As the sun shines bright and warm, we crave refreshing drinks that quench our thirst and lift our spirits. When it comes to summer cocktails, few ingredients are as revitalizing as the zesty flavor of lemon and the smoothness of vodka. In this collection of 18 refreshing lemon vodka recipes, we’ll take you on a journey through a range of tantalizing flavors, from classic spritzes to fruity fizzes.
From sweet treats like Lemon Drop Martini with a Twist and Frozen Lemon Vodka Slush, to tangy twists like Lemon Ginger Vodka Mule and Spicy Lemon Vodka Paloma, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply looking for a cool way to beat the heat, these lemon vodka recipes are sure to impress.
Lemon Vodka Spritz with Mint
This revitalizing drink combines the brightness of lemon and mint with the smoothness of vodka, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz 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)
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka, Prosecco, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the glass.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This spritz is ready to drink as soon as you’ve prepared it.
Sparkling Lemon Vodka Punch
Get ready to toast with a refreshing twist on the classic vodka punch! This Sparkling Lemon Vodka Punch is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 liters lemon-lime soda
– 1 cup vodka (any flavor)
– 2 cups mixed juice (such as pineapple, orange, and cranberry)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of lemon and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the lemon-lime soda, vodka, mixed juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish with slices of lemon and lime.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready when you are!)
Citrus Vodka Lemonade
This recipe combines the sweetness of lemonade with the tanginess of citrus and the crispness of vodka, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup citrus-flavored vodka (such as Limoncello or Cointreau)
– 4 cups lemon-lime soda
– Sliced lemons and limes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the citrus-flavored vodka and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
5. Serve over ice with sliced lemons and limes as garnish.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (all ingredients are chilled or already prepared)
Lemon Drop Martini with a Twist
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this zesty twist on the classic Lemon Drop Martini. A sweet and tangy combination of lemon, vodka, and simple syrup, elevated by a hint of citrus and a touch of sparkle.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Lemon-flavored Vodka
• 1 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 1/2 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1/4 oz Triple Sec or other Orange Liqueur
• Salt for rimming glass (optional)
• Lemon Twist or Wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a chilled martini glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, simple syrup, lemon juice, and triple sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Frozen Lemon Vodka Slush
Beat the heat with this refreshing and tangy frozen slush, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vodka-infused lemonade (see note)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 cups ice
– 1/4 cup frozen lemon-lime soda
– Lemon slices or wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine vodka-infused lemonade, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Blend until smooth.
2. Add ice to the blender and blend until crushed and slushy.
3. Stir in frozen lemon-lime soda until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with lemon slices or wedges.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (blending time)
Note: To make vodka-infused lemonade, mix 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice with 2 cups vodka in a pitcher. Stir well to combine. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Strain before using.
Honey Lemon Vodka Smash
Brighten up your cocktail game with this refreshing Honey Lemon Vodka Smash! This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want to add a touch of sunshine to your gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3 oz ginger ale
– Ice
– Lemon slice or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with ginger ale.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish with a lemon slice or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Lemon Basil Vodka Collins
This Lemon Basil Vodka Collins recipe combines the bright citrus flavor of lemon with the subtle sweetness of basil, all wrapped up in a refreshing vodka cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice
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 (about 10-15 seconds).
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
6. Top with sparkling water.
7. Garnish with a lemon slice and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blueberry Lemon Vodka Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this fruity and bubbly Blueberry Lemon Vodka Fizz. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up, this recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lemon and vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 cups (250 g) fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup (240 ml) Prosecco or sparkling wine
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blueberries with a spoon or bar muddler to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a wine glass filled with ice.
