Vodka Sour Recipe

If you’re into cocktails, this vodka sour recipe is one you’ll want to try. It’s that perfect balance of sweet and sour that just hits the spot, whether you’re winding down after a long day or enjoying a warm evening with friends.

Making a vodka sour is actually pretty simple. All you need are a few ingredients: vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. If you’re feeling fancy, add a bit of egg white or aquafaba for that smooth, foamy top that makes each sip feel extra special. Just grab a shaker, and you’re minutes away from a drink that tastes like it was made at your favorite bar.

The best part is you can make it your own. Try adding a splash of bitters or garnish it with a cherry to give it a personal touch. A couple of easy tweaks can really bring out the flavors and take it to a whole new level, and trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort.

Ready to shake things up? Whether you stick with the classic or get creative with your own twist, this vodka sour recipe is sure to be a hit in your home bar. Here’s to discovering your next favorite cocktail!

What is a Vodka Sour?

The vodka sour is one of those drinks that’s simple, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to fall in love with. It’s part of the classic sour cocktail family, which means it’s all about a great balance between the spirit, a splash of citrus, and a little sweetness.

One of the best things about a vodka sour is how easy it is to make it your own. You can play with the sweetness, add some fresh berries, or even throw in a sprig of herbs if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re not into the egg, no worries, it’s still super refreshing without it. And for a twist, try using a flavored syrup or even a squeeze of calamansi juice for something a bit different. The vodka sour is all about flexibility, which is why it’s a favorite for so many cocktail lovers.

Ingredients for the Perfect Vodka Sour

A vodka sour is easy to make yet packed with flavor. Each ingredient brings something unique, blending together for a drink that’s both refreshing and smooth. Here’s everything you need to mix up this classic cocktail.

Vodka

Vodka is the main ingredient here, so choose one that’s smooth and good quality. You don’t need the priciest bottle, but going for something decent makes a big difference.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential. There’s nothing like that bright, tangy flavor you get from real lemons. It gives the drink a nice sour kick to balance the sweetness. A couple of fresh lemons are worth it. You’ll taste the difference.

Simple Syrup

Simple syrup adds a little sweetness to keep the drink from being too tart. It’s easy to make by mixing equal parts sugar and water over low heat until the sugar dissolves, then letting it cool. It blends in smoothly and adds just enough sweetness. Just a bit will do the trick.

Egg White

For a creamy, frothy texture, try adding an egg white. Shaking it with the other ingredients creates a smooth foam that feels great in every sip. If you want an egg-free option, try aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. It may sound strange, but it works wonders. That little layer of froth adds a nice touch.

Bitters

Adding a few dashes of bitters brings depth and makes the flavor richer. Angostura bitters are a popular choice, giving a hint of spice that rounds out the taste.

Garnishes

A lemon wheel or a maraschino cherry adds a nice finishing touch. They make the drink look great and add a little extra sweetness or color.

Related

How to Make a Vodka Sour Cocktail

Alright, let’s get mixing. There’s nothing like making a classic cocktail and enjoying that perfect balance of flavors.

1. Start by adding your vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters to a cocktail shaker. If you like that smooth, foamy texture, now’s the time to add an egg white or a bit of aquafaba if you’re going the vegan route.

2. To get that nice froth, give it a good shake without any ice first. This helps blend everything and creates that creamy texture. Then, toss in some ice and shake it again for about 15 to 20 seconds. You’ll know it’s just right when the shaker feels ice-cold in your hands.

3. Next, strain your cocktail into a rocks glass with ice, or if you’re in the mood for a chilled, no-ice version, pour it into a pre-chilled cocktail glass instead.

4. Top it off with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry if you like. These little touches make the drink look even better and add a bit of extra flavor.

Now just sit back, take a sip, and enjoy. Whether you’re making this for yourself or sharing it with friends, you’ve just created a timeless cocktail that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Cheers!

