Royal Smile Cocktail Recipe

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice, not bottled, for brightness and proper acidity balance.
• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass before pouring to keep the drink cold longer.
• Measure grenadine carefully—too much overpowers the gin and brandy; use a bar spoon or jigger.
• Shake vigorously with ice for 10–12 seconds to properly chill and dilute the spirits.

Substitutions

• Apple brandy → cognac or applejack (drier or more apple-forward alternative)
• Gin → vodka (removes juniper notes; less traditional but smoother)
• Grenadine → pomegranate syrup or homemade grenadine (deeper, less cloying sweetness)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are best served fresh; prepare and drink immediately after shaking.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · strainer

Can I make a Royal Smile without apple brandy?

Yes—substitute with cognac or regular brandy for a slightly drier profile, or use applejack for a closer match.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake with ice; the citrus and brandy benefit from aeration and proper chilling.

What type of gin works best?

London Dry gin is traditional; use a classic, juniper-forward style rather than heavily botanicaled gins.

How tart will this cocktail taste?

Medium tart from fresh lemon juice, balanced by grenadine's sweetness and the brandy's body.