The Perfect Highball Refreshingly Simple Delicious
Learn how to make a highball the simplest and most refreshing classic cocktail Just spirit and soda the ultimate easy mixed drink for any occasion Cheers ... Quick & Easy Meals
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered how to make a highball? Honestly, it's simpler than putting on your socks. This classic cocktail recipe is your ticket to easy, breezy refreshment.
It's all about that perfect mix of spirit and fizzy soda.
The Quintessential Highball: Simple Bliss
The highball has been around since the late 1800s. It is a mix of alcohol and carbonated liquid served in a tall glass filled with ice, its roots firmly planted in easy-drinking culture.
Think of it as the "chill-out" drink. It is super quick to make. Expect two minutes prep time. This recipe makes one drink.
Why You'll Adore This Drink
This Highball recipe is a low-calorie option compared to other mixed drinks. It is perfect for summer evenings or casual get-togethers.
It's also ridiculously easy to customize. It uses whatever spirit you fancy.
What You'll Need
Grab these bits and bobs. You will need 2 oz of your favourite spirit. For a whiskey and ginger ale highball use whiskey or switch it up with Gin Highball recipe .
Add 4-6 oz chilled soda water. Don't forget the ice and a lemon wedge. Honestly, it's all about keeping things simple.
The Perfect Highball Refreshingly Simple Delicious Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment for the Perfect Highball
Alright, let's talk about what you need to nail this highball recipe . Honestly, it's dead simple. You probably have half this stuff already.
Main Ingredients: The Foundation of a Good High Ball Drink Recipe
- 2 oz (60 ml) of your fave spirit. I'm partial to whiskey , but gin or vodka work too.
- 4-6 oz (120-180 ml) of ice-cold soda water. Club soda is classic.
- Loads of ice cubes. The bigger, the better.
- A wedge of lemon, lime, or orange. For that extra zing.
For the spirit, get something decent. Not top-shelf, but not the cheap stuff either. Good quality soda water makes a difference too.
Seasoning Notes: It's All About the Balance
The key is finding the right balance. I love a whiskey and ginger ale twist sometimes. It's still a highball drink , just with a little extra sweetness.
- Essential spice combinations : Not really spices, but a dash of bitters can add depth.
- Flavor enhancers and aromatics : Experiment with herbs like mint or rosemary.
- Quick substitution options : No soda water? Sparkling mineral water is fine.
I once tried a gin highball recipe with cucumber and mint. Oh my gosh, it was amazing! So refreshing! You know, the best easy mixed drinks are the ones you play around with.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple, Stupid
- A highball glass. Tall and skinny is the way to go.
- A jigger or measuring spoons. For proper pours.
- A bar spoon. For a gentle stir.
- And, if you want to be extra fancy, a lemon squeezer.
Don't have a jigger? Use a shot glass. No bar spoon? A regular spoon will do. These simple cocktail recipes don’t need fancy kit.
The best thing about classic cocktail recipes like this is they are perfect for refreshing summer cocktails . Knowing how to make a highball is a life skill!
The Perfect Highball: Refreshingly Simple & Delicious
Honestly, sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. Take the Highball. This classic cocktail recipe is just that – simple! It's basically grown-up fizzy juice, and I love it.
Originating in the late 19th century, it’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, less really is more. The crisp, clean flavor makes it a fantastic choice for a pre-dinner drink, or a relaxed evening tipple.
And you know what? Anyone can make it! I'm going to show you how to make a highball that'll knock your socks off.
It’s also one of the easiest of easy mixed drinks .
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Alright, first things first. This ain't rocket science, but a little prep goes a long way. The essential mise en place here is super easy.
Grab your favourite spirit, chilled soda water, ice, and a lemon or lime. You know? The usual suspects. For time-saving organization, have everything within arm's reach.
Honestly, it makes a difference! No safety warnings needed, unless you're prone to ice-related accidents.
Step-by-Step: From Zero to Highball Hero
Ok, let's get down to it. Here's how to make a highball , step-by-step:
- Chill the glass: Place the glass in the freezer for few minutes to chill. Remove the ice before proceeding.
- Add ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the spirit: Add 2 oz (60 ml) of your spirit of choice (I'm partial to whisky for this one. It's the best base for whiskey and ginger ale ).
- Top with soda water: Gently pour 4-6 oz (120-180 ml) of chilled soda water over the ice.
- Stir Gently: Stir gently once or twice. We don't want to lose that fizz!
