Blackberry Bourbon Campfire Smash

Sweet blackberries, smooth bourbon, fresh lemon and a splash of ginger beer make this Blackberry Bourbon Campfire Smash perfect for outdoor entertaining. It is colorful, refreshing and easy to mix by the glass or prepare as a pitcher for a backyard party.

The rosemary garnish adds an earthy aroma that complements the bourbon and gives the drink a cozy, outdoorsy finish—without making the recipe overly sweet.

Blackberry Bourbon Campfire Smash

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2 cocktails

Ingredients

• 10 fresh blackberries, plus more for garnish
• 4 ounces bourbon
• 1 1/2 ounces fresh lemon juice
• 1 ounce pure maple syrup or honey syrup
• 4 ounces chilled ginger beer
• Ice
• 2 fresh rosemary sprigs
• 2 lemon wheels for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the blackberries, lemon juice and maple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Gently muddle until the berries release their juice. Avoid pulverizing the seeds.
3. Add the bourbon and a generous handful of ice.
4. Shake vigorously for approximately 10 to 15 seconds.
5. Fill two rocks glasses with fresh ice.
6. Strain the blackberry mixture evenly into the glasses. Double-strain it through a fine-mesh strainer if you prefer fewer seeds.
7. Top each drink with approximately two ounces of ginger beer.
8. Stir gently and garnish with blackberries, a lemon wheel and a rosemary sprig.

Add a Smoky Rosemary Garnish

For a fun campfire-style presentation, carefully hold the tip of a rosemary sprig near a flame for just a few seconds until it becomes fragrant. Extinguish it completely before placing it in or beside the drink.

This step is optional. Never leave burning rosemary unattended or place an actively burning garnish inside a glass.

Make It a Party Pitcher

To make approximately eight cocktails, combine the following ingredients in a pitcher:

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 2 cups bourbon
• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey syrup
• 2 cups chilled ginger beer

Muddle the blackberries with the lemon juice and maple syrup. Stir in the bourbon and refrigerate until your guests arrive. Add the ginger beer immediately before serving so the punch stays bubbly.

Serve over ice and garnish each glass with blackberries, lemon and rosemary.

Make It a Mocktail

For a zero-proof Blackberry Campfire Smash, replace the bourbon with strongly brewed chilled black tea or a zero-proof whiskey alternative. Add an extra splash of ginger beer if desired.

The black tea adds body and a slightly tannic flavor that keeps the alcohol-free version from tasting like ordinary fruit punch.

Helpful Tips

• Use ripe blackberries for the strongest color and flavor.
• Frozen blackberries can be used after they have thawed.
• Add maple syrup gradually if you prefer a less-sweet cocktail.
• Use spicy ginger beer for a stronger finish or ginger ale for a sweeter, milder drink.
• Prepare the blackberry mixture ahead, but wait to add ginger beer and ice.
• For a smoother cocktail, strain the muddled fruit through a fine-mesh strainer.
• Chill the glasses before serving to keep the drink colder outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vodka instead of bourbon?

Yes. Vodka creates a lighter, more fruit-forward cocktail. Dark rum also works well with the blackberry, maple and ginger flavors.

Can I use another type of berry?

Yes. Raspberries, blueberries or a combination of berries can replace the blackberries. Taste the mixture before adding more sweetener because different berries have different levels of natural sweetness.

Can I prepare this drink before a party?

You can prepare the fruit, lemon, maple and bourbon mixture several hours in advance. Refrigerate it in a covered container, then add ginger beer and ice immediately before serving.

What food pairs well with this cocktail?

This bourbon cocktail pairs especially well with smoked pork, grilled steak, barbecue chicken, burgers and sharp cheeses. The lemon and ginger help balance rich, smoky foods.

Keep the Drinks and Ice Close to the Party

An outdoor beverage station makes backyard entertaining easier by keeping cold drinks, fresh ice and serving supplies close to your guests. Sunzout offers customizable outdoor kitchens with outdoor refrigerators, beverage coolers, ice makers, sinks and storage options.

Please enjoy responsibly. This alcoholic recipe is intended only for adults of legal drinking age.