Tom Collins cocktail

Tom Collins Cocktail Recipe with Ingredients and Instructions

The Tom Collins is the blueprint for sparkling gin highballs. Dry gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup are shaken ice-cold and lengthened with soda water for a tall, effervescent sipper. Zesty, clean, and endlessly refreshing, this Tom Collins recipe proves how few ingredients can create perfect balance. Serve over ice with a lemon wheel and cherry for a crowd-pleasing classic.

Glass:

Highball

Strength

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Ingredients

1

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and sugar syrup to a shaker with ice.

  2. 2

    Shake for 8–10 seconds until well chilled.

  3. 3

    Strain into a highball filled with fresh ice and top with soda water.

  4. 4

    Give a brief, gentle stir to integrate. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry.

Details

Glass: Highball
Makes: 1 serving
Strength:

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Ingredient Status

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Editorial Notes

More context for the Tom Collins

The Tom Collins combines Gin, Lemon Juice, and Sugar Syrup. These quick notes add context on structure, flavor, and where the drink fits best.

Updated Dec 22, 2025 • 4 ingredients • 4 steps

Build at a glance

This version uses 4 ingredients across 4 steps. For a home bar, that makes it manageable rather than fussy.

What to expect

Expect fresh, effervescent, and citrusy notes. Served in a Highball, the drink lands balanced rather than aggressive and keeps its structure clear.

Best moment

This style fits weekend mixing and reliable home-bar service. If you already enjoy Gin cocktails, it is an easy recipe to keep in rotation.

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