This is not your grandmother’s gimlet—unless she’s been sneaking fresh corn into her cocktails and quietly living her best life. The Corn Cob Basil Gimlet is peak summer fun, blending sweet corn, fragrant basil, and crisp gin into a drink that feels like a garden party in a glass.
It’s the kind of cocktail that tastes like your backyard garden threw happy hour and decided the lettuce wasn’t invited.
Why This Gimlet Works
The secret is the basil and corn simple syrup. Sweet, herbal, and just a little unexpected, it transforms a classic gin gimlet into something unforgettable. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like you stumbled onto a family secret from a Midwestern aunt who grows everything herself and always has something chilled in the fridge.
One sip transports you to golden hour on a breezy porch, where the air is filled with laughter, the clink of ice cubes, and the promise of “just one more round.”
Perfect For Summer Entertaining
This cocktail is light, refreshing, and unique, making it the perfect drink for summer gatherings, cookouts, or simply winding down after a long day. If you’re looking for a creative gin cocktail recipe that will impress your guests, the Corn Cob Basil Gimlet is it.
Corn Cob Basil Gimlet
Ingredients
For the Cocktail
2 oz gin (London Dry works beautifully)
¾ oz freshly squeezed lime juice
½ oz basil-corn simple syrup (recipe below)
8 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
Ice
For the Basil-Corn Simple Syrup (yields about 1 cup)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
½ cup fresh corn kernels (from 1 cob)
6 large fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Basil-Corn Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium-high heat.
Bring to a gentle boil, whisking until sugar dissolves.
Add corn kernels and basil leaves; reduce heat to a low simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let cool completely to allow flavors to infuse.
Strain through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding solids. Transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Step 2: Build the Cocktail
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 8 fresh basil leaves to release their aroma (don’t pulverize — just bruise them).
Add gin, lime juice, and basil-corn simple syrup.
Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a fresh basil leaf for fragrance and flair.
Notes
Pro Tip: For a garden-party twist, swap gin for vodka or add a splash of soda water for a lighter spritz-style serve.
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