Looking for a light and refreshing cocktail to serve and enjoy? A vodka lemonade is an easy and delicious addition to your hosting menu. Enjoy the tart, sweet tang of lemonade, perfectly balanced with a hint of aromatic fresh thyme.
This is not your traditional cocktail with lemonade. In fact, it’s far more simple in both how you make it and in its taste, elevated with a gorgeous and fragrant touch of fresh herbs.
I always try to make things that are beautiful, simple and delectable – and this cocktail is no exception!
You know I love playing bartender and mixing up a fabulous, fresh cocktail on the weekends with friends. The simpler, the better of course… but sometimes a fresh, vibrant combination is totally worth an extra step or two!
That’s the case with this refreshing vodka lemonade cocktail. It’s the perfect blend of clean, smooth vodka with a sweet and tart bite of lemonade.
Even better? Add a touch of fresh herbs for the most delightful little spring and summer touch you can imagine! This is the perfect cocktail for porch sitting, and I know you’re going to love it.
If you love a fabulous cocktail too, don’t skip my complete Tequila Guide, the Best Margarita Mix, and so much more! In fact, you can learn how to set up a DIY Mojito Bar that will be the best feature of your next gathering – don’t miss it, along with the Best Rum for Mojitos!
Why You’ll Love This Vodka Lemonade
- Easy to Make
- Simple Ingredients
- Great for Entertaining
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Sparkling Lemonade – A crisp and refreshing base for your cocktail.
- Fresh Thyme – It looks and smells great, while adding the slightest hint of natural earthiness to your cocktail, heightening the lemony flavor.
- Vodka – I like Ketel One, Grey Goose, Absolut or Tito’s (great option to make it gluten free)
Variations
- Substitute sparkling strawberry lemonade to add a fruity flavor.
- Lower the sugar content with a sugar-free sparkling lemonade option.
- Mix with Tequila or Gin for a slightly different variation of this yummy cocktail!
- Try a different herb! Rosemary or basil will work beautifully.
How to Make
- Mix sparkling lemonade and vodka in a shaker or by stirring well.
- Add to sprigs of fresh thyme.
- Pour over ice.
Watch the video where Julie will walk you through each step of this easy recipe. You will find a collection of recipe videos right here on our website with corresponding recipes.
Tips
- Allow your cocktail time to set so the thyme is infused.
- If using a shaker to mix your drink, make sure to use lots of ice for best results.
- Thinly slice a lemon or two to add as an extra garnish or add to your glass.
- Muddle the thyme to draw out more of the earthy flavor by extracting its oil.
Shortcuts
- Buy sparkling lemonade. Grocery stores offer a variety of different options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short answer: Your favorite kind of vodka will work just fine for this recipe!
Long answer: I like Ketel One, Grey Goose, Absolut or Tito’s.
Using Tito’s vodka is a great option for mixing a gluten-free cocktail!
Yes! Learn how to make simple syrup here.
Be creative and use your favorite lemonade variation. You will lose the fizz, but the flavor will still taste great!
Make Ahead
- Cut small sprigs of thyme before crafting your cocktail, just keep cool and dry. Prepare lemons or any other garnish as well before guests arrive.
How to Store
- Refrigerate – Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add fresh sparkling lemonade when ready to serve.
What to Do with Leftovers
- Leftover thyme should be kept dry and can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks!
More Cocktails
Vodka Thyme Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 cup sparkling lemonade
- 3 ounces vodka
- 1 sprig fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Mix sparkling lemonade and vodka in a shaker or by stirring well.
- Add to sprigs of fresh thyme.
- Pour over ice.
Julie’s Tips
- Allow your cocktail time to set so the thyme is infused.
- If using a shaker to mix your drink, make sure to use lots of ice for best results.
- Thinly slice a lemon or two to add as an extra garnish or add to your glass.
- Muddle the thyme to draw out more of the earthy flavor by extracting its oil.
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.
