7 Perfect Pink Gin Recipes: Delicious
Gin has been a popular spirit for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 17th century in Holland. It wasn’t until the 19th century, however, that pink gin became popular.
During this time, sailors in the British Royal Navy would mix their gin rations with angostura bitters to help cure seasickness. The result was a pink-hued gin that became known as “pink gin.”
Eventually, pink gin made its way back to shore and became a popular cocktail choice in bars and pubs throughout England. While it’s not clear who specifically invented the drink or when it first appeared on menus, we do know that it has been enjoyed by gin lovers for over a century.
Ingredients
Servers: 1
Classic Pink Gin Recipe
Taster’s Guide Tip 233: Pink Gin Recipes
The classic pink gin recipe was initially created by British sailors in the 19th century as a remedy for sea sickness. The addition of Angostura bitters to gin was believed to help alleviate the symptoms of nausea and dizziness experienced while at sea. Over time, it became a popular cocktail enjoyed not just for its supposed medicinal properties but also for its distinct flavor and appealing pink color. The history of the pink gin cocktail showcases the ingenuity and creativity that can arise from necessity, as sailors found a way to enhance their gin-drinking experience even in challenging conditions.
Directions
- Begin by chilling your glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Once chilled, remove the glass from the freezer and add a handful of ice cubes to it.
- Pour gin into the glass.
- Add Angostura bitters on top of the gin.
- Stir the mixture gently with a bar spoon for about 5 seconds to ensure the flavors are well combined.
- Let the cocktail sit for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel or an orange slice, if desired.
- Serve your classic pink gin cocktail and enjoy!
Explanation of What Pink Gin Is
Pink gin is simply regular gin that has been flavored with bitters to give it a slightly pink tint and unique taste. Originally made with just angostura bitters, today’s pink gins can be flavored with any number of botanicals such as fruits and herbs like strawberries or basil.
Pink gin is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks but is also commonly used as the base for cocktails like G&Ts and martinis. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for any occasion – from elegant dinner parties to casual get-togethers with friends.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just looking for something new to try at home, exploring different variations of this classic cocktail is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. So why not give it a try?
Information about Ingredients
One of the reasons pink gin has become so popular in recent years is its versatility. While the classic recipe only calls for two ingredients, there are many different ways to add your own personal touch to this delicious cocktail. Here are some of the key ingredients you’ll need to make your own pink gin at home.
Gin
The first and most important ingredient you’ll need is a good quality gin. Since the flavors of the other ingredients will be added to this base spirit, it’s important to choose a gin that you enjoy on its own. Look for a smooth and full-bodied gin with plenty of botanical notes that will complement the bitters and other flavorings you’ll be adding.
Bitters
Bitters are what give pink gin its distinctive taste and color. Traditionally, Angostura bitters were used in this cocktail, but nowadays there are many different types of bitters available that can be used to create unique flavor profiles. Some popular options include grapefruit bitters, orange bitters, and peach bitters.
Fruits and Herbs for Flavoring
One of the best things about making your own pink gin is that you can experiment with different fruits and herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Some common options include strawberries, raspberries, grapefruit peel, lavender flowers, rosemary sprigs, or even spicy jalapeno peppers.
The possibilities are endless! Just make sure to use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact.
Whether you’re new to making cocktails or an experienced mixologist looking for a fresh twist on an old classic, making your own pink gin at home is easy and fun! With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity in the kitchen, you can create delicious cocktails perfect for any occasion.
1. Classic Pink Gin Recipe (Recipe above)
Pink gin is a classic cocktail that originated in the 19th century. It is made by adding a few dashes of bitters to gin, which gives it the pink color and unique flavor. The creation of this cocktail was inspired by sailors who discovered that the addition of bitters to their gin helped to cure sea sickness.

Variations of Pink Gin Recipes
If you’re looking to add a unique twist to your classic pink gin recipe, there are plenty of variations to explore. Here are some of our favorite fruity, floral, and spicy pink gin recipes that will surely impress:
Fruity Pink Gin Recipes
For a fruity twist on the classic pink gin recipe, try adding fresh fruit and herbs. The sweetness of strawberries pairs perfectly with the subtle bitterness of gin, while basil adds a refreshing touch.
