Tom Collins Recipe | Classic Gin Cocktail Instructions, Nutrition

The Tom Collins is a timeless cocktail that evokes images of lively summer parties, elegant gatherings, and relaxed weekends. With its refreshing mix of gin, lemon, sugar, and soda water, this effervescent drink offers the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The origins of the Tom Collins date back to the mid-19th century, and it has stood the test of time as one of the most beloved gin-based cocktails.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just beginning your cocktail journey, mastering the Tom Collins recipe is a must. Its simplicity and classic taste make it a go-to drink that appeals to a wide range of palates. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to create the perfect Tom Collins — from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to nutritional information and helpful tips.

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Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used.

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Tom Collins Recipe

Prep Time

• 5 minutes

Active Time

• 5 minutes

Resting Time

• 0 minutes

Total Time

• 5 minutes

Servings

• 1 cocktail

Cuisine

• American

Course

• Beverage / Cocktail

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Equipment Needed

• Highball glass (or Collins glass)

• Cocktail shaker (optional)

• Jigger or measuring tool

• Stirring spoon

• Ice cubes

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Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) London dry gin

• 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 0.75 oz (22 ml) simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio)

• Club soda, to top

• Ice cubes

• Lemon wheel or slice, for garnish

• Maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Your Glass:

   • Fill a Collins glass or highball glass with ice cubes to chill it while you prepare the cocktail.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a cocktail shaker (optional for better mixing) or directly in the glass, combine the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake or Stir:

   • If using a shaker, shake lightly for about 10 seconds.

   • If mixing in the glass, stir well with a long spoon until fully combined.

4. Top with Soda:

   • Top off the mixture with club soda. About 2 to 4 oz depending on your taste preference.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry for a classic touch.

   • Serve immediately with a straw or sipping directly from the glass.

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Tips for the Perfect Tom Collins

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a world of difference compared to bottled varieties.

• Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of simple syrup according to your taste — a little less if you prefer a more tart drink.

• High-Quality Gin: A good London dry gin will bring out the botanicals and create a more flavorful cocktail.

• Chill Your Glass: Keeping the glass cold ensures your Tom Collins stays refreshing longer.

• Homemade Simple Syrup: Making simple syrup at home (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) guarantees a cleaner taste.

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Variations of the Tom Collins

The beauty of the Tom Collins lies in its adaptability. Here are a few popular variations:

• Vodka Collins: Substitute gin with vodka for a cleaner, crisper flavor.

• Tequila Collins: Use tequila instead of gin for a southwestern twist.

• John Collins: Traditionally made with bourbon instead of gin.

• Elderflower Collins: Add a splash of elderflower liqueur for a floral note.

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History of the Tom Collins

The Tom Collins has a playful origin story tied to an old hoax from New York in the 1870s. Known as the “Tom Collins Hoax,” it involved tricking friends by telling them that a man named Tom Collins was speaking ill of them at a nearby bar, prompting them to rush off in search of the phantom offender — and often leading them to order the eponymous drink. The cocktail itself likely evolved from earlier gin punches popular in England, but it gained significant traction in America and became a staple of cocktail culture by the late 19th century.

The first written record of the drink appeared in Jerry Thomas’ 1876 edition of The Bartender’s Guide, one of the first cocktail recipe books ever published. Since then, the Tom Collins has remained a beloved classic.

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Why the Tom Collins Is Perfect for Any Occasion

• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need rare or expensive ingredients to make it.

• Quick to Prepare: No complicated techniques — just mix, pour, and enjoy.

• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness, tartness, or even the spirit to fit your taste.

• Light and Refreshing: It’s not too heavy, making it ideal for daytime events, brunches, or summer evenings.

• Elegant Presentation: A tall, fizzy cocktail with a bright garnish always looks inviting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gin should I use for a Tom Collins?

A London Dry Gin is traditionally used for its crisp and juniper-forward flavor. Brands like Beefeater, Tanqueray, or Bombay Sapphire are excellent choices.

Can I prepare a Tom Collins ahead of time?

You can premix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance. However, add the club soda just before serving to preserve the carbonation.

How do I make simple syrup at home?

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.

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Conclusion

The Tom Collins recipe is a cocktail classic for good reason: it’s refreshing, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a lazy afternoon, or just looking to treat yourself, this simple yet sophisticated drink is always a good choice. By following this guide and using fresh, quality ingredients, you can create a Tom Collins that’s just as good — or even better — than one you’d find at a professional bar.

Raise a glass to timeless flavors and good company. Cheers!