If you’re looking for the ultimate summer refreshment, the Pimm’s Cup is the vibrant, fruit-studded drink that belongs at every warm-weather gathering. With its zesty mix of Pimm’s No. 1, bubbly soda, and a colorful array of fresh fruits and herbs, this beloved British cocktail is almost as fun to assemble as it is to sip. The Pimm’s Cup bursts with flavor and personality, drawing you in with crisp cucumber, juicy berries, effervescent soda, and that signature aromatic gin-based liqueur—all in a single, irresistibly refreshing glass.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pimm’s Cup:
- 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
- 4 ounces lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
Garnishes:
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 fresh mint sprigs
- 2 strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 orange slice
- 1 lemon slice
- Ice cubes
How to Make Pimm’s Cup
Step 1: Fill the Glass with Ice
Grab your favorite tall glass (Collins or highball work nicely) and fill it right up with ice cubes. Don’t be shy—generous ice is key to delivering that crisp, frosty Pimm’s Cup experience and helping all the fresh fruit and herbs stay at their best.
Step 2: Pour in the Pimm’s No. 1
Carefully measure out 2 ounces of Pimm’s No. 1 and pour it over your mountain of ice. This is the moment when this British summertime tradition starts to come alive with its signature flavor.
Step 3: Top with Soda
Add 4 ounces of your chosen lemon-lime soda or ginger ale. Pour slowly to preserve those lively bubbles—this effervescence is what makes the Pimm’s Cup so thirst-quenching and festive.
Step 4: Stir Gently
Use a long spoon or a cocktail stirrer to gently combine the Pimm’s and soda. Just a few turns will do the trick; you’re aiming for a light mix that keeps all that glorious fizz intact.
Step 5: Add Fruit and Garnishes
Slide in your thin cucumber slices, nestle fresh mint sprigs among the ice, and layer in the juicy strawberry slices, orange, and lemon. These not only look beautiful but infuse your Pimm’s Cup with a riot of refreshing, natural flavors.
Step 6: Serve Right Away
No need to wait—this cocktail is all about immediacy and delight. Present it to your guests or treat yourself, and bask in that first cooling sip.
How to Serve Pimm’s Cup
Garnishes
The Pimm’s Cup is legendary for its zesty garnishes, which don’t just dress up the glass—they layer in aromas and subtle flavors. Float extra cucumber wheels, wedge in a few more juicy strawberries, and don’t forget an abundant tuft of mint. Some fans even add apple slices or a wedge of lime if you’re feeling inspired to riff.
Side Dishes
This drink shines alongside classic British summer fare—think finger sandwiches, savory pies, or a big bowl of crisps. For a garden party vibe, fresh vegetable crudités or a platter of plump berries are dreamy companions to the sweet-tart, fizzy Pimm’s Cup.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a crowd, consider serving your Pimm’s Cup in a grand pitcher or a retro punch bowl brimming with colorful fruit. For extra flair, skewer fruit onto cocktail picks or freeze berries into your ice cubes. Little touches like striped paper straws drive home the picnic-perfect feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pimm’s Cup is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, strain out the fruit and herbs (which can get soggy), then store the liquid in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just add new fresh garnishes when serving again for the best results.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for a Pimm’s Cup, as the fizzy soda will lose its sparkle and the fresh fruit will turn mushy once thawed. If you want to chill in advance, freeze cut fruit and drop it in right before serving for an icy, bright twist instead.
Reheating
This is one cocktail you never want warm, so skip any thoughts of reheating! Instead, if your batch loses its chill, simply add a few more ice cubes and a splash of fresh soda to perk it right back up.
FAQs
What is Pimm’s No. 1, and can I substitute it?
Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin-based liqueur filled with botanicals, spices, and citrus notes. While nothing tastes quite like the original, if you’re in a pinch, you might try a mix of gin and a splash of sweet vermouth or fruit liqueur—but the real thing really shines in a classic Pimm’s Cup.
Can I use different fruits in my Pimm’s Cup?
Absolutely! The Pimm’s Cup is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to use what’s ripe and fresh: apples, blueberries, blackberries, or even a few pomegranate seeds can all make charming and delicious additions.
Which soda should I choose: lemon-lime or ginger ale?
Both work beautifully, but your choice changes the drink’s personality a bit. Ginger ale brings a spicy, warming note, while lemon-lime is sweeter and a bit brighter. Try both and see which you love best—or offer each to guests for variety.
Is the Pimm’s Cup gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! All the ingredients listed in a traditional Pimm’s Cup are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making this a wonderfully inclusive drink for your next gathering. Just double-check any store-bought soda or garnish add-ins for your comfort.
How can I make a lower-sugar version?
Swap out the lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for soda water to create a lighter, more refreshing Pimm’s Cup with less sugar. You’ll still get all the flavor, with a little extra sharpness and plenty of fizz.
Final Thoughts
The Pimm’s Cup isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a celebration in a glass, brimming with fresh fruit, herbs, and sparkling personality. If you’re ready to channel those sunny British garden parties (or just want a gorgeous drink for your next barbecue), give it a try and toast to good times, good company, and classic refreshment!
Print
Pimm’s Cup Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Description
Enjoy a refreshing and classic British cocktail with this easy Pimm’s Cup recipe. Perfect for a summer day or any time you need a light and fruity drink.
Ingredients
Pimm’s Cup:
- 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
- 4 ounces lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
Garnishes:
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 fresh mint sprigs
- 2 strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 orange slice
- 1 lemon slice
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in the Pimm’s No. 1 and top with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale.
- Stir gently to combine. Garnish with cucumber slices, mint sprigs, strawberries, orange, and lemon slices.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lower-sugar option, use soda water instead of lemon-lime soda.
- Adjust fruit garnishes based on seasonal availability.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-cook, mixing
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