2. Strawberry and Basil Pink Gin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz. gin
- 1/4 oz. simple syrup
- 3-4 fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2-3 basil leaves, torn
- Tonic water
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a shaker, muddle the sliced strawberries and torn basil leaves.
- Add ice, gin, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Gently shake the mixture together to combine the flavors.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top up the glass with tonic water.
- Garnish the cocktail with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve and enjoy your refreshing Raspberry Mint Gin Cocktail!
This cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the aromatic freshness of basil. The addition of tonic water adds a fizzy and invigorating touch. It’s a perfect drink to enjoy during the summer or any time you’re in the mood for a delightful and fruity cocktail. Cheers!
3. Raspberry and Mint Pink Gin Recipe You will need:
Ingredients:
- A handful of raspberries
- A handful of mint leaves
- Juice from half a lime
- 50ml gin
- Tonic water (to taste)
Instructions:
- In a glass, muddle the raspberries and mint leaves together until they are slightly crushed and release their flavors.
- Add the lime juice and gin to the glass.
- Stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
- Top up the glass with tonic water to your desired taste and level of fizziness.
- Give it a gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
- Optionally, you can garnish with an extra raspberry or mint sprig for added visual appeal.
- Serve and enjoy your refreshing Raspberry Mint Gin Cocktail!
This cocktail offers a perfect balance of fruity raspberries, aromatic mint, and the refreshing zing of lime. The addition of gin and tonic water creates a delightful and effervescent drink that is sure to be a hit at any gathering or when you simply want to unwind and treat yourself. Cheers!
Floral Pink Gin Recipes
If you’re looking for a more floral twist to your pink gin, try using lavender or rosemary. These earthy herbs pair beautifully with gin’s botanical notes while the hibiscus and elderflower will bring an exotic tropical flavor to your cocktail.
4. Lavender and Rosemary Pink Gin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp dried lavender flowers
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig
- 50ml gin
- Tonic water (to taste)
Instructions:
- In a shaker, crush the dried lavender flowers and fresh rosemary together to release their aromas and flavors.
- Add ice to the shaker, followed by the gin.
- Shake the mixture gently to combine the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
- Sieve the cocktail into a glass filled with ice, using a strainer to remove any lavender or rosemary particles.
- Top up the glass with tonic water to your desired taste and level of effervescence.
- Give the cocktail a gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are well incorporated.
- Optionally, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for an extra touch of aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve and enjoy your delightful Lavender Rosemary Gin Cocktail!
This cocktail combines the floral and herbaceous notes of dried lavender and fresh rosemary with the botanical flavors of gin. The addition of tonic water adds a refreshing fizz to the drink. It’s a sophisticated and aromatic cocktail that will impress your guests or provide a moment of relaxation for yourself. Cheers!
5. Hibiscus and Elderflower Pink Gin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp hibiscus syrup
- 2 tbsp elderflower cordial
- 50ml gin
- Tonic water or soda water (to top off the drink)
- Ice
Instructions: To prepare hibiscus syrup:
- Add hibiscus flower petals to boiling water and let it steep until the water turns a dark red color.
- Strain the liquid and add sugar to create the hibiscus syrup. Set aside.
To prepare the drink:
- In a shaker, combine the hibiscus syrup, elderflower cordial, and gin.
- Shake the mixture vigorously with ice to chill and combine the flavors.
- Strain the cocktail into an ice-filled glass.
- Top off the glass with tonic water or soda water according to your preference for fizziness.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
- Optionally, you can garnish with a hibiscus flower or a slice of citrus for added visual appeal.
- Serve and enjoy your delightful Hibiscus Elderflower Gin Fizz!
This cocktail features the vibrant flavors of hibiscus and the floral sweetness of elderflower, perfectly balanced with the botanical notes of gin. The addition of tonic water or soda water adds a refreshing effervescence to the drink. Sip and savor this delightful and visually striking cocktail. Cheers!
Spicy Pink Gin Recipes
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of spice to your pink gin. Ginger adds a touch of warmth while cardamom brings depth to any cocktail. The combination of cinnamon and clove will remind you of a warm winter evening by the fire!
6. Ginger and Cardamom Pink Gin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 piece of ginger
- 1 tsp powdered cardamom
- 50ml gin
- Tonic water
- Ice
Instructions:
To prepare the ginger and cardamom mixture:
- In a blender, blend the piece of ginger until it forms a coarse pulp-like texture.
