Chill out with this simple Vodka Collins recipe! Crafted with vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, this refreshing cocktail is ideal for spring.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
213
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Soda water
- Lemon slice and maraschino cherry - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Collins Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Shaker
- Strainer
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Chill your Collins glass with some ice cubes.
- Add Simple Syrup: Measure and pour 1 oz simple syrup into the shaker.
- Add Lemon Juice: Add 1 oz lemon juice to the mix.
- Add Vodka: Pour 2 oz Vodka into the shaker.
- Prep Shaker: Fill your shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake It Up: Give it a good shake until everything is well-mixed.
- Prep Glass: Fill your Collins glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain: Strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass.
- Top with Soda: Top up the glass with soda water.
- Garnish: Place a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry on top for garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Vodka: If you're out of vodka, gin can be a great substitute, giving the drink a more botanical flavor. Tequila could also work if you're looking for a Mexican kick.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice can replace lemon juice with a different citrus twist.
- Simple Syrup: If you don't have simple syrup, you can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat. Alternatively, use honey or agave syrup.
Making a Pitcher of Vodka Collins:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of vodka, 8 oz of lemon juice, and 8 oz of simple syrup.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into individual ice-filled Collins glasses, top with soda water, garnish with a lemon slice and maraschino cherry, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Vodka Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic vodka substitute; several brands are available that mimic the flavor of vodka without the alcohol.
- Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of regular vodka, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
Making it Vegan:
- Simple Syrup: Ensure your syrup is made with sugar that it is not processed with animal-derived products or use another vegan-friendly sweetener.
- Maraschino Cherry: Some brands of maraschino cherries use natural or artificial flavors derived from animal sources. Look for a brand that uses vegan-friendly flavors, or opt for a fresh cherry instead.
What is a Vodka Collins?
A Vodka Collins is a spirit-based cocktail made of vodka, lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water. It’s relatively easy to make as it only requires a few ingredients and simple mixing techniques. The Vodka Collins is a variant of the classic Tom Collins cocktail, which traditionally uses gin instead of vodka.
What is a Vodka Collins made of – The ingredients
To concoct your Vodka Collins, assemble these ingredients:
- Vodka: The primary alcohol in a Vodka Collins provides the cocktail’s characteristic kick.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Simple Syrup: This sweetener enhances the vodka and lemon juice, making the cocktail palatable.
- Club Soda: Gives the drink its signature fizz and dilutes the strong flavors, making it refreshing.
- Ice Cubes: Cools down the drink and slightly dilutes it over time, ensuring it’s not too strong.
- Lemon Slice (for garnish): Enhances presentation and adds a hint of extra citrus flavor when squeezed into the drink.
- Maraschino Cherry (for garnish): Adds a pop of color for visual appeal and a sweetness when eaten.
