Nothing says summer quite like fresh watermelon, cool mint, and a cold drink in your hand.

Whether you’re firing up the grill, hosting a backyard barbecue, relaxing on the deck, or watching fireworks with friends, The Freedom Smash is the perfect companion. Light, refreshing, and bursting with fresh summer flavors, it’s the kind of drink you’ll find yourself making long after the Fourth of July is over.

Even better? This recipe is just as delicious as a mocktail. Simply leave out the bourbon, and everyone can enjoy the same refreshing drink.

🍉 Freedom Smash Cocktail

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 2 oz fresh watermelon juice (or ½ cup fresh watermelon chunks)
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• 6–8 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Ice
• Watermelon wedge, lemon slice, and fresh mint for garnish

Directions

1. Add the watermelon, lemon juice, and mint leaves to a cocktail shaker.
2. Gently muddle the mint to release its flavor.
3. Add the bourbon and a handful of ice.
4. Shake well until chilled.
5. Fill a tall glass with fresh ice.
6. Strain the mixture into the glass.
7. Top with club soda.
8. Garnish with a watermelon wedge, lemon slice, and fresh mint sprig.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

🍉 Freedom Smash Mocktail

Want to skip the alcohol? No problem.

Use the exact same recipe—just leave out the bourbon.

The fresh watermelon, bright lemon, cool mint, and bubbly club soda create a refreshing drink that tastes every bit as festive as the original.

🥳 Make a Pitcher for the Party

Hosting friends? Here’s an easy crowd-sized version.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh watermelon juice
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 bunch fresh mint (lightly muddled)
• 3–4 cups chilled club soda
• Ice

Optional: Bourbon for guests who want the cocktail version.

Mix everything except the club soda ahead of time and refrigerate. Just before serving, stir in the club soda and pour over ice. Guests can enjoy it as-is or add a splash of bourbon to their own glass.

🫎 Moose-Approved Tips

• Freeze watermelon cubes instead of regular ice to keep your drink cold without watering it down.
• Fresh-squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference.
• Garnish with blueberries and strawberries for a patriotic red, white, and blue look.
• For a little extra sparkle, use flavored sparkling water instead of plain club soda.
• Like it sweeter? Add a drizzle of simple syrup or a touch of local maple syrup for a subtle New England twist.

🍔 Perfect Pairings

The Freedom Smash is right at home alongside:

• Grilled burgers
• BBQ chicken
• Pulled pork sandwiches
• Hot dogs with all the toppings
• Fresh fruit salad
• Watermelon slices
• Corn on the cob
• Strawberry shortcake

🇺🇸 Cheers to Summer!

Simple recipes are often the best ones, and The Freedom Smash proves it.

Fresh watermelon, bright citrus, cool mint, and sparkling bubbles come together for a drink that’s light, flavorful, and made for warm summer days. Whether you enjoy it with bourbon or keep it alcohol-free, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at cookouts, family gatherings, and lazy afternoons in the sunshine.

So grab your favorite glass, invite a few friends over, and raise a toast to great food, great company, and another unforgettable summer.

Cheers—and as always… Awesomeness Awaits! 🫎🍉☀️