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 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute minute
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Soda water
- Lemon slice and maraschino cherry - for garnish, optional
Collins Glass
Measuring Jigger
Shaker
Strainer
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.
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.