Which mixing method is preferred for cocktails using fresh fruits?

The preferred mixing method for cocktails using fresh fruits is blending. This technique is ideal because it allows for the thorough integration of fresh fruit, capturing its flavors and aromas while also ensuring a smooth texture. Blending enables the fruits to be completely broken down, making it easier to release their juices and natural sweetness into the cocktail. This results in a well-mixed drink where the fruit flavor is pronounced and consistent throughout.

In contrast, shaking and stirring are methods that are more effective with liquid ingredients or muddling fruits without completely pulverizing them. Furthermore, layering would not be suitable since it is meant for drinks that maintain distinct layers, which wouldn’t provide the homogenous mixture typically desired in fruit-based cocktails. Blending stands out as the best method to create a unified, refreshing cocktail that showcases the fresh fruit's attributes.