The Ultimate Guide to Making a Classic Pimm’s Cup: A Refreshing New Orleans Favorite
Before diving into the vibrant culinary and cocktail scene of New Orleans, I made it a point to research the quintessential drinks the city is famous for. Among the iconic libations frequently referenced, the Pimm’s Cup consistently appeared. This guide will walk you through crafting this remarkably refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, perfect for any occasion.
What Makes the Pimm’s Cup So Special?
The Pimm’s Cup stands out for its invigorating lightness and complex yet harmonious flavor profile. It’s a cocktail that doesn’t overwhelm the palate, offering a delightful balance of fruity, herbaceous, and subtly spicy notes. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a home bartender looking for a simple yet impressive drink, this Pimm’s Cup recipe is incredibly easy to master and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
During a memorable romantic weekend getaway to New Orleans, I made sure to savor a classic Pimm’s Cup, alongside other fantastic New Orleans cocktails. The city, renowned for its hospitality and culinary prowess, boasts an array of talented bartenders who expertly craft both traditional and innovative drinks. The Pimm’s Cup, with its British origins and strong ties to New Orleans culture, perfectly encapsulates this blend of history and contemporary enjoyment.
The Fascinating History of the Pimm’s Cup Cocktail
The history of the Pimm’s Cup is as intriguing as its taste. This iconic cocktail originated in London in the mid-1800s, credited to James Pimm, a oyster bar owner. He initially created Pimm’s No. 1 Cup as a digestif to aid with oyster digestion, serving it in a small tankard, hence the “Cup” in its name. It quickly gained popularity as a healthful and restorative tonic.
Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin-based liqueur infused with a secret blend of fruits, spices, and herbal botanicals. Its unique flavor quickly captivated patrons, leading to its widespread acclaim. Over the years, the drink transcended its humble beginnings in London and spread its influence globally, becoming a beloved staple, particularly in the United Kingdom and, notably, in New Orleans.
One of its most famous associations is with the Wimbledon tennis tournament, where a dedicated Pimm’s Bar first opened in 1971. It has since become synonymous with British summer, garden parties, and sporting events. While Pimm’s No. 1 remains the most popular, it’s fascinating to learn that James Pimm also produced other varieties, each numbered and based on different spirits:
- Pimm’s No. 2 (Scotch-based)
- Pimm’s No. 3 (Brandy-based)
- Pimm’s No. 4 (Rum-based)
- Pimm’s No. 5 (Rye Whiskey-based)
- Pimm’s No. 6 (Vodka-based)
Prior to researching this cocktail, like many, I was only familiar with the celebrated Pimm’s No. 1. The combination of its complex botanical base with fresh lemon juice, crisp cucumber, and a fizzy topping like ginger ale or lemon-lime soda creates a truly unparalleled refreshing experience, especially on a warm day.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pimm’s Cup
Crafting an epic Pimm’s Cup drink requires just a few simple, fresh ingredients. The beauty of this cocktail lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Here’s what you’ll need to create this classic:
- English Cucumber: Essential for that signature fresh, crisp aroma and subtle vegetal note that perfectly complements the botanicals in Pimm’s No. 1.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the necessary tartness and bright, citrusy zing that balances the sweetness and herbal qualities of the liqueur. A lemon wheel for muddling and a twist for garnish are key.
- Pimm’s No. 1: The star of the show. This gin-based liqueur with its secret blend of herbs, spices, and fruits is irreplaceable for an authentic Pimm’s Cup.
- 7-Up, Lemon-Lime Soda, or Ginger Ale: These carbonated mixers add effervescence and a touch of sweetness, lifting the flavors and making the drink wonderfully refreshing. Ginger ale will lend a slightly spicier, more pronounced flavor, while 7-Up or lemon-lime soda will keep it lighter and sweeter.
- Lemon Twist: A final flourish for garnish, adding visual appeal and an extra burst of citrus aroma.
Equipment Needed
- Highball Glass: The ideal vessel for serving, allowing ample space for ice and garnishes.
