Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe
Think you know how to make a Gin and Tonic? Think again. This isn’t just a drink—it’s a science. Skip the sad, watered-down versions and learn how to craft the crisp, refreshing masterpiece you deserve. Let’s get to it.
Most people mess up Gin and Tonics by drowning them in cheap tonic or using freezer-burnt lime wedges. Not here. This recipe balances botanical gin, premium tonic, and fresh citrus for a drink that’s sharp, bubbly, and impossible to put down.
Bonus? It’s stupidly easy to make. No fancy tools, no obscure ingredients—just a flawless cocktail in under 3 minutes. Your future self will thank you.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes (because you’re not cooking, genius)
Total time: 2 minutes
Servings: 1 (double it if you’re not a quitter)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chill your glass. Fill it with ice and let it sit for 30 seconds. Dump the water—this prevents a weak drink.
- Add the gin. Measure it. Eyeballing leads to regret (or a great night, depending on your goals).
- Squeeze the lime wedge over the glass, then drop it in. Yes, squeezing matters. No, bottled lime juice doesn’t count.
- Top with tonic. Pour slowly to keep the bubbles intact. Stir gently—you’re making a cocktail, not scrambling eggs.
- Garnish. Add a fresh lime wedge, rosemary, or cucumber if you’re fancy. Instagram now or forever hold your peace.
Nutritional Values
- Calories: ~180 (blame the gin)
- Carbs: 12g (tonic’s sneaky like that)
- Sugar: 10g (switch to diet tonic if you’re watching it)
- Alcohol: 14g (you’re welcome)
Storage Instructions

Don’t. Gin and Tonics are meant to be drunk fresh. If you’re storing cocktails, you’ve got bigger problems. But if you must, keep the gin and tonic separate until serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm glassware. A frosty glass = a crisp drink. Physics, people.
- Cheap tonic water. Bad tonic ruins everything. Spend the extra $2.
- Over-stirring. You’ll flatten the bubbles. Gentle is key.
- Skipping fresh lime. Bottled juice is for emergencies only.
Alternatives (For the Rebellious)
- Vodka Tonic: For those who hate flavor.
- Sparkling Water + Gin: Lower sugar, same buzz.
- Herbal Gin: Swap in Hendrick’s and a cucumber slice for a spa-day vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use diet tonic water?
Yes, but know that some purists will side-eye you. IMO, it’s better than skipping the drink entirely.
What’s the best gin for this?
London Dry (like Beefeater or Tanqueray) for classic flavor, or something floral (like Bombay Sapphire) for extra depth.
Why does my Gin and Tonic taste flat?
You probably stirred it like a maniac or used stale tonic. FYI, tonic loses fizz fast—check the expiration date.
Can I batch-make these for a party?
No. Mix them individually unless you want a sad, soggy mess. Trust me.
Is a slice of cucumber really necessary?
Necessary? No. Classy? Absolutely. Do it for the ~vibes~.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a 2-minute escape to a brighter, bubblier place. You’ve got the recipe, the tricks, and zero excuses. Grab a glass, nail the ratio, and thank me later. Cheers (or whatever cool thing bartenders say).