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Pimm's Cup Recipe

Pimm's Cup Recipe

By What’s Baking

The quintessential British summer refresher, bursting with botanical Pimm's No. 1, crisp cucumber, bright citrus, and aromatic herbs in every effervescent sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A tall highball glass filled with a rich amber-hued Pimm's Cup cocktail, ice cubes gently catching golden afternoon light. The drink features a vibrant garden of garnishes - cucumber ribbons spiraling inside the glass, strawberry slices, fresh mint sprigs, and orange half-wheels creating height and dimension. Tiny bubbles from ginger beer cling to the sides of the crystal-clear glass, while condensation forms delicate droplets on the exterior. A metal straw and wooden stirrer stand at attention against a backdrop of dappled sunlight filtering through a garden setting, suggesting the perfect British summer day.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml Pimm's No. 1</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml gin (optional for stronger version)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml ginger beer (or lemonade)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml fresh lemon juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 cucumber slices</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 orange slices</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 strawberries, hulled and sliced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3-4 fresh mint leaves</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 borage flower for garnish (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Highball glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger for measuring</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Fill your highball glass halfway with ice cubes. Using larger ice cubes rather than crushed ice will slow dilution and keep your drink perfectly chilled without watering it down too quickly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Gently muddle one cucumber slice and one mint leaf at the bottom of the glass to release their aromatic oils and flavors. Don't over-muddle the mint as it can become bitter - just press firmly enough to release the essential oils.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Pour 60ml of Pimm's No. 1 over the ice. If you prefer a stronger drink with more botanical complexity, add the optional 15ml of gin at this stage.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add 15ml of fresh lemon juice to bring brightness and balance to the sweet herbal notes of the Pimm's.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Gently pour 120ml of cold ginger beer (or traditional lemonade if you prefer a sweeter, less spicy version) into the glass. Pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Arrange the remaining cucumber slices, orange slices, strawberry slices, and mint leaves in the glass, inserting some between the ice cubes for visual appeal. These aren't just garnishes - they infuse the drink with fresh flavors as you sip.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Stir gently with a bar spoon, being careful not to bruise the herbs or release too much carbonation from the ginger beer. Just 2-3 rotations is sufficient to integrate the ingredients.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Top with a borage flower if available (the traditional Pimm's Cup garnish) or an additional mint sprig. Serve immediately while the drink is perfectly chilled and the bubbles are lively.</li></ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I batch Pimm's Cup for a garden party or larger gathering?

Absolutely! For a party pitcher, multiply the recipe by 8-10 servings. Combine Pimm's, lemon juice and sliced fruits in a large jug, but add ice and ginger beer just before serving to maintain carbonation. Keep chilled and allow guests to help themselves, topping up with ginger beer as needed.

What's the difference between using ginger beer versus lemonade in this classic British cocktail?

Ginger beer adds a spicy depth and less sweetness, creating a more complex flavour profile with a subtle kick. Traditional British lemonade (similar to sprite) makes a sweeter, more approachable version with no spice notes. Both are authentic choices - select based on your preference for sweetness versus spice.

What seasonal variations can I make to the traditional fruit garnishes?

While cucumber and mint are essential, you can adapt seasonally by adding blackberries or raspberries in late summer, apple slices in autumn, or blood orange in winter. Stone fruits like peaches work beautifully in high summer. The key is maintaining a balance of colours and complementary flavours.

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