Tom Collins

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not bottled—the difference in flavor is substantial.
• Shake the base ingredients vigorously with ice to dissolve the powdered sugar fully before straining.
• Top with soda water last and stir gently to maintain carbonation.
• Chill your glass with ice before pouring to keep the drink cold longer.

Substitutions

• Fresh lemon juice → bottled lemon juice (less flavor, use sparingly)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → another London Dry style gin (neutral flavor profile recommended)
• Powdered sugar → simple syrup at 1/2 tsp (easier to dissolve, slightly different texture)

Storage & make-ahead

Serve immediately after preparation. Pre-mixed base (gin, lemon juice, sugar) keeps refrigerated for up to 2 days; add soda and ice only when serving.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · strainer

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

A Tom Collins uses gin, while a John Collins uses whiskey. The rest of the recipe—lemon juice, sugar, and soda—remains the same.

Do you shake or stir a Tom Collins?

Shake the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar with ice, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice and top with soda water.

Can you make Tom Collins in advance?

Mix the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar ahead of time, but add soda water and ice just before serving to keep it fizzy and cold.

What type of gin works best?

Dry gin is traditional and recommended, as it balances the tartness of fresh lemon without added sweetness.