18 Refreshing Shrub Recipes Creative

Ready to add a splash of excitement to your drinks? Dive into our collection of 18 Refreshing Shrub Recipes that promise to transform your sips into something extraordinary. Perfect for home cooks looking to experiment with bold flavors, these concoctions blend sweet, tart, and herbal notes in ways you’ve never imagined. Let’s shake up your beverage game—your taste buds will thank you!

Strawberry Basil Shrub

Brighten up your beverage game with this Strawberry Basil Shrub, a refreshingly tangy sipper that’s perfect for warm afternoons or as a unique cocktail mixer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold water

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup fresh strawberries and 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves. Gently muddle to release the juices and oils.
2. Add 1 cup apple cider vinegar to the bowl, cover, and let steep at room temperature for 24 hours.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
4. Add 1 cup granulated sugar to the jar and stir until completely dissolved.
5. Stir in 1 cup cold water, then transfer the shrub to a bottle and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

The magic of this shrub lies in the harmony between the sweet strawberries and the peppery basil, creating a drink that’s as complex as it is refreshing.

Tip: For a fizzy treat, mix a couple of tablespoons of the shrub with sparkling water or your favorite soda.

Blueberry Lavender Shrub

Imagine sipping on a refreshing, floral-infused drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This Blueberry Lavender Shrub is a vibrant, tangy-sweet concoction that’s perfect for elevating your summer beverage game.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup fresh blueberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the blueberries burst, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds. Let the mixture steep for 30 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar into the strained liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

The magic of this shrub lies in its balance of sweet blueberries and aromatic lavender, creating a sophisticated syrup that’s endlessly versatile. Try it sparkling with soda water or as a unique cocktail mixer.

Tip: For a smoother shrub, you can blend the steeped mixture before straining to break down the blueberries even further.

Raspberry Mint Shrub

Brighten up your drink game with this refreshing Raspberry Mint Shrub, a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and herbal notes that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold water

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, muddle the raspberries and 1/2 cup mint leaves together until the raspberries are fully crushed and the mint is fragrant.
2. Add the apple cider vinegar and sugar to the bowl, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to infuse.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
5. Add 1 cup cold water to the jar and stir to combine. Your shrub is now ready to use or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

This Raspberry Mint Shrub stands out with its vibrant color and the way the mint elevates the raspberries’ natural sweetness, making it a standout mixer for cocktails or a sparkling water.

Tip: For an extra refreshing twist, serve your shrub over ice with a splash of soda water and a few fresh raspberries and mint leaves for garnish.

Peach Thyme Shrub

This Peach Thyme Shrub is a refreshing, vinegar-based syrup that’s perfect for mixing into cocktails or sparkling water for a tangy, fruity sip.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups fresh peaches and 1 cup granulated sugar. Mash lightly with a fork to release the juices, then cover and let sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
2. Stir in 1 cup apple cider vinegar and 4 sprigs fresh thyme. Cover again and refrigerate for 3 days, stirring once a day.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
4. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Serve by mixing with sparkling water or your favorite spirit.

The beauty of this shrub lies in its balance of sweet peaches and herbal thyme, creating a complex flavor that elevates any drink it touches.

Tip: For a smoother shrub, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth-lined sieve to remove any fine pulp.

Blackberry Sage Shrub

This Blackberry Sage Shrub is a refreshingly tangy sipper that’s perfect for sprucing up your cocktails or enjoying with sparkling water on a warm afternoon.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, loosely packed

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, muddle the 2 cups fresh blackberries and 1 cup granulated sugar together until the blackberries are crushed and the sugar begins to dissolve.
2. Add the 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves to the bowl, stirring to combine. Cover and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to infuse.
3. After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Stir in the 1 cup apple cider vinegar until fully combined. Seal the jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 3 days before using to allow the flavors to meld.

The beauty of this shrub lies in its versatility—the herbal sage notes elevate the sweet-tart blackberry base, making it a standout addition to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Tip: For a smoother shrub, strain the mixture a second time through cheesecloth to remove any remaining pulp.

Apple Cinnamon Shrub

Warm up your mornings with this Apple Cinnamon Shrub, a tangy and spiced drink that’s as refreshing as it is easy to make.

