As the sun sets and the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like gathering with friends and family to enjoy a refreshing vodka cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want to unwind after a long day, these 20 delicious vodka drinks are sure to hit the spot.
From classic twists on timeless favorites to innovative combinations of flavors and ingredients, we’ve got you covered for your summer sipping needs. So grab a glass, gather ’round, and get ready to beat the heat with some of our favorite vodka recipes.
Classic Vodka Martini with a Twist
Experience the essence of sophistication with this timeless cocktail, elevated by a subtle twist.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) dry vermouth
– Green olives for garnish
– Lemon twist or strip for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka and vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir gently for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a green olive on a toothpick and a lemon twist or strip.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Enjoy your Classic Vodka Martini with a Twist, a refreshing blend of crisp flavors and elegant simplicity.
Spicy Moscow Mule with Ginger Beer
Elevate your Moscow Mule game with a spicy twist! This refreshing drink combines the classic flavors of vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer with a kick of heat from jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
3. Stir in sliced jalapeño pepper.
4. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
5. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Strawberry Basil Vodka Lemonade
This refreshing twist on classic lemonade combines the sweetness of strawberries with the brightness of basil and a hint of vodka. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or just a hot summer afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup vodka (preferably a citrus-flavored one)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree strawberries and basil until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine vodka, lemon juice, and strawberry-basil mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with additional basil leaves or sliced strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Cucumber Mint Vodka Cooler
Beat the heat with this revitalizing cocktail that combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and mint with a splash of vodka. Perfect for hot summer days or nights out with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 cup fresh cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the cucumber slices with a spoon or muddler to release their flavor and oils.
2. Add the mint leaves and muddle gently to combine.
3. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the mixture over the ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just 5 minutes.
Tropical Pineapple Vodka Punch
Tropical Pineapple Vodka Punch Recipe
Combine the flavors of tropical paradise with this refreshing vodka punch, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 liters pineapple juice
– 1 cup vodka (your preferred brand)
– 1 cup mixed fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, and pineapple)
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine syrup
– Sliced fresh pineapple, orange, and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, mixed fruit juices, and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vodka to the mixture and stir well.
3. Add a splash of grenadine syrup for a touch of sweetness and depth.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Tropical Pineapple Vodka Punch over ice in tall glasses, garnished with sliced fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready to serve.
Blackberry Vodka Smash
A refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of blackberries with the crispness of vodka and a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz blackberry-flavored vodka
– 4 oz lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and mint leaves together.
2. Add the vodka and fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Peach Iced Tea Vodka Cocktail
Beat the heat with this refreshing peachy keen cocktail, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (peach-flavored or regular)
– 4 oz peach iced tea
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of fresh peaches for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, peach iced tea, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with fresh peach slices.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Lavender Vodka Collins
Lavender Vodka Collins Recipe
Experience the sweet charm of lavender in this refreshing cocktail. The subtle floral flavors of lavender complement the crisp citrus and herbal notes, making it a perfect drink for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka infused with dried lavender (or regular vodka with a few drops of lavender extract)
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 oz simple syrup
– 3 oz club soda
– Fresh lavender buds and lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the lavender-infused vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake gently for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with fresh lavender buds and a lemon twist.
Cooking Time: None
Watermelon Vodka Slush
Beat the heat with this refreshing watermelon vodka slush, perfect for hot summer days and gatherings. Made with fresh watermelon puree, vodka, and a hint of lime, this sweet treat is sure to become your new go-to drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 3 tablespoons simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. Add the vodka, simple syrup, and lime juice to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or lime juice as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into glasses filled with ice.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, just blend and enjoy!
Espresso Vodka Martini
Elevate your martini game with this unique and delicious combination of espresso and vodka. Perfect for coffee aficionados and martini lovers alike, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz Espresso-infused vodka
• 1/2 oz Freshly brewed espresso
• 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 1/4 oz Heavy cream
• 1 dash of chocolate syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso-infused vodka, freshly brewed espresso, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just minutes.
