunchy crudités and tossed produce.

Sweets and Pastries

For a sweet finish, serve the cocktail alongside floral honey scones, lemon curd tarts or fresh berry crepes. The acidic-sweet profile pairs deliciously with a touch of something sweet without feeling too indulgent after a lighter meal.

From appetizers to desserts, the Springwater cocktail complements a wide variety of recipes suited for warm weather enjoying. Simply curate a selection of snacks that highlight the fresh spring flavors within the drink.

Nutrition Facts

Springwater drink is relatively low in calories and fat, but it does contain some sugar from the honey. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can adjust the amount of honey used or substitute with a sugar-free alternative.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for a single serving of the Springwater Cocktail made with gin:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	Approximately 150 kcal
Total Fat	0 grams
Saturated Fat	0 grams
Cholesterol	0 milligrams
Sodium	Minimal amount
Carbohydrates	Around 15 grams
Sugar	Varies (around 12 grams from honey)
Fiber	Negligible amount
Protein	Negligible amount

These are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used (brand of gin, honey type, etc.).

The exact amount of sugar will depend on how much honey you use. If you substitute vodka or white rum for gin, the nutritional information will be slightly different. If you use simple syrup instead of honey, the sugar content will likely be slightly higher.

Dietary Considerations

Keto:

• Honey is high in carbs, so it’s not suitable for a strict keto diet. You can substitute with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preference, as these sweeteners are much more concentrated than honey.
• Be mindful of the specific brand of gin you use. Some gins may contain trace amounts of carbohydrates from added botanicals. Check the label to ensure it fits your keto macros.

Gluten-Free:

The Springwater Cocktail is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used are gluten-free certified. Double-check the labels of your gin, honey (some processed honeys may contain additives), and any flavored sparkling water you might use.

Vegan:

This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Gin, lemon juice, honey (a natural product), and sparkling water are all vegan ingredients.

Sugar-Conscious:

Reduce or eliminate the honey and use a sugar-free alternative like stevia or erythritol. You can also use a smaller amount of honey and adjust the sweetness with a few drops of liquid stevia.

If you have any allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients, be sure to adjust the recipe accordingly.

How Much Alcohol Does a Springwater cocktail Contain?

The exact amount of alcohol in a Springwater Cocktail depends on the alcohol by volume (ABV) of the gin you use. However, we can estimate it based on a standard gin (around 40% ABV).

A Springwater Cocktail recipe typically uses 2 oz (60 ml) of gin. With a 40% ABV gin, this translates to 2 oz x 40% ABV = 0.8 oz (24 ml) of pure alcohol. A Springwater Cocktail made with a standard recipe typically counts as one standard drink.

A standard Springwater Cocktail with a 40% ABV gin would be considered a moderate-strength drink in terms of alcohol content. For strong and bold cocktail lovers, I recommend Dancing bear drink.

Can you store Springwater cocktail?

It’s not recommended to store a pre-made Springwater Cocktail for extended periods due to a few factors:

Dilution: The sparkling water in the cocktail will continue to lose its fizz over time, making the drink flat and less refreshing.

Flavor Degradation: Citrus juice can become bitter if left for too long, affecting the overall taste of the cocktail.

Honey (or Simple Syrup) Dispersal: Honey or simple syrup might not stay fully incorporated throughout the drink, potentially leading to uneven sweetness.

Storage options

However, there are ways to prepare some elements in advance for quicker assembling of fresh Springwater Cocktails:

Pre-Measured Ingredients: Prepare individual portions by measuring out the gin, lemon juice, and honey (or simple syrup) in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Citrus Juice: If you prefer freshly squeezed lemon juice, you can squeeze and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that freshly squeezed juice may lose some of its vitamin C content over time.

Make the cocktail in batches if needed, but plan to consume it within a short timeframe (ideally within an hour or two).

So, Did you try this Springwater cocktail? We’d love to hear about your mixology adventures! Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

FAQS

How Does the Springwater Cocktail Taste?

The Springwater Cocktail is a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors. The gin adds a subtle juniper note, complemented by the brightness of fresh lemon juice.

Honey or simple syrup provides a touch of sweetness, while the sparkling water creates a light and bubbly finish. Overall, it’s a clean, crisp, and citrusy drink that’s perfect for warm weather.

What Type of Gin is Preferred for a Springwater Cocktail?

Any type of gin can work in a Springwater Cocktail, but a London Dry Gin is a popular choice. These gins typically have a balanced flavor profile with juniper notes, citrus peel botanicals, and a hint of spice.

They won’t overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail and will create a refreshing base. Feel free to experiment with different gins to find your favorite flavor combination!

Can This Cocktail Be Made in a Batch for Parties?

Absolutely! The Springwater Cocktail is easily scalable for parties. Simply multiply the recipe ingredients based on the number of servings you need. Prepare the gin, lemon juice, and honey (or simple syrup) in advance and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, combine the measured ingredients in a pitcher with ice and top with chilled sparkling water. This allows for easy batch preparation while ensuring your guests enjoy a fresh and bubbly cocktail.

Can I substitute the honey in the Springwater Cocktail?

Absolutely! Here are some options:

Simple Syrup: A common substitute for honey. Use the same amount (2 tablespoons) but remember simple syrup is sweeter, so you might need to adjust to taste.

Agave Nectar: Offers a slightly different sweetness profile with a touch of floral aroma. Start with the same amount as honey and adjust to your liking.

Sugar: If you’re in a pinch, you can use granulated sugar. However, it won’t dissolve as easily as the other options. Add it to the shaker with a little warm water to help it dissolve before shaking.

Is this cocktail strong?

The Springwater Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink, not considered a strong cocktail. A standard recipe uses 2 oz of gin, which falls within the typical range for a single serving cocktail.

However, the actual alcohol content can vary depending on the ABV of your gin. Remember to drink responsibly and be mindful of your own tolerance.