5. Top with Prosecco or sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None!
Lemon Ginger Vodka Mule
Elevate your classic Moscow Mule with a zesty twist of lemon and ginger flavors. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a little citrusy fun.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 4 ounces ginger beer
– Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
– Slice of fresh ginger, about 1 inch long
– Lime wheel, 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. Add the sliced fresh ginger as garnish.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink, then drop it in.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Rosemary Lemon Vodka Sour
A refreshing twist on the classic vodka sour, this recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and rosemary to create a unique and delicious cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz rosemary-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Dash of sparkling water
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lemon juice, regular simple syrup, and rosemary-infused simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a dash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make rosemary-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and add 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining out the herbs.
Lemon Vodka Mojito
This Lemon Vodka Mojito recipe combines the tanginess of lemon with the coolness of vodka, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup (6 oz or 180 ml) club soda
– Handful of ice
– Sprig of mint leaves for garnish
– Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the shaker and muddle (gently crush) them with a spoon or muddler.
3. Fill the shaker with club soda and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint leaves and a lemon slice.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Tropical Lemon Vodka Splash
A refreshing twist on a classic cocktail, this Tropical Lemon Vodka Splash combines the sweetness of pineapple and lemon with the crispness of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine
– Ice
– Lemon wheel and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add a splash of grenadine.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and cherry.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Lavender Lemon Vodka Spritzer
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and flavorful spritzer, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz lavender-infused vodka
– 4 oz lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Sliced lemons and sprigs of fresh lavender for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the lavender-infused vodka and lemon-lime soda.
2. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice until well combined.
3. Add the dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture into individual glasses filled with ice.
5. Garnish with sliced lemons and a sprig of fresh lavender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
This Lavender Lemon Vodka Spritzer is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy, perfect for sipping on a warm day or serving at your next gathering.
Lemon Vodka Creamsicle
Escape to a sunny summer day with this refreshing cocktail that combines the tanginess of lemon with the smoothness of vodka and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top with heavy cream and stir gently to create a layered effect.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 2 minutes
– Total time: 2 minutes
Spicy Lemon Vodka Paloma
Spicy Lemon Vodka Paloma Recipe
Summer’s Spiciest Refresher
This Spicy Lemon Vodka Paloma is a twist on the classic Paloma cocktail, with the added kick of jalapeño peppers and a burst of citrus from freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz agave syrup
– 1/4 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Fresh lemon slice and sprig of rosemary, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and jalapeño simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice and sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: N/A (this is a cocktail recipe!)
Note: To make jalapeño simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2-3 sliced jalapeños in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup and let it cool before using.
Lemon Thyme Vodka Cooler
Combine the bright citrus flavors of lemon and thyme with crisp vodka for a revitalizing summer drink. This Lemon Thyme Vodka Cooler is perfect for hot days by the pool or as a unique cocktail for your next gathering.
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)
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– Club soda
– Lemon slices or wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the fresh thyme leaves to the pitcher and muddle (gently press) them with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, top the cooler with club soda and stir gently.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices or wedges.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes.
Peach Lemon Vodka Smash
A refreshing summer cocktail that combines the sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of lemon and the smoothness of vodka, perfect for hot days or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz peach-flavored vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 slices of fresh peaches
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the peach-flavored vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Muddle the peach slices gently to release their flavors and textures.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cucumber Lemon Vodka Tonic
This revitalizing cocktail combines the coolness of cucumber with the brightness of lemon and the smoothness of vodka, perfect for warm days or casual gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this refreshing drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 4-6 slices of fresh cucumber
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
– Tonic water
– Ice
– Lime wheel (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices with a spoon or the back of a spoon to release their flavor and oils.
2. Add vodka and lemon juice to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing lemon vodka recipes! From classic cocktails to fruity twists, there’s something for everyone. Try a Lemon Vodka Spritz with Mint for a light and zesty drink, or opt for a Sparkling Lemon Vodka Punch for a party-perfect treat. For a sweet and tangy twist, mix up some Citrus Vodka Lemonade or indulge in a Lemon Drop Martini with a Twist. And that’s just the beginning – discover 16 more recipes to keep you cool all summer long.