Blueberry Vodka Fizz
Refresh your spirits with this sweet and tangy Blueberry Vodka Fizz! Made with fresh blueberries, vodka, and a splash of lemonade, this drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz blueberry-flavored vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 oz lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– 1 cup fresh blueberries, muddled
– Ice
– Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blueberries with a spoon to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the vodka and lemon juice to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in under 10 minutes.
Coconut Lime Vodka Spritzer
A refreshing twist on the classic spritzer, this Coconut Lime Vodka Spritzer combines the creamy richness of coconut with the zesty brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz vodka (preferably a coconut-flavored or plain)
– 2 oz lime juice
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 4 oz soda water
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional, for garnish)
– Lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and lime juice.
3. Add the coconut cream and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with soda water and stir briefly.
5. Garnish with a splash of grenadine syrup, if desired (the subtle sweetness pairs well with the coconut).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with a lime wedge and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Blood Orange Vodka Sour
This recipe combines the tartness of blood oranges with the smoothness of vodka to create a unique and revitalizing cocktail. Perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz blood orange vodka
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Dash of triple sec or Cointreau (optional)
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add blood orange vodka, blood orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. If desired, add a dash of triple sec or Cointreau for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Raspberry Vodka Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy twist on the classic mojito. Fresh raspberries and raspberry vodka combine for a fruity and refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz raspberry vodka
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz club soda
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Handful of fresh raspberries, muddled
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the raspberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Fill a highball glass with ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None (simply shake and serve)
Vanilla Vodka Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a rich and creamy Vanilla Vodka Hot Chocolate!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vanilla vodka
– Whipped cream and marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla vodka.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and marshmallows, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pomegranate Vodka Sparkler
Elevate your cocktail game with this simple and elegant Pomegranate Vodka Sparkler. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a fruity and bubbly drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces pomegranate-flavored vodka
– 4 ounces sparkling water
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the pomegranate-flavored vodka.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice.
5. Add mixed berries to the glass.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Grapefruit Rosemary Vodka Cocktail
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this refreshing twist on the classic vodka soda. The tartness of grapefruit and the herbal notes of rosemary create a unique and invigorating flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz rosemary syrup (see below)
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
– Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
Rosemary Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sugar dissolves. Add rosemary leaves and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, grapefruit juice, and rosemary syrup.
3. Shake until chilled and combined.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Cooking Time: None! Simply combine ingredients and shake.
Caramel Apple Vodka Punch
Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties, this Caramel Apple Vodka Punch is a delicious and refreshing drink that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crisp taste of apple.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 liters vodka
– 1 cup caramel syrup
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sliced apples for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine vodka and caramel syrup. Stir until the caramel is fully dissolved.
2. Add apple juice and stir well.
3. Top with ginger ale and stir gently.
4. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
5. Chill punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced apples.
Cooking Time: None required!
Chocolate Cherry Vodka Martini
This indulgent cocktail combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of cherries, all wrapped up in a velvety vodka martini. Perfect for special occasions or a nightcap to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon maraschino liqueur
– 1/4 cup crushed cherries with stems
– Chocolate shavings or whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, white chocolate liqueur, cherry liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Shake until chilled (about 15-20 seconds).
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Drizzle maraschino liqueur down the inside of the glass.
6. Garnish with crushed cherries and chocolate shavings or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just minutes.
Spiced Pear Vodka Sangria
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and delicious Spiced Pear Vodka Sangria recipe, perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions. This flavorful drink combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears and the smoothness of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
– 1/2 cup pear vodka
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Sliced pears for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine white wine, pear vodka, and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add chopped fresh pear, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves to the pitcher.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain sangria into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with sliced pears.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing vodka drink recipes perfect for summer nights! From classic twists on the martini to fruity and bubbly punches, there’s something for everyone. Try the Strawberry Basil Vodka Lemonade, Cucumber Mint Vodka Cooler, or Tropical Pineapple Vodka Punch for a taste of summer in a glass. Whether you’re looking for sweet and sassy or tangy and refreshing, these 20 recipes will keep your summer nights cool and lively.