Tom Collins

Pro tips

• Shake the base ingredients (gin, lemon juice, powdered sugar) with ice for 10–15 seconds to ensure the sugar dissolves and the drink is properly chilled.
• Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice—bottled juice will make the cocktail taste flat and one-dimensional.
• Top with soda water last and gently stir to maintain carbonation; over-mixing will lose the fizz.
• Serve in a tall glass (Collins glass) filled with fresh ice to keep the drink cold longer.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any dry London Dry gin (Tanqueray, Beefeater, or Gordon's)
• Powdered sugar → simple syrup (use ¾ tsp) or fresh lemon juice sweetened with ¾ tsp granulated sugar
• Fresh lemon juice → lime juice (creates a different but valid citrus profile)

Storage & make-ahead

Tom Collins is a fresh cocktail best served immediately. Do not store mixed; prepare to order.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger or measuring tool · Collins glass or tall glass · bar spoon or long spoon

What's the difference between a Tom Collins and a John Collins?

A Tom Collins uses dry gin; a John Collins traditionally uses whiskey or bourbon instead.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Yes—fresh lemon juice is preferred and will produce a brighter, more balanced cocktail than bottled.

Do I need club soda or soda water?

Club soda and soda water are interchangeable; both add the carbonation that defines the drink.

How do I chill a Tom Collins properly?

Shake the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar with ice, then strain into an ice-filled glass before topping with soda water.

Can I make Tom Collins without powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar dissolves faster than granulated, but you can substitute 1 tsp simple syrup or ¾ tsp granulated sugar dissolved in a small amount of water.