- Garnish: Add a lemon wedge or lime for a bit of zing .
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Highball Game
Want to take your Highball from "meh" to "magnificent"? Here's the deal. Firstly, chill everything . The glass, the soda, even the spirit if you're feeling fancy.
Secondly, don't over-stir. You want those bubbles! And if you're feeling adventurous, play around with different spirits. A Gin highball recipe is another winner and a great refreshing summer cocktails option! If you do not have soda water, a sparkling mineral water will work in a pinch.
With this simple high ball drink recipe , you can easily adapt it to your preferred spirit and mixer!. Get creative with your garnishes.
Cucumber ribbons, mint sprigs, or even a sprig of rosemary can add a delightful aroma and visual appeal. It’s a great simple cocktail recipe .
Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Perfect Highball
Right, so you're armed with the basics on how to make a highball . But, like any classic cocktail recipes , there's room to make it your own.
These little notes will help you truly shine.
Serving Suggestions: Posh Presentation
Forget just chucking it in a glass. Think about plating! Pop a fancy citrus wedge on the rim. Some folks even use dried orange slices.
Serve with some fancy olives or posh crisps. And why not try refreshing summer cocktails to really impress your mates?
Storage Tips: It's a Drink, Not a Time Capsule!
Honestly, Highball Recipe are best fresh. You really shouldn't try storing it. The soda will go flat. The ice will melt, and it's just bleurgh .
Just make it, drink it, and enjoy it!
Variations: Mix It Up, Mate!
Fancy a twist? Instead of whisky, try a Gin Highball Recipe . Or even a Vodka Highball . You can swap out the plain soda water for flavored sparkling water.
Or, for a Whiskey And Ginger Ale , just swap the soda for ginger ale. BOOM! Sorted!
Nutrition Basics: Simple Sip
Let's be real, it's not a kale smoothie. We're talking about easy mixed drinks here. Roughly, you're looking at around 130-160 calories (if you start with soda).
There's zero fat, zero protein, and barely any carbs. Just booze and bubbles.
I reckon that has covered everything you need. Now you are set to make some great simple cocktail recipes . A perfect, fizzy High Ball Drink Recipe .
Enjoy, and remember to drink responsibly. Cheers to your new favorite Highball Drink !
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a highball, anyway? Is it just a fancy name for a mixed drink?
That's a fair question! A highball is a simple but classic cocktail made with a spirit (like whisky, gin, or vodka) and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, usually soda water. Think of it as the sophisticated older cousin of a vodka soda - easy to make and endlessly adaptable. It's called a highball because of the tall glass it's served in!
How do I make a highball really stand out? Any tips for taking it from "meh" to "marvelous"?
Absolutely! Firstly, chill everything - the glass, the spirit if you like, and especially the soda water. Good quality soda water makes a huge difference - avoid the cheap stuff that tastes metallic. And don't be afraid to experiment with garnishes! A sprig of rosemary or a cucumber ribbon can elevate the experience.
Can I use something other than soda water? What are some fun highball variations?
Definitely! Tonic water is a popular substitute, creating a Gin & Tonic Highball, which is incredibly refreshing. You could also try ginger ale for a sweeter twist, or even flavored sparkling water for a bit of extra zing. For the adventurous, a splash of cranberry juice or a few muddled berries can add a fruity dimension.
I'm watching my waistline – how to make a highball that's a bit healthier?
Good on you for being mindful! The beauty of a highball is that it's naturally quite low in calories, especially if you stick to soda water. Use diet soda water or sugar-free tonic water to slash the sugar content even further. Also, be mindful of your spirit choices – some liqueurs can be surprisingly high in sugar.
I want to learn how to make a highball, but what if I don't have all the ingredients on hand? Any smart substitutions I can use?
No worries, a bit of improvisation is part of the fun! If you don't have soda water, sparkling mineral water works in a pinch. If you're missing your favourite citrus, a dash of bottled lemon or lime juice can do the trick, but fresh is always best. The spirit is really where you can get creative- switch out Whiskey for Rye or Bourbon instead.
Can I make a big batch of highballs ahead of time for a party, or will they go flat?
Sadly, pre-mixing a full batch of highballs isn't recommended as the soda water will lose its fizz. The best approach is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Chill the spirits and soda, have plenty of ice on hand, and then assemble each drink as needed. It's quick and easy, and your guests will appreciate the fresh, bubbly flavor!
