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This refreshing Watermelon Gin Fizz is the ultimate easy cocktail for summer. Made with fresh watermelon juice, crisp gin, a splash of lime, and a fizz of ginger ale, it’s the kind of drink you’ll want to sip on during brunch, lazy afternoons, or backyard gatherings.

Whenever I find myself with a watermelon that’s just a little underwhelming, I turn to this cocktail. I’ve made this Watermelon Gin Fizz so many times, and after plenty of casual testing (someone’s got to do it!), I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite ways to save less-than-perfect fruit and turn it into something absolutely wonderful.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Summer Cocktail
How to Make a Watermelon Gin Fizz
Variations and Substitutions
Tips for Perfect Watermelon Gin Fizz
Watermelon Gin Fizz Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Easy Summer Cocktail

With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this drink delivers bright flavor and a refreshing finish every single time.

Fresh Watermelon Juice: Blended and strained for a naturally sweet, silky base that tastes like summer.
Gin: The herbal notes in gin pair perfectly with watermelon’s natural sweetness.
Fresh Lime Juice: A splash of tartness balances the drink without overpowering it.
Ginger Ale: Adds a subtle sweetness and a lively fizz that makes each sip extra refreshing.

Whether you’re using a perfect peak-season watermelon or trying to salvage a store-bought one that’s a little lackluster, this cocktail is a winner.

Exact ingredient quantities are listed below in the recipe card. Note: the recipe card allows you to easily scale the recipe and will automatically adjust the ingredient amounts.

blended watermelon juice in blender with a glass of ice

How to Make a Watermelon Gin Fizz

This drink couldn’t be easier to throw together. Here’s the simple process:

Blend and Strain: Blend your watermelon cubes until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds or pulp.
Mix the Drink: In an ice-filled glass, combine watermelon juice, gin, and lime juice. Stir gently.
Top Off: Add a splash of ginger ale for the perfect fizzy finish.

Garnish with fresh mint or basil if desired. It’s a simple touch that makes it feel a little extra special.

Variations and Substitutions

This Watermelon Gin Fizz is easy to customize depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.

Swap the Gin: Vodka, rum, or tequila also work beautifully. Vodka makes it lighter, rum makes it a little sweeter, and tequila gives it a summery Paloma-style twist.
Make it Non-Alcoholic: Skip the gin altogether and replace it with a splash of sparkling water or additional ginger ale for a refreshing mocktail everyone can enjoy.
Add Herbs: Muddle a little fresh mint, basil, or even rosemary with the watermelon juice for an herbal twist.

a glass of watermelon gin fizz with basil garnish

Tips for Perfect Watermelon Gin Fizz

Strain Smoothly: A fine mesh strainer gives you a silky-smooth juice, which makes a cleaner cocktail.
Taste and Adjust: Depending on the sweetness of your watermelon, you might want to add a little more lime juice for balance.
Make a Pitcher: A small watermelon can yield 4 cups or more of juice, which makes it easy to batch this drink for a group.

looking down at watermelon cocktail with basil

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