Do you love a classic gin and tonic cocktail? Try a refreshing twist on it with this incredibly easy watermelon gin fizz! This is one of my favorite cocktails for the summer because it’s perfectly balanced, very refreshing, and chilled to perfection. I also love that it’s ready in minutes!
A fizz is a classic cocktail which dates back to the late 1800’s, though it was most popular in the first half the century during the 1900’s.
It’s composed of an alcohol, a carbonated beverage, and typically some form of juice, with citrus being the considered the most traditional.
A gin fizz is simply a cocktail where gin is the selected alcohol for your cocktail, though rum is a common alternative, and vodka has also been rising in popularity.
This watermelon gin cocktail recipe puts a spin on the fizz, using watermelon as the primary juice. It adds a sweet fruity element that’s refreshing but still light, making it perfect for summer!
Of course, to balance out that sweetness and give a nod to the classic preparation, I’ve paired it with lime sparkling water as the carbonated component. However, like most cocktails, you can feel free to change it up if you prefer!
Gin is the perfect compliment to the watermelon without overpowering it. You could also use vodka in this if you’d like for a watermelon vodka fizz! White rum is another good alternative as well.
This watermelon gin fizz is perfect for sipping on during those hot summer months. Relax on the patio or poolside, or serve them up at a backyard barbecue!
With only 3 required ingredients (plus ice), you can make a fizz in just minutes, and get back to lounging that much faster.
3 Ounces fresh watermelon juice (such as Simply Watermelon)
2 Ounces gin
2 Ounces lime seltzer, sparkling water, or club soda
Ice cubes
Lime slices or fresh mint for garnish (optional)
For a Pitcher (Serves 5-6)
2 Cups fresh watermelon juice
1 Cup gin
1 Cup lime seltzer water
Ice cubes
Lime slices or fresh mint for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
If you cannot find prepared watermelon juice, you can make your own! Blend 3-4 cups of fresh watermelon cubes, and strain to remove any large pieces
For a sweeter drink, add 1 Tbsp honey, agave, or simple syrup. For a pitcher, use ¼ – ½ cup sweetener depending on preference
If you prefer your drink less strong, drop the gin to 1 ½ ounces for a single serving, or ¾ cup for a pitcher
The lime seltzer water can be swapped for lemon, plain flavor with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice mixed in, or you can also use ginger ale!
Variations of Watermelon Gin Fizz
Vodka. Use plain, watermelon, or lime vodka in place of the gin to create a watermelon vodka fizz
Non-Alcoholic. Omit the gin entirely to create a non-alcoholic version of a refreshing sparkling watermelon drink for the kids
Herby. Muddle fresh mint or basil leaves, or add them to the top as a garnish for a fresh, herby flavor variation
Different Gin. Try using lime or watermelon flavored gin (such as Seagram’s or Verano) for an extra punch of flavor! You can also use many different brands of regular gin, each with a unique flavor profile to change things up
Use Other Fruits. In addition to watermelon, you can add in other fruits and berries to create a new, unique cocktail. Strawberries, cherries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, cantaloupe, peaches, and plums are some great options
Egg White Foam. Many fizz cocktails call for an egg white (also known as Ramos style), which shakes up to provide a foamy top layer. If you would like this, add an egg white, the watermelon juice, and the gin to a shaker and shake for about 30 seconds. Strain over ice and top with the seltzer water
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Add watermelon juice and gin to a rocks glass, stirring to mix
Fill the glass with ice, and allow the base to chill for about 30 seconds
Top with the lime seltzer water
Garnish with a slice of lime, fresh watermelon, or a mint leaf if desired
For a Pitcher:
Combine watermelon juice and gin up to 24 hours in advance
When ready to serve, mix the lime seltzer water into the watermelon gin mixture and stir gently
Pour into individual glasses filled with ice
What to Serve With Watermelon Gin Fizz
Appetizers
Cucumber sandwiches
Cheese and crackers
Charcuterie boards
Salted nuts
Cream cheese based dips
Smoked salmon
Pate
Fresh fruit
Popcorn
Main Courses
Grilled shrimp
Lamb
Curries
Sushi or sashimi
Fish & chips
Grilled fish
Mussels
Oysters
Desserts
Chocolate
Fudge
There are lots of great things to serve with a watermelon gin fizz! I love serving them alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, strong cheeses, fresh fruit, and salty nuts. It’s the perfect party spread!
Can I Use Frozen Watermelon For Watermelon Gin Fizz?
Yes, you can use frozen watermelon for your watermelon gin fizz. Frozen watermelon acts as a natural ice substitute, preventing dilution.
Just make sure to thaw the frozen watermelon slightly if you’re also blending it for the juice to ensure a smoother consistency.
Can I Make Watermelon Gin Fizz With Other Types of Alcohol?
Yes, you can make watermelon gin fizz with other types of alcohol. Vodka, for instance, provides a cleaner and more neutral base, allowing the watermelon flavor to shine even more.