Ingredients

• 2 medium apples, cored and chopped
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup sparkling water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, cinnamon stick, and ground cinnamon. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the apples to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate the shrub syrup for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. To serve, mix 2 tablespoons of the shrub syrup with 1 cup of sparkling water over ice. Stir gently and enjoy immediately.

The magic of this shrub lies in its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spice, making it a versatile base for cocktails or a standalone refresher.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of bourbon to your shrub cocktail.

Pear Ginger Shrub

This Pear Ginger Shrub is a refreshingly tangy and slightly spicy drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or as a unique mixer for your cocktails.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced pears, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup grated ginger. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
2. After macerating, add 1 cup water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears are soft.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup apple cider vinegar. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
5. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve diluted with sparkling water or as a cocktail mixer.

The combination of sweet pears and spicy ginger creates a vibrant flavor profile that’s both invigorating and comforting. The shrub’s versatility makes it a standout addition to your beverage repertoire.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper during the simmering step.

Cherry Vanilla Shrub

Brighten up your beverage game with this Cherry Vanilla Shrub, a tangy and sweet sipper that’s perfect for mixing into cocktails or enjoying with sparkling water.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups fresh cherries, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup granulated sugar. Scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean into the mixture and add the pod.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the cherries to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate the shrub for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

The Cherry Vanilla Shrub’s deep, fruity flavor with a hint of vanilla makes it a standout for elevating simple drinks into something special.

Tip: For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, mix 2 tablespoons of shrub with 8 ounces of sparkling water over ice.

Pineapple Rosemary Shrub

Brighten up your drink repertoire with this Pineapple Rosemary Shrub, a refreshingly tangy syrup that’s perfect for cocktails or sparkling water.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup chopped pineapple, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
4. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To serve, mix 2 tablespoons of the shrub with 8 ounces of sparkling water or your favorite cocktail base.

The Pineapple Rosemary Shrub stands out with its vibrant balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes, making it a versatile base for endless beverage creations.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the shrub sit in the refrigerator for a day before using.

Grapefruit Cardamom Shrub

Brighten up your beverage game with this Grapefruit Cardamom Shrub, a zesty and aromatic drink that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon or jazzing up your cocktail hour.

Ingredients

• 2 large grapefruits, juiced (about 1 cup of juice)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of grapefruit juice, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 10 lightly crushed cardamom pods. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. This allows the cardamom to infuse its flavor into the syrup.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing on the cardamom pods to extract as much flavor as possible. Discard the cardamom pods.
4. Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to the jar with the grapefruit-cardamom syrup. Seal the jar and shake well to combine.
5. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld. The shrub will keep for up to 1 month in the fridge.

The magic of this shrub lies in the bold pairing of tangy grapefruit with the warm, spicy notes of cardamom, creating a complex flavor profile that’s both refreshing and intriguing.

Tip: For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, mix 2 tablespoons of the shrub with 1 cup of sparkling water over ice. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit for an extra touch of elegance.

Lemon Lemongrass Shrub

Brighten up your day with this refreshing Lemon Lemongrass Shrub, a zesty drink that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon or as a unique cocktail mixer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 2 stalks of chopped lemongrass. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature, allowing the lemongrass to infuse for about 30 minutes.
3. Strain the syrup into a clean jar or bottle, discarding the lemongrass. Add 1 cup fresh lemon juice and 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar to the syrup, stirring well to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, diluted with sparkling water or as a cocktail base.

The magic of this shrub lies in the balance between the tart lemon, the aromatic lemongrass, and the tangy apple cider vinegar, creating a drink that’s both invigorating and complex.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a few slices of fresh ginger to the syrup while it simmers.

Orange Clove Shrub

Brighten up your beverage game with this Orange Clove Shrub, a tangy and spiced syrup that’s perfect for mixing into cocktails or sparkling water.

Ingredients

• 2 large oranges, thinly sliced
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the thinly sliced oranges, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon whole cloves, and 1 cinnamon stick.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
5. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To serve, mix 1-2 tablespoons of the shrub with sparkling water or your favorite spirit.

The magic of this shrub lies in the way the bright citrus and warm spices meld together, creating a versatile syrup that elevates any drink it touches.

Tip: For a smoother texture, you can strain the syrup a second time through cheesecloth to remove any fine pulp.

