Festive Gin Smash Cocktail with SodaStream

Looks as good as it tastes, this Festive Gin Smash is a thirst-quenching summer cocktail made of three layers – lychee, strawberry and mint. Grab your SodaStream and get the party started.

SERVES: 2

Equipment

• SodaStream drink maker
• Blender
• Mason jar
• Cocktail muddler
• Highball glasses

Ingredients

• 200ml SodaStream sparkling water

For the lychee layer:

• 190g canned lychees, drained
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 90ml gin

For the strawberry layer:

• 500g strawberries, hulled and finely chopped
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Juice of half a lemon
• Pinch of salt

For the mint layer:

• 1 cup crushed ice
• 30 mint leaves, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Fill a SodaStream 1 Litre Bottle with cold water and carbonate.
2. Place all ingredients for the lychee layer in a blender and process until the consistency is similar to a slushie.
3. Place strawberries, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, lemon and salt in a glass jar.
4. Using a muddler, crush and soften the strawberries and spices to release the flavours and aroma. Mix crushed ice and mint in a small bowl.
5. To serve, divide the lychee mixture equally between two 400ml capacity stemless glasses.
6. Divide and ladle the strawberry mixture over the lychee mixture in the glasses. Top with mint and crushed ice.
7. Top each glass with 100ml sparkling water and serve the Festive Gin Smash.

Liked this recipe? Check these out:

• Strawberry Gin Crush Cocktail with Vitamix
• Strawberry Lime Punch