Popular Vodka Sour Variations

Let’s look at a few fun ways to put a new spin on the classic vodka sour. These twists add a bit of personality to your drink and make it even more enjoyable.

Cherry Vodka Sour
Add a splash of cherry liqueur or a bit of grenadine for a hint of sweetness and a pop of color. It’s like a grown-up version of a cherry soda.

Lemon-Lime Vodka Sour
Try mixing both lemon and lime juice. This adds a fresh, zesty twist that brings an extra layer of citrusy goodness.

Flavored Vodka Sours
Experiment with orange bitters or a touch of elderflower syrup for something a little different. Cranberry juice also works well if you’re in the mood for a fruity kick.

Tropical Vodka Sour
Pour in a bit of pineapple or passion fruit juice for a tropical feel. It’s like a mini vacation in a glass.

Herbal Vodka Sour
Add some fresh basil or mint. This brings a refreshing, fragrant vibe that makes each sip feel even fresher.

Trying these variations keeps things interesting and lets you get creative. There’s always a new way to make the vodka sour your own!

FAQs About Vodka Sour

What is a Vodka Sour made of?

A classic vodka sour is made with vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Some people like to add an egg white or a bit of aquafaba to get that frothy top, which is common in sour cocktails. Adding a dash of bitters is also an option to give the drink a little extra depth, balancing the vodka, citrus, and sweetness nicely.

Can I make a Vodka Sour without egg white?

Yes, you can definitely make a vodka sour without egg white. It adds a smooth, foamy texture, but it isn’t essential. If you’re looking for a vegan option, aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas, is a great substitute. You can also use a foaming agent if you have one on hand. Even without the foam, the drink is still delicious.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice really brings the best flavor to a vodka sour. It has that bright, zesty taste that makes the drink pop. If fresh lemons aren’t an option, bottled juice will work, though it might not be quite as vibrant. You may want to adjust the simple syrup a little to keep the flavor balanced.

What type of vodka works best?

A smooth, mid-range or higher-quality vodka is perfect for a vodka sour. Unflavored vodka keeps it classic, letting the lemon and simple syrup shine. If you’re in the mood to experiment, flavored vodka can add a fun twist. Choosing a good quality vodka makes a difference, so go with one that you enjoy.

What makes an alcoholic drink a “sour”?

A “sour” cocktail is all about balance, combining a spirit, something sour, and a bit of sweetness. This gives it that refreshing, sweet-tart flavor. In a vodka sour, you get that tartness from the lemon and sweetness from the simple syrup. Adding egg white is optional but brings a creamy texture and a nice foamy top for a little extra flair.

Other Sour Cocktails to Try

• Gin Sour Cocktail Recipe
• Mezcal Sour Cocktail Recipe

More Vodka Cocktails to Try

• 2 Ingredient Vodka Drinks
• Vodka Soda Cocktail Recipe
• Vodka Tonic Cocktail Recipe
• Vodka and Coke Recipe
• Vodka Strawberry Lemonade Recipe
• Best Vodka Mixers

Vodka Sour Recipe

The vodka sour is a simple but delicious cocktail that combines fresh citrus, smooth vodka, and simple syrup. It’s perfect whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with friends. This drink is refreshing, balanced, and easy to enjoy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• coupe glass or rocks glass

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 large pasteurized egg white or 2 tablespoons of aquafaba if you want a vegan option
• Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry to garnish if you like

Instructions

 

• First, fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and either the egg white or aquafaba.
• Shake it up really well to get everything mixed and frothy.
• Strain into your glass, holding back the ice with the strainer.
• Add a dash or two of bitters if you want a little extra depth, and garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry if you’re feeling fancy.

Notes

• Swap out the lemon juice for lime if you want a different citrusy flavor.
• Use honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetness.
• Try aquafaba instead of egg white if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option.

 

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version of the vodka sour. Enjoy mixing it up and cheers to a great cocktail!

Keyword vodka sour cocktail, vodka sour cocktail recipe, vodka sour recipe