CocktailRecipes

Bootlegger Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Bootlegger recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Moonshine
Alcohol 40%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 14g
Prep time 3 minutes

Ever wanted to make the perfect Bootlegger cocktail or just enjoy a refreshing drink? The Bootlegger is a zesty and minty cocktail that’s easy to love. Let’s dive into its flavors, history, and how to make it. Ready to mix things up? ⬇️

History

The Bootlegger cocktail got its name from the Prohibition era when people secretly made and sold alcohol. It was a favorite because the fresh mint and lime could hide the taste of low-quality booze. This drink has since evolved into a beloved classic enjoyed by many.

  • The name “Bootlegger” comes from hiding alcohol in boots during Prohibition.
  • It became popular because its strong flavors masked poorly made alcohol.
  • Today, it’s a symbol of creativity and resilience in cocktail culture.

The taste of a Bootlegger?

A Bootlegger tastes fresh and tangy, with a burst of mint and lime. It’s like a cool breeze on a hot day, making it super refreshing.

I personally love drinking Bootleggers because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Bootlegger

  • The Bootlegger cocktail is often considered a cousin of the Mojito.
  • It’s traditionally made with gin, but variations exist with rum or vodka.
  • The Bootlegger is a great base for experimenting with different herbs and citrus fruits.

Ingredients 📃

  • Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Simple syrup: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Fresh mint leaves: 8-10 leaves
  • Club soda: to top
  • Ice: as needed

A Bootlegger is best served in a **highball glass** because it allows the flavors to blend well and stay cool. Alternatively, a **Collins glass** can also work.

Recipe. How to make Bootlegger 🍹

  1. Muddle the mint leaves with 1 oz (30ml) of simple syrup in a shaker.
  2. Add 2 oz (60ml) of gin and 1 oz (30ml) of fresh lime juice to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
  5. Top with club soda and garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a lime wheel.

Bootleggers can be high in sugar and calories, but you can make a healthier version by using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. The fresh lime juice offers a good dose of Vitamin C, but don’t forget to enjoy it in moderation!

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Food Pairings

Certain foods can make the flavors of a Bootlegger even better. Here are some tasty ideas to try:

Grilled Chicken

The zesty lime and mint in a Bootlegger complement the savory flavors of grilled chicken perfectly.

Seafood

A Bootlegger’s refreshing taste pairs wonderfully with light seafood dishes like shrimp or ceviche.

Fresh Salads

The cocktail’s crisp and clean flavor enhances the freshness of a garden salad, making for a delightful meal.

I really enjoy the taste of Bootleggers—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.

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Bartender Advice

  • *Use fresh mint* for the best flavor.
  • *Shake well* to combine all the ingredients properly.
  • *Adjust the sweetness* to your taste by varying the amount of simple syrup.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Bootlegger, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Bootlegger

  • Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a different twist.
  • Simple syrup: Can be swapped with honey or agave for a natural sweetener.
  • Mint: Try using basil or cilantro for a unique flavor.

Bootlegger Variations

Rum Bootlegger

  • Ingredients: White rum, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, club soda, ice.
  • Recipe: Follow the same steps as the classic Bootlegger, substituting rum for gin.

Fruit Bootlegger

  • Ingredients: Gin, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, mixed berries, club soda, ice.
  • Recipe: Muddle mixed berries with mint and simple syrup in the shaker before adding other ingredients.

Spicy Bootlegger

  • Ingredients: Gin, lime juice, honey, mint, jalapeño slices, club soda, ice.
  • Recipe: Muddle jalapeño slices with mint and honey in the shaker before adding other ingredients.

For a non-alcoholic version, mix lime juice, simple syrup, and mint with club soda and ice. Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel for a refreshing Virgin Bootlegger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of alcohol in a Bootlegger?

Absolutely! You can replace gin with vodka, rum, or even tequila for a different taste.

What makes a Bootlegger different from a Mojito?

While both are minty and refreshing, a Bootlegger traditionally uses gin, whereas a Mojito uses rum.

Can I make a Bootlegger without alcohol?

Yes, a Virgin Bootlegger with lime juice, simple syrup, mint, and club soda is just as delicious!

How can I make my Bootlegger less sweet?

Reduce the amount of simple syrup or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave.

What foods go well with a Bootlegger?

Grilled chicken, seafood, and fresh salads all pair wonderfully with the refreshing flavors of a Bootlegger.

Can I prepare a Bootlegger in advance for a party?

You can mix the ingredients ahead of time but wait to add the club soda and ice until you’re ready to serve.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.
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