Looking for a cocktail that’s fresh, zesty, and just a little bit floral? I’ve been on a serious mission to perfect the Orange Blossom Southside, and I think I’ve finally nailed it. It’s my fun little twist on the classic Southside, but with this gorgeous sunny, botanical spin that I’m completely obsessed with.

I love how it’s super citrusy and minty. The orange blossom gives it this subtle floral note that makes me feel like I’m sipping something fancy without having to try too hard.

Just keep in mind that a little orange blossom syrup goes a long way, so you may want to play with it to fit your tastebuds.

Orange Blossom Southside Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 0.75 ozorange blossom simple syrup (or make your own – RECIPE)
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 4–5 mint leaves

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the mint leaves with the orange blossom syrup and lemon juice.
2. Add gin and ice. Shake well until very cold.
3. Double strain into a coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf.

TIP: Don’t skip the double straining! I learned this the hard way—nobody wants to fish little mint bits out of their teeth while trying to look sophisticated!

Tools for recipe:

• Cocktail Shaker
  • Best shaker for any cocktail
  • Mason Jar cocktail shaker lid
• Coupe Glass
• Fine mesh strainer
• Cocktail strainer
• Jigger or small measuring glass
• Channel Knife (for garnishes)
• Muddler or wooden spoon

Ingredients:

• Orange Blossom Syrup
• Orange Blossom Water

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Orange Blossom Southside Mocktail

When I’m taking a break from the gin but still want something special, I make my Orange Blossom Southside Mocktail. It’s just as refreshing and looks just as pretty in the glass! Plus, my kids can feel fancy as they enjoy it with me.

I swap the gin for either cold white tea or my favorite citrus herbal blend, and sometimes add a tiny splash of soda water when I’m feeling like some bubbles. Trust me, you won’t miss the alcohol!

Ingredients:

• 0.75 oz orange blossom simple syrup (or make your own – RECIPE)
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• 2 oz cold white tea or chilled citrus herbal tea
• Optional: splash of soda water

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint leaves with simple syrup and lemon juice in a shaker.
2. Add cold tea and ice. Shake well until chilled.
3. Double strain into a coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a mint leaf for a clean, fresh look.

NOTE: if you use an herbal tea, be careful how much orange blossom syrup you add so it doesn’t go overboard into the soap zone.

Why You’ll Love the Orange Blossom Southside

• It’s my fresh, floral twist on a classic that always impresses!
• Easy to shake up with simple ingredients you probably already have (ok, so the orange blossom is a little more specific, but still easy to make).
• When I serve these in my vintage coupe glasses, everyone thinks I’ve suddenly become this fancy mixologist. Little do they know it took me all of 3 minutes to make! The mint garnish does all the heavy lifting.

Whether you’re in the mood for the boozy version like me on Friday nights, or sticking to my equally delicious mocktail for Sunday brunches, I promise you’ll be converting your non-gin-drinking friends with this one!