Easy Lemon Vodka Cocktail Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make at home. No need for fancy bar tools or hard-to-find ingredients. Just shake it, strain it, and enjoy. You can keep it classic, turn it into a Lemon Drop, top it with sparkling water for a fizzy twist, or blend it into a frozen treat on warm days.

This cocktail works well for all kinds of moments. Serve it at a summer cookout, bring it out at a dinner party, or just enjoy one on a quiet evening when you want something light. In this post, you’ll get the basic recipe, find a few top vodka picks, and learn some fun ways to customize the flavor with different garnishes or add-ins.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this drink is such a go-to favorite.

What's in a Lemon Vodka?

This lemon vodka cocktail is all about fresh, simple ingredients. You’ll mix vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup for a crisp, citrusy drink. We’re using plain vodka with real lemon juice, not flavored vodka, though you can swap that in if you want.

Ingredients and Swaps

Vodka - Stick with a smooth brand like Tito’s, Absolut, or Ketel One. Flavored vodka like Citron works too for extra lemon flavor. Skip the cheap stuff if you can.

Lemon Juice - Fresh is best. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch but won’t taste as bright.

Simple Syrup - Made from equal parts sugar and hot water. You can also use honey syrup, agave, or flavored syrups if you want to mix it up.

Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to pull it all together:

• Cocktail shaker
• Fine mesh strainer
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Coupe or martini glass

If you need a complete set to get started, check out this stainless steel bar tool kit that covers all the basics.

How to Make a Lemon Vodka Cocktail

You only need three simple ingredients to mix up a lemon vodka cocktail that tastes fresh, bright, and balanced.

Start by grabbing your shaker. Pour in the vodka first, then add fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Stick to a 2:1:1 ratio (that’s two parts vodka, one part lemon juice, and one part simple syrup) to keep the flavors balanced.

Fill your shaker about three-quarters full with ice. Using more ice helps everything chill faster and mix better.

Shake it hard for about 10 seconds, or until the shaker feels cold in your hands. That chill is what gives your cocktail that clean, refreshing taste.

Strain your drink into a coupe or martini glass. If you want a little fizz, add a splash of soda water on top.

To finish, go with a lemon twist or a lemon wheel. A twist adds a burst of citrus aroma when you squeeze the peel over your drink. A wheel gives a simple, clean look if you prefer that.

You’ll find the exact measurements in the recipe card below so you can follow along.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Lemon Vodka Cocktail

• Go with fresh lemon juice whenever you can. It makes the drink brighter and more flavorful. Bottled juice just doesn’t hit the same.
• Not a fan of too much sweetness? Start with a little simple syrup, then adjust to your taste.
• For a smoother sip, strain your drink through a fine mesh strainer. If you don’t mind a little pulp, you can skip it.
• Roll your lemons on the counter before cutting. Pressing down as you roll helps you get more juice out.

Lemon Vodka Variations You Can Try

• Lemon Drop Martini - Want something a little fancier? Add ½ oz of triple sec to your base recipe. Rim the glass with sugar for a sweet touch that balances the tart lemon.
• Sparkling Lemon Vodka - Top your drink with soda water or lemon seltzer. It’s light, fizzy, and perfect for brunch or a sunny afternoon.
• Lemon-Lime Slush - Blend vodka with fresh lime juice, lemon simple syrup, and a handful of ice. It’s cold, tangy, and perfect for hot days.
• Lemon Vodka Tonic with Raspberry Syrup - Add tonic water and a splash of raspberry syrup. You’ll get a pretty pink drink with a berry twist that pairs well with lemon.

More Vodka Cocktails You Might Like

If you’re ready to try more easy vodka drinks, here are a few classics and crowd favorites to explore:

• Vodka Collins
• Lemon Drop Martini
• Vodka Gimlet
• Peach Vodka Cocktail
• Grapefruit Vodka Sour
• Vodka Cranberry
• Spa Day Cocktail
• Moscow Mule
• Vodka and Apple Juice
• Vodka Sour

Want more inspiration? Check out these 2-ingredient vodka cocktails and explore some go-to mixers that pair well with vodka for even more easy ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions