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Vodka Collins Cocktail Drink

Vodka Collins Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
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.