As the temperatures rise and the sun shines bright, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to quench your thirst. And what better way to beat the heat than with a glass of citrusy goodness featuring the star of the show: lemon vodka! This summer, we’re shaking things up (or should I say, stirring?) with 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the brightness of lemons with the smoothness of vodka. From classic lemonade and spritzers to spicy martinis and fruity fizzes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of revitalizing drinks.
Lemon Vodka Sparkler with Fresh Mint
Elevate your cocktail game with this zesty and revitalizing drink, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day. This Lemon Vodka Sparkler with Fresh Mint combines the brightness of lemon with the coolness of mint, making it a must-try for anyone looking to beat the heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 ounces sparkling water
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and lemon juice.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Muddle a few fresh mint leaves into the drink, if desired.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just minutes.
Citrus Vodka Lemonade
This recipe combines the tanginess of lemonade with the brightness of citrus and the smoothness of vodka, perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual sipping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup vodka (citrus-flavored or plain)
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– Sliced citrus fruits (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add vodka, water, orange juice, and grapefruit juice to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with sliced citrus fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep time includes chilling)
Spicy Lemon Vodka Martini
Elevate your martini game with this spicy and tangy twist, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a flavor boost.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz vodka
– 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
– 0.25 oz ginger liqueur
– 0.25 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 dashes cayenne pepper-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, ginger liqueur, and simple syrup.
3. Add 2 dashes of cayenne pepper-infused simple syrup.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Lemon Vodka Berry Smash
This refreshing cocktail combines the tanginess of lemon with the sweetness of berries and a hint of vodka, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz lemon-flavored vodka
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 sprig of mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, and a handful of ice.
2. Shake until chilled and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
3. Add mixed berries to the glass and muddle gently with a spoon to release their juices.
4. Top with lemon-lime soda and garnish with a sprig of mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Honey Lemon Vodka Sour
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of honey with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a tangy vodka sour. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and honey, dissolved)
– 1 egg white
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to emulsify the egg white and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few shakes.
Lemon Vodka Ginger Fizz
Brighten up your day with this refreshing cocktail that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and ginger with a hint of vodka. This fizzy drink is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
– Sprig of fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and ginger liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint (if desired).
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Tropical Lemon Vodka Punch
Elevate your next gathering with this refreshing Tropical Lemon Vodka Punch! A perfect blend of citrusy and sweet, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any party or celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 liters lemon-lime soda
– 1 liter pineapple juice
– 1 cup vodka (lemon-flavored or regular)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine (optional, for a fruity twist)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves and tropical fruit slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, and vodka.
2. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and simple syrup until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add a splash of grenadine (if using) and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and tropical fruit slices.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Lemon Vodka Basil Smash
Elevate your summer cocktails with this refreshing twist on the classic Smash recipe. This Lemon Vodka Basil Smash combines the brightness of lemon and basil with the smoothness of vodka, making it a perfect drink for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh basil leaves
– Club soda
– Ice
– Lemon wheel or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Muddle the basil leaves gently in the mixture.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
6. Top with club soda.
7. Garnish with a lemon wheel or slice.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Lemon Vodka Cucumber Cooler
Perfect for hot summer days, this light and revitalizing cocktail combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the cooling essence of cucumber and a hint of vodka. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delightful drink in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slice or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the sliced cucumber to the pitcher and stir gently.
3. Fill the pitcher with ice cubes.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with a lemon slice or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Lemon Vodka Rosemary Spritz
Elevate your social gatherings with this revitalizing cocktail that combines the brightness of lemon, the spice of rosemary, and the smoothness of vodka. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz lemon-flavored vodka
– 4 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with Prosecco or sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Vodka Mule with Lime
Elevate your Moscow Mule game with the brightness of lemon and a squeeze of lime. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a citrusy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1/2 lemon
– Juice of 1/2 lime
– Slice of lime, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the vodka and squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice and drop in the lime slice.
5. Stir once more, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to drink as soon as you’re done mixing it up.
Lemon Vodka Peach Bellini
Combine the sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of lemon and vodka in this refreshing twist on the classic Bellini cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, pureed
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (such as Grey Goose or Absolut)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups Prosecco or champagne
– Ice cubes
– Sliced peaches for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the pureed peach and vodka to the shaker.
3. Squeeze in the lemon juice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into chilled champagne flutes or glasses.
5. Top each glass off with Prosecco or champagne.
6. Garnish with a slice of peach.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Lemon Vodka Elderflower Cocktail
A refreshing twist on classic cocktails, this Lemon Vodka Elderflower cocktail combines the sweetness of elderflower liqueur with the tanginess of lemon and vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of soda water
– Lemon wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Cooking Time: None required!
Lemon Vodka Iced Tea
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic iced tea. Infused with the zesty flavor of lemon and a hint of vodka, this drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 tea bags (black or green tea)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup vodka (such as Grey Goose or Absolut)
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea bags in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then remove and discard the tea bags.
2. Stir in the lemon juice and vodka until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just brew, chill, and serve.
Lemon Vodka Raspberry Collins
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this refreshing twist on the classic Collins recipe. The combination of lemon vodka, raspberry puree, and citrusy soda creates a fruity and bubbly drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces lemon vodka
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 4 ounces lemon-lime soda
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Ice
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the raspberries and simple syrup to release their flavors and juices.
2. Add the lemon vodka and shake well to combine.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake again for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda and squeeze in the juice of one lemon.
6. Garnish with fresh raspberries and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Vodka Pineapple Splash
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of lemon and a hint of vodka, making it perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a crisp drink.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 oz (120 ml) pineapple juice
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the vodka, lemon juice, and pineapple juice.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. If desired, add a splash of grenadine syrup for a slightly sweeter flavor.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or pineapple wedges.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 2 minutes
– Total time: 2 minutes
Lemon Vodka Lavender Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and delicious Lemon Vodka Lavender Fizz. This fizzy drink combines the brightness of lemon, the smoothness of vodka, and the subtle sweetness of lavender for a truly memorable experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz lemon-flavored vodka
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup lavender syrup (see note)
– 3 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and lavender syrup. Shake until chilled.
3. Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
4. Top with Prosecco or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Lemon Vodka Grapefruit Twist
Brighten up your evening with this zesty and revitalizing cocktail that combines the tanginess of grapefruit, the brightness of lemon, and the smoothness of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in under 30 seconds.
Lemon Vodka Mojito
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this refreshing Lemon Vodka Mojito, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a citrusy twist.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6-8 oz club soda
– Handful of ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Lemon Vodka Watermelon Slush
This sweet and tangy slush is perfect for hot summer days. With the combination of juicy watermelon, zesty lemon, and a hint of vodka, you’ll be enjoying a refreshing drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (or to taste)
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, lemon juice, and vodka. Blend until smooth.
2. Add simple syrup and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or vodka to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing lemon vodka recipes! From classic cocktails to fruity twists, we’ve got you covered. Try making a Lemon Vodka Sparkler with Fresh Mint for a simple yet elegant drink, or spice things up with a Spicy Lemon Vodka Martini. Other standouts include the Honey Lemon Vodka Sour and the Tropical Lemon Vodka Punch. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, sour, or sassy, there’s a lemon vodka recipe on this list that’s sure to quench your thirst.