Watermelon Jalapeno Shrub

This Watermelon Jalapeno Shrub is a refreshingly spicy sip that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day, with a kick that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the watermelon and jalapeno slices with the sugar and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Add the apple cider vinegar to the jar with the strained liquid, seal tightly, and shake well to combine.
5. Refrigerate the shrub for at least 24 hours before using to let the flavors deepen. The shrub will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

The magic of this shrub lies in the balance between the sweetness of watermelon and the fiery punch of jalapeno, creating a versatile base for cocktails or a unique twist on sparkling water.

Tip: For an extra refreshing drink, mix 2 tablespoons of the shrub with ice and top with sparkling water or your favorite gin.

Cucumber Dill Shrub

Refreshing and tangy, this Cucumber Dill Shrub is a vibrant drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or as a unique mocktail base.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber and white sugar. Mash gently with a spoon to release the cucumber juices, then let sit for 1 hour.
2. Strain the cucumber mixture into a clean jar, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the apple cider vinegar, fresh dill, and water to the jar with the cucumber juice. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the shrub through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle, pressing on the dill to extract all the flavor. Discard the solids.

The Cucumber Dill Shrub stands out with its herbaceous freshness, making it an exceptional base for cocktails or a refreshing drink diluted with sparkling water.

Tip: For a fizzy version, mix 1 part shrub with 3 parts sparkling water over ice.

Kiwi Lime Shrub

Brighten up your beverage game with this refreshing Kiwi Lime Shrub, a tangy-sweet syrup that’s perfect for mixing into cocktails or sparkling water.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 limes, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced kiwis, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. This allows the kiwi flavors to infuse into the syrup.
3. Strain the kiwi mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Add 1 cup apple cider vinegar and the juice of 2 limes to the strained kiwi syrup. Stir well to combine.
5. Seal the jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

The Kiwi Lime Shrub’s vibrant acidity and fruity sweetness make it a standout mixer that adds a burst of flavor to any drink. Its versatility and bright color are sure to impress.

Tip: For a fun twist, try adding a splash of this shrub to your favorite gin or vodka cocktail for an extra layer of flavor.

Mango Chili Shrub

Spice up your drink game with this Mango Chili Shrub, a vibrant concoction that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced mango, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon chili flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to meld.

The Mango Chili Shrub is a standout for its bold flavor profile, making it an exceptional base for cocktails or a refreshing splash in sparkling water.

Tip: For a smoother shrub, blend the mango before simmering to break it down further, ensuring a more intense mango flavor in every sip.

Plum Anise Shrub

Dive into the refreshing and slightly spicy world of homemade shrubs with this Plum Anise Shrub, a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and aromatic flavors that will elevate your beverages.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ripe plums, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 whole star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped plums and granulated sugar. Mash gently with a fork to release the juices, then cover and let sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
2. After 24 hours, strain the plum mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the apple cider vinegar, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the plum syrup. Stir well to combine, then transfer to a clean jar. Seal and let infuse in the refrigerator for at least 3 days, shaking gently once a day.
4. After 3 days, strain the shrub through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle, discarding the star anise and cinnamon stick. Your Plum Anise Shrub is now ready to use!

The magic of this shrub lies in its layered flavors— the initial sweetness of plums, the tang of vinegar, and the warm spice of anise and cinnamon create a complex base for cocktails or mocktails.

Tip: For a sparkling drink, mix 1-2 tablespoons of the shrub with ice and top with soda water. Garnish with a fresh plum slice for an extra touch of elegance.

Fig Balsamic Shrub

Dive into the sweet and tangy world of homemade shrubs with this Fig Balsamic Shrub, a delightful syrup that’s perfect for elevating your cocktails or sparkling water.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh figs, stemmed and quartered
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup fresh figs, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the figs to soften and the mixture to thicken slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.
4. Strain the shrub through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the figs to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
5. Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Shake well before using.

The deep, rich flavors of fig and balsamic vinegar create a complex shrub that’s both versatile and irresistibly flavorful. Try it in a spritzer with sparkling water and a slice of orange for a refreshing twist.

Tip: For a smoother shrub, blend the fig mixture before straining to break down the fruit completely.

Conclusion

We hope these 18 refreshing shrub recipes inspire your next culinary adventure! Perfect for home cooks looking to add a creative twist to their drinks, each recipe promises a burst of flavor. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for more delicious inspiration. Happy mixing!

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