Alternatively, you can try white rum for a tropical feel or even tequila for a fun and vibrant variation.
How Do I Prevent the Watermelon Pulp From Clogging the Strainer?
If you are making your own watermelon juice, you can prevent the watermelon pulp from clogging the strainer by using a muddler or the back of a spoon to push it against the strainer. This should help alleviate clogging.
You can also use a cheesecloth instead, and twist the fabric to force the liquid through.
Can I Make Watermelon Gin Fizz Without a Shaker?
Yes, you can absolutely make watermelon gin fizz without a shaker. The shaker is only required if you are trying to add an egg white foam topper to the drink for a Ramos-style gin fizz.
The egg white foam is mostly a visual element, and won’t do much to add flavor to the drink.
Can I Prepare a Large Batch of Watermelon Gin Fizz For a Party?
Yes, you can prepare a large batch of watermelon gin fizz for a party. The recipe easily doubles or more for a crowd. Prepare the watermelon and gin mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator.
When you are ready to serve, add the seltzer water and serve in individual glasses over ice.
How Do I Adjust the Fizziness of the Cocktail?
You can adjust the fizziness of your watermelon gin fizz by controlling the amount of club soda or sparkling water you add to the cocktail. For a fizzier drink, add more. If you’d like a milder fizz, use a smaller quantity.
Keep in mind that the fizziness also depends on how vigorously you shake or stir the cocktail before serving.
What Alcohol is in a Gin Fizz?
True to its name, the alcohol in a gin fizz is gin. However, there are many varieties and flavors of gin to try, and each will add a different base flavor profile to your drink.
If you don’t like gin, vodka is the most common substitute for the alcohol.
Recipe Pro Tips
Serve in a rocks glass, highball glass, or even a stemmed glass for a fancier vibe
I recommend chilling the watermelon juice ahead of time, which makes the drink more refreshing and reduces dilution from melting ice
If you want to pack this cocktail to go, mix the watermelon juice and gin in a carafe or thermos, then bring a cooler with cans of sparkling water to top it off before serving!
Storage Tips
To prevent the drink going flat or diluting, I do not recommend storing leftover watermelon gin cocktail
If you would like to prepare your gin fizz in advance, only combine the fruit juice and the gin. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the sparkling water and ice later just before serving
This refreshing and flavorful watermelon gin fizz is the perfect adult beverage for summer. It’s cool, crisp, and the perfect mix of sweet and bubbly.
Explore different varieties of gin and mix and match your own variations to create your favorite! There are so many unique and complex gins to take your drink to the next level.
This watermelon gin cocktail is perfect for hot summer days, as it’s cool and refreshing. Enjoy it poolside, at the beach, or even at your cookout. It’s super easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and delicious. It pairs well with snacks for entertaining or seafood for your beach cookout!
For an even more hydrating option, make sure to check out my Watermelon Cucumber Agua Fresca. It’s a great way to use up any leftover watermelon juice from this cocktail recipe!
Easy Watermelon Gin Fizz Cocktail
This incredibly easy watermelon gin fizz cocktail requires just 3 ingredients and about 5 minutes to put together. It’s a fruity and refreshing alcoholic beverage perfect for summer!
3Ouncesfresh watermelon juice(such as Simply Watermelon)
2Ouncesgin
2Ounceslime flavored seltzer, sparkling water, or club soda
Ice cubes
Lime slices or fresh mint for garnish(optional)
Instructions
Add watermelon juice and gin to a rocks glass, stirring to mix
3 Ounces fresh watermelon juice, 2 Ounces gin
Fill the glass with ice, and allow the base to chill for about 30 seconds
Ice cubes
Top with the lime seltzer water
2 Ounces lime flavored seltzer, sparkling water, or club soda
Garnish with a slice of lime, fresh watermelon, or a mint leaf if desired
Lime slices or fresh mint for garnish
Notes
If you cannot find prepared watermelon juice, you can make your own! Blend 3-4 cups of fresh watermelon cubes, and strain to remove any large pieces
For a sweeter drink, add 1 Tbsp honey, agave, or simple syrup. For a pitcher, use ¼ – ½ cup sweetener depending on preference
If you prefer your drink less strong, drop the gin to 1 ½ ounces for a single serving, or ¾ cup for a pitcher
The lime seltzer water can be swapped for lemon, plain flavor with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice mixed in, or you can also use ginger ale!
Serve in a rocks glass, highball glass, or even a stemmed glass for a fancier vibe
I recommend chilling the watermelon juice ahead of time, which makes the drink more refreshing and reduces dilution from melting ice
If you want to pack this cocktail to go, mix the watermelon juice and gin in a carafe or thermos, then bring a cooler with cans of sparkling water to top it off before serving!
To prevent the drink going flat or diluting, I do not recommend storing leftover watermelon gin cocktail
If you would like to prepare your gin fizz in advance, only combine the fruit juice and the gin. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the sparkling water and ice later just before serving
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any garnishes or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
