Have you ever seen a Pimm’s cocktail on a summer menu and not known what it was? Contrary to what its name would have you believe, it’s quite straightforward.
The traditional way to make a Pimm’s cocktail involves mixing Pimm’s No. 1 with lemonade (or occasionally ginger beer, for those who like a little extra bite).
Then just top it off with some fruit, cucumber, and mint. Find out below the recipe for the traditional Pimm’s cocktail, how to garnish it and some variations.
What is a Pimm’s Cup?
A Pimm’s Cup is an herbal, fruit-infused cocktail that contains Pimm’s No. 1, which is a British liqueur that uses gin as its base and contains various flavors of herbs, spices and citrus.
The Pimm’s Cup was invented in the 1840s by James Pimm, the owner of a London oyster bar.
It was introduced as a refreshing cocktail to be consumed along with meals.
“Cup” is taken from a British term for fruit cups, which refers to a method of preparation where a spirit or liqueur is combined with other ingredients and is not just served as a spirit drink.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to make a classic Pimm’s drink.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Pimm’s No. 1 | The base spirit | A gin-based British liqueur with herbal, citrus, and spice flavors. |
| Lemonade | Traditional mixer | Use British-style sparkling lemonade. In the US, lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP) is the closest substitute. |
| Ginger Beer | Alternative mixer | Creates a spicier, less sweet variation than lemonade. |
| Cucumber Slices | Fresh garnish | Adds a crisp, cooling flavor that’s considered essential in the classic recipe. |
| Fresh Mint | Herbal garnish | Lightly bruise the leaves before adding for a stronger aroma. |
| Strawberries | Fruity garnish | Slice fresh strawberries for sweetness and color. |
| Orange Slices | Citrus garnish | Adds brightness and balances the herbal notes. |
| Lemon Slices | Citrus garnish | Enhances freshness and complements the mixer. |
| Ice | Chills the drink | Fill the glass generously to keep the drink cold and refreshing. |
Classic Ratio: Mix 1 part Pimm’s No. 1 with 2 to 3 parts lemonade or ginger beer, then add plenty of ice, fruit, cucumber and mint.
How to Make a Pimm’s Cup?
Preparing a classic Pimm’s Cup gin cocktail is simple and quick. What’s more, the garnish adds to its appearance as well as its refreshment.
1. Prepare the Garnish
Clean all the fresh vegetables thoroughly prior to cutting them.
Cut the cucumber into thin disks or strips; remove the hulls from the strawberries and cut them; and slice the orange and lemon very thinly.
Gently crush a few sprigs of mint with your fingers to release their oils. It is the abundance of fruits, vegetables and herbs that gives the Pimm’s Cup its unique taste.
2. Make the Drink
Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice to within 1/2 inch of the rim.
Add 1 part Pimm’s No. 1 (approx. 2 oz), then gently top with 2-3 parts of chilled lemonade or ginger beer for a spicier version.
Stir gently with a long spoon just enough to combine the ingredients, while maintaining the carbonation. Try not to over-stir, as this will flatten the bubbles and make the drink less light and refreshing.
Garnish and Serve
Mix all the cucumber, strawberries, orange, lemon slices, and mint sprigs together in the same glass before pouring the drink over it.
You can distribute these ingredients randomly in the glass so that their flavors blend with the drink and give it the traditional fruity look.
Serve this cocktail right away in a highball or Collins glass with loads of ice. To get its best flavor, serve it well-chilled with the mixer effervescent.
Popular Pimm’s Cup Variations
The classic recipe is always a favorite, but these variations let you enjoy a Pimm’s drink in different ways throughout the year.
1. Ginger Beer Pimm’s Cup
Add some spice to your drink by using ginger beer in place of the lemonade. The ginger will add heat and spice to offset the herbs in Pimm’s No. 1. Top it off with cucumber, fruit and mint like you would the regular version.
2. Non-Alcoholic Pimm’s Cup
Mix together black tea, some citrus juice, fruit cordial, and lemonade or sparkling water to make your own mocktail that tastes just like the real thing. Garnish with cucumber, strawberries, oranges and mint.
It’s a good match for anyone curious about a zero-proof drink and wants something festive without the alcohol. Garnish with cucumber, strawberries, orange and mint.
3. Variations of Pimm’s Drinks
Although Pimm’s No. 1 is the most popular, there are other types with various flavors. For instance, Pimm’s No. 3 Winter Cup is made from brandy and includes spices, giving it a warm feeling; therefore, it can be used during winter, while Pimm’s No. 6 Vodka Cup has a clean flavor and tastes best when made using vodka.
4. Adding Seasonal Fruits to Make It Seasonal
Use seasonal fruits to enhance the taste of your Pimm’s drink. You can add peaches, raspberries, or cherries in summer, or switch to pears, apples, cinnamon and rosemary in autumn.
When to Serve a Pimm’s Cup
A Pimm’s Cup is built for summer and casual entertaining.
- Wimbledon Viewings: it’s the trademark drink of the tournament, making it a natural pick for a viewing party.
- Garden Parties: the mix of fruit, cucumber and mint suits lunch, tea time and outdoor gatherings.
- Sunday Brunch: the citrusy flavor pairs well with quiche, smoked salmon, baked goods and fruit.
- Summer Events: it batches easily for a crowd, so it works for a barbecue, picnic or patio meal. If you’re planning something around the holiday, a lineup of Fourth of July drinks pairs well alongside a pitcher of Pimm’s.
Storage and Shelf Life of Pimm’s No. 1
Pimm’s No. 1 should ideally be kept in a cool and dark place away from any form of light or heat to preserve its flavor.
However, storing the drink in the fridge may not be necessary; but in case of warm climates, refrigerating the opened bottles would help retain its freshness and the citrus and herbaceous notes.
It must be remembered to tightly cap the bottles every time after consumption to prevent oxidation. Pimm’s No. 1 should ideally be consumed within 12 to 18 months.
Conclusion
A Pimm’s drink proves that a refreshing cocktail doesn’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques.
With Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade or ginger beer, plenty of fresh fruit, cucumber and mint, you can make a classic British favorite that’s perfect for everything from summer brunches to garden parties.
Once you’ve mastered the original recipe, try different garnishes and seasonal variations to make it your own.
Have a favorite way to serve a Pimm’s Cup or a unique twist on the classic? Share it in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Pimm’s Taste Like if You’ve Never Had It?
Pimm’s tastes lightly sweet and herbal, with citrus, warming spices, and subtle fruit notes balanced by a refreshing, slightly bitter finish.
Can You Drink Pimm’s Straight, Without a Mixer?
Yes, you can drink Pimm’s straight over ice, though it’s traditionally mixed with lemonade or ginger beer for better balance.
Is There a Pimm’s Cup You Can Make Ahead of Time for a Party?
Yes, prepare the Pimm’s and fruit ahead, then add the mixer and ice just before serving to keep it sparkling.