- Add the powdered cardamom to the blender and blend again briefly to incorporate the flavors. Set aside.
To make the drink:
- In a shaker, add the gin to the prepared ginger and cardamom mixture.
- Shake the mixture well with ice to chill and combine the flavors.
- Sieve the mix into an ice-filled glass.
- Top up the glass with tonic water to your desired level.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Optionally, you can garnish with a slice of ginger or a sprinkle of powdered cardamom for an extra touch.
- Serve and enjoy your flavorful Ginger and Cardamom Pink Gin Fizz!
This cocktail offers a unique twist with the bold flavors of ginger and the aromatic notes of cardamom, perfectly complementing the gin. The addition of tonic water adds a refreshing fizz to the drink. Sip and savor this delightful and flavorful concoction. Cheers!
7. Cinnamon and Clove Pink Gin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 50ml gin
- Tonic water
- Ice cubes
Instructions: To infuse the gin:
- In a pan, toast the cinnamon stick and cloves on low flame for 2-3 minutes until they become aromatic.
- Add the gin to the same pan and heat it for just a minute, ensuring not to bring it to a boil.
- Strain the infused gin and let it cool.
To make the drink:
- Add ice cubes to an empty glass.
- Pour the strained infused gin into the glass.
- Top up the glass with tonic water.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the flavors.
- Optionally, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of citrus for added visual appeal.
- Serve and enjoy your fragrant Cinnamon and Clove Pink Gin Fizz!
This cocktail incorporates the warming spices of cinnamon and cloves, creating a delightful aroma and flavor in combination with the gin. The addition of tonic water adds a refreshing effervescence to the drink. Sip and savor this unique and aromatic cocktail. Cheers!

Serving Suggestions for Pink Gins
When it comes to serving pink gin, the glassware you choose can be just as important as the ingredients in the drink. For a classic look, serve your pink gin in a coupe glass.
This elegant option is perfect for any occasion and highlights the beautiful color of your drink. Another popular option is a balloon glass, also known as a Copa de Balon.
The large round shape of this glass allows you to add plenty of ice and garnishes, making it ideal for fruity or floral pink gin recipes. When it comes to adding ice to your pink gin, keep in mind that less is often more.
Too much ice can water down your drink and take away from its flavors and aromas. We recommend filling your glass with just enough ice to keep your drink chilled without diluting it too much.
Glassware Options:
– Coupe Glass – Balloon Glass (Copa de Balon)
Garnish Ideas
Garnishing your pink gin can be a fun way to add even more flavor and visual appeal to your drink. Here are some ideas: For fruity recipes:
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries or raspberries) – Citrus wedges or twists (like grapefruit or lime)
– Mint leaves For floral recipes:
– Edible flowers (such as lavender or rose petals) – Cucumber slices
– Basil leaves For spicy recipes:
– Thinly sliced ginger – Star anise
– Cinnamon sticks Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients when garnishing your cocktails for the best results.
Ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to serving suggestions for pink gin. Experiment with different glasses and garnishes until you find the combination that works best for you!
Conclusion
The Perfect Drink for Any Occasion
Pink gin is an incredibly versatile drink that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. It’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy winter night in front of the fire. The fruity, floral, and spicy variations mean there’s a pink gin recipe out there for everyone.
Whether you’re an experienced mixologist or a newbie to the world of cocktails, pink gin is easy to make and always impresses guests. It’s also easy to customize, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your personal tastes and preferences.
Experiment and Have Fun!
The beauty of pink gin is that it’s not just about following a recipe – it’s about experimenting with different flavor combinations and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try something new or add your own twist on classic recipes.
So grab your favorite bottle of gin, some bitters, fruits, and herbs, and start mixing up some delicious pink gins today! With all the different possibilities out there, you’re sure to find a recipe that perfectly suits your taste buds.
Cheers!
Pink gin is more than just a pretty drink – it’s packed full of flavor and can be tailored to suit any occasion or taste preference. From classic recipes to fruity twists and spicy creations, there are countless ways to enjoy this popular cocktail. So next time you’re looking for something fun and refreshing to drink, why not give pink gin a go?
Follow our recipes or create your own signature cocktail – either way, we promise it’ll be delicious! Cheers!