- Muddler: Used to gently release the flavors from the cucumber and lemon slices without crushing them excessively. Often found in a home mixology kit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Perfect Pimm’s Cup
One of the many joys of the Pimm’s Cup is its straightforward preparation. You won’t need a cocktail shaker, as this drink is “built” directly in the glass. Follow these simple steps for a perfect Pimm’s Cup every time:
- Prepare Your Glass: Start with a chilled highball glass. This helps keep your drink colder for longer.
- Muddle Aromatics: Gently place your cucumber and lemon slices into the bottom of the glass. Use a muddler to lightly press them a few times. The goal is to release their essential oils and juices, not to pulverize them.
- Add Pimm’s: Pour in the measured amount of Pimm’s No. 1 over the muddled ingredients.
- Top with Soda: Fill the remaining space in the glass with your chosen carbonated mixer – 7-Up, lemon-lime soda, or ginger ale.
- Stir and Chill: Give the cocktail a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- Add Ice and Garnish: Fill the glass generously with ice cubes. Finish with a elegant lemon twist draped over the rim or nestled into the drink. For an extra touch of freshness, a few mint sprigs can also be added.
Preparation and Storage Tips
The Pimm’s Cup is not only easy to make individually but also lends itself beautifully to batch preparation, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Here are some tips for preparing and storing your Pimm’s Cup:
Make Ahead & Larger Groups
This classic New Orleans cocktail is ideal for making ahead, whether you’re preparing a pitcher or a large punch bowl. Combine all ingredients except the soda and ice in your chosen vessel. Store this mixture in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve your guests, simply pour the pre-mixed base into individual highball glasses and top each serving off with fresh soda and plenty of ice. This method ensures maximum fizz and prevents dilution.
Storage of Leftovers
While the Pimm’s Cup mixture (without soda and ice) can be refrigerated until serving, we generally do not recommend keeping leftovers of a fully prepared Pimm’s Cup. Carbonated beverages tend to go flat quickly once mixed, and no one enjoys a flat, lackluster drink. It’s best to prepare fresh batches as needed or scale the recipe to avoid excess.
Freezing & Slushies
If you find yourself with leftover Pimm’s Cup mixture (again, before adding soda and ice), don’t despair! It transforms into elegant and refreshing slushies when blended with a handful of ice. For an extra fruity kick and vibrant color, some versions even suggest adding frozen strawberries or other berries to the blender. This is a delightful way to repurpose any unused base.
Pimm’s Cup Recipe Variations
While the classic Pimm’s Cup is a masterpiece in itself, its versatility allows for exciting variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- DIY Pimm’s No. 1 Substitute: Pimm’s No. 1 is a unique product. If it’s unavailable in your local store, a popular DIY substitute, recommended by UK lifestyle magazines like Red, involves mixing equal parts gin, red vermouth, and curaçao. This combination aims to replicate the botanical, fruity, and slightly bitter profile of the original.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Good news for plant-based drinkers! Pimm’s No. 1 and most of its traditional cocktail ingredients (cucumber, lemon, soda) are safe for both vegetarians and vegans. If you opt for the DIY liqueur substitute, ensure that the gin, vermouth, and curaçao brands you choose are also certified plant-based, as processing methods can vary.
- Gluten-Free Version: For those following a gluten-free diet, you’ll be pleased to know that Pimm’s No. 1 and common mixers like 7-Up are widely considered gluten-free. Therefore, a classic Pimm’s Cup should be a safe and enjoyable choice. Always double-check ingredient labels if you have severe sensitivities.
- Alcohol-Free Option: Enjoy the refreshing flavors without the alcohol by replacing Pimm’s No. 1 with balsamic vinegar. This might sound unconventional, but a small amount of good quality balsamic can mimic the complex, slightly sweet and sour notes of Pimm’s, especially when combined with fresh fruit and soda.
- Make it Spicy: For those who appreciate a kick, swap out the lemon-lime soda for a good quality ginger beer. The robust, spicier notes of ginger beer will add a fiery depth to this already flavorful cocktail.
- Sugar-Free Alternatives: A traditional Pimm’s Cup contains around 12 grams of sugar per serving due to the Pimm’s liqueur itself and the soda. While a completely sugar-free Pimm’s Cup isn’t possible, you can significantly reduce the sugar content by using sugar-free lemon-lime soda or ginger ale.
