The Ultimate Refreshing Tom Collins Cocktail Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate guide to crafting the perfect Tom Collins Cocktail! This iconic, crisp, and wonderfully refreshing drink is a timeless classic for a reason. With its bright lemon notes, the botanical depth of gin, and the effervescent sparkle of soda, the Tom Collins Cocktail is pure liquid sunshine in a glass. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting your home bar journey, this simple yet elegant gin cocktail is incredibly easy to master and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to elevate your happy hour!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8 from 2,500 fans)

📸 1100+ photo shares | ☀️ Updated December 2025

 

Why You’ll Love This Classic Gin Cocktail

The Tom Collins is more than just a drink; it’s a statement of refined simplicity. It’s the kind of cocktail that instantly transports you to a sunny patio, a sophisticated brunch, or a relaxed evening gathering. Its balanced profile makes it incredibly versatile – never too sweet, never too tart, just perfectly refreshing. It’s also incredibly easy to scale for a crowd or whip up for a quick solo sip. If you appreciate a light, bright, and invigorating spirit, this is your new go-to.

What You’ll Need for Your Perfect Tom Collins

 2 oz (60ml) Gin (a good quality London Dry works wonders)
 1 oz (30ml) Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
 0.75 oz (22ml) Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio)
 4 oz (120ml) Club Soda, chilled
 Ice
 Lemon wheel or wedge, for garnish
 Maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional, but classic!)

How to Make Tom Collins Cocktail: Step-by-Step Perfection

Ready to mix up some magic? Follow these simple steps for a flawless Tom Collins Cocktail every time.

 

1. Prepare Your Glass: Grab a tall Collins glass (hence the name!) or a highball glass. Fill it generously with fresh ice cubes.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the ice-filled glass, pour in the gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Stir Gently: Give the mixture a gentle stir with a bar spoon for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Top with Soda: Fill the rest of the glass with chilled club soda. A slow pour helps maintain the fizz.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish your beautiful gin cocktail with a fresh lemon wheel or wedge, and if you’re feeling classic, a bright red maraschino cherry. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing bliss of your Tom Collins Cocktail!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

While the classic Tom Collins is perfect as is, a little creativity never hurts!

• Elderflower Collins: Add 0.5 oz of elderflower liqueur for a floral twist.
• Fruity Flair: Muddle a few raspberries, blackberries, or a slice of peach at the bottom of the glass before adding other ingredients for a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
• Herbaceous Notes: Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or basil, or even infuse your simple syrup with herbs for an elevated aroma.
• Ginger Collins: Replace club soda with ginger ale or ginger beer for a spicier kick.
• Batch for a Crowd: Multiply the recipe by the number of servings and mix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher. Chill well. When ready to serve, pour into ice-filled glasses and top with club soda individually to keep it fizzy.

Tom Collins Cocktail Reviews From Our Fans

Sarah M. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This recipe is my summer savior! So incredibly easy and perfectly balanced. I used a high-quality gin and it made all the difference. My friends constantly ask me to make these now!”

Mark T. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“As a fan of classic cocktails, I can confirm this Tom Collins recipe is spot on. The ratios are perfect, resulting in a crisp, refreshing drink that isn’t too sweet. A definite keeper!”

Jessica L. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Never made a Tom Collins before, but this guide was so clear! It took me less than 5 minutes and tasted like it came from a fancy bar. The lemon and gin combo is just divine.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the best gin for a Tom Collins?

A: A London Dry Gin is traditionally used and highly recommended for its classic botanical profile. Brands like Tanqueray, Beefeater, or Hendrick’s work wonderfully.

Q: Can I make simple syrup ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Simple syrup can be made by heating equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Q: What’s the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin Fizz?

A: While similar, a Gin Fizz typically includes egg white for a frothy texture and is often shaken, while a Tom Collins is usually built directly in the glass and topped with club soda for a simpler, less frothy finish.

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

A: For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended. Bottled lemon juice often contains preservatives and can have a less vibrant, sometimes bitter taste that can detract from the cocktail’s freshness.

Conclusion: Sip, Savor, and Enjoy!

There you have it – the quintessential Tom Collins Cocktail, ready to be enjoyed. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the greatest pleasures in life are found in simplicity. So, gather your ingredients, take a moment for yourself, and indulge in this wonderfully balanced and bright gin cocktail. Cheers to good taste and refreshing moments!

Recipe Note: Always drink responsibly. This recipe is for adult consumption only.