Expert Tips for the Best Pimm’s Cup
- Experiment with Fruits: Many traditional Pimm’s Cup recipes, especially those from the UK, incorporate a variety of fresh fruits beyond just lemon and cucumber. Strawberries, oranges, apples, and even mint leaves are common additions. Taste your store-bought or DIY Pimm’s Cup first, then consider what fruits would best complement your palate for your unique spin.
- Don’t Forget the Mint: A sprig of fresh mint makes an excellent garnish. Beyond its visual appeal, the refreshing herbal aroma and taste of mint beautifully complement the zesty and botanical elements in the Pimm’s Cup.
- Quality of Ingredients: Since the Pimm’s Cup relies on fresh ingredients, using high-quality cucumber and lemon will significantly enhance the flavor.
- Chill Everything: Ensure your Pimm’s No. 1 and soda are well-chilled before mixing. This minimizes ice melt and keeps your drink crisp.
- Gentle Muddling: Remember to muddle gently. You want to extract the flavors, not pulverize the fruit and cucumber into a mush.
- Nutrition Information: Please note that nutrition information, including calories, protein, carbohydrates, and other values, will vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of products used in your preparation.
What to Serve with Your Pimm’s Cup
Whether you’re enjoying a solo happy hour or hosting a lively cocktail night with friends, the Pimm’s Cup is a versatile drink that pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes. Embrace its British charm and New Orleans connection by making it a part of your next French Quarter-inspired feast or a casual summer gathering.
Recommended Sides:
- CrockPot Shrimp and Grits: A comforting and flavorful Southern classic.
- Scotch Eggs: A nod to its British heritage, these make for a hearty appetizer.
- Shrimp Remoulade: A light and tangy New Orleans starter.
- CrockPot New Orleans Spicy Barbecue Shrimp: Zesty and succulent, a perfect match for the refreshing drink.
Main Dishes to Consider:
- Jambalaya: A quintessential one-pot Creole dish, rich in flavor.
- CrockPot Gumbo: A hearty and aromatic stew, another New Orleans staple.
- Easy Garlic Shrimp Linguini: A lighter option that still offers plenty of flavor.
Sweet Endings:
- Cinnamon Roll King Cake: A festive and delicious dessert, especially fitting for Mardi Gras season.
Complementary Drinks:
- CopyCat Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane Cocktail
- Boozy Hurricane Popsicle
- Fuzzy Leprechaun Cocktail
- Lynchburg Lemonade
- Classic Grasshopper
- Rainbow Cocktail
When to Enjoy This Classic Cocktail
- Dinner Parties
- Cocktail Nights
- Date Nights
- Mardi Gras Celebrations
- Summer Gatherings and BBQs
- Sporting Events (especially tennis!)
- Any occasion calling for a refreshing, easy-drinking cocktail
More Refreshing Cocktail Recipes to Explore
If you enjoyed the simple elegance of the Pimm’s Cup, you might love these other fantastic cocktail recipes:
- Lynchburg Lemonade
- Hurricane Cocktail
- Rainbow Cocktail
- Aviation Cocktail
- Peach Iced Tea Cocktail
- Ranch Water Cocktail
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and our convenient CrockPot Recipes.
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Pimm’s Cup Recipe
How to make the classic New Orleans Cocktail, the Pimm’s Cup.
Prep Time: 5 minutes |
Total Time: 5 minutes |
Servings: 1 |
Calories: 178 kcal |
Author: Tammilee Tips
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ inch thick English cucumber wheel
- ½ inch thick lemon wheel
- 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
- 4 ounces 7 Up, lemon-lime soda, or ginger ale
- lemon twist
Instructions
- Gently muddle the cucumber and lemon slices in a chilled highball glass.
- Pour in the Pimm’s and 7UP, lemon-lime soda, or ginger ale, and stir to combine.
- Add ice to fill the glass and garnish with the lemon twist.
Nutrition
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Recipe originally shared on May 10, 2015. Updated December 2020.