When it comes to warm weather, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of vodka tonic to quench your thirst. But why settle for the same old classic recipe when you can add some excitement to your cocktail game? From sweet and fruity to tangy and savory, we’ve got 20 unique vodka tonic recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Whether you’re looking for a light and crisp drink or something more bold and adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into some of our favorite vodka tonic combinations that add a twist to the classic recipe. From unexpected flavors like cucumber mint and grapefruit rosemary, to spicy and savory options like ginger and jalapeño, these recipes will give you the inspiration you need to shake things up and try something new.
Classic Vodka Tonic with Lime
A refreshing and simple cocktail perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (preferably a neutral-tasting brand)
– 4 oz tonic water
– Juice of 1 lime
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka over the ice.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Squeeze in the juice of one lime, dropping the lime into the glass as well.
5. Stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Cucumber Mint Vodka Tonic
Beat the heat with this revitalizing twist on the classic vodka tonic. The combination of cool cucumber, invigorating mint, and crisp gin will quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Muddle the mint leaves and cucumber slices in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add the vodka and fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves or lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in minutes.
Grapefruit Rosemary Vodka Tonic
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic vodka tonic, featuring the bold flavors of grapefruit and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and tonic water.
3. Add the grapefruit juice and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the rosemary leaves on top of the cocktail.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and serve!)
Spicy Ginger Vodka Tonic
This refreshing cocktail combines the spicy kick of ginger beer with the crispness of vodka and a squeeze of lime, perfect for warm evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
– Slice of fresh ginger (optional, for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Blackberry Basil Vodka Tonic
This refreshing twist on the classic vodka tonic combines sweet blackberries and fragrant basil for a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for warm weather. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sophisticated cocktail that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Muddle the blackberries and basil in a cocktail shaker to release their flavors and oils.
2. Add the vodka and shake gently to combine.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with additional basil leaves or lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed – just mix and serve!
Elderflower Vodka Tonic
Elderflower Vodka Tonic Recipe
A refreshing twist on the classic G&T, this Elderflower Vodka Tonic combines the subtle sweetness of elderflowers with the crispness of tonic water and a hint of vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz Elderflower-infused vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– Slice of lime (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the elderflower-infused vodka.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a slice of lime over the drink, if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
None! This is a simple mix-and-serve recipe.
Lavender Honey Vodka Tonic
This refreshing cocktail combines the subtle flavors of lavender and honey with the crispness of tonic water, perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Lavender-infused vodka (see note)
– 1/2 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 4 oz Tonic water
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
– Fresh lavender sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the lavender-infused vodka and honey syrup.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a slice of lemon over the drink and drop it in.
6. Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed cocktail recipe, not a cooked dish.
Blood Orange Vodka Tonic
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic vodka tonic. The subtle sweetness of blood oranges pairs perfectly with the crisp, clean taste of vodka.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz blood orange vodka
• 4 oz tonic water
• Juice of 1 blood orange (about 2 tbsp)
• Slice of blood orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the blood orange vodka.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Add the juice of 1 blood orange, stirring gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Enjoy your Blood Orange Vodka Tonic!
Pineapple Jalapeño Vodka Tonic
Elevate your vodka tonic game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the flavors of pineapple, jalapeño, and lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 oz fresh pineapple juice
– 1/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the vodka and tonic water.
3. Squeeze in the pineapple and lime juices.
4. Place 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper into the glass.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Lemongrass Coconut Vodka Tonic
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing and exotic twist on the classic vodka tonic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Lemongrass-infused Coconut Vodka
– 4 oz Tonic water
– Juice of 1 lime
– Slice of lemongrass for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the lemongrass-infused coconut vodka.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Squeeze in the juice of one lime.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a slice of lemongrass.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Raspberry Lime Vodka Tonic
A refreshing twist on the classic vodka tonic, this recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the zing of lime for a perfect summer cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the raspberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the vodka and lime juice to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Pear Vodka Tonic
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing Vanilla Pear Vodka Tonic recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Vanilla Pear Vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– Slice of fresh pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– Sprig of mint leaves
– Lime wedge (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Vanilla Pear Vodka.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear and a sprig of mint leaves.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink, if desired (optional).
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Vanilla Pear Vodka Tonic!
Strawberry Balsamic Vodka Tonic
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, all wrapped up in a crisp vodka tonic. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a light and fruity drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or 1 tbsp regular balsamic vinegar)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced strawberries with the balsamic glaze until well combined.
2. Add the vodka to the shaker and fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Peach Thyme Vodka Tonic
Peachy Keen Vodka Tonic: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Cocktail
Combine the sweetness of peaches with the subtlety of thyme for a unique and revitalizing vodka tonic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces peach-infused vodka
– 4 ounces tonic water
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Slice of peach (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the peach-infused vodka and tonic water.
3. Add a sprig of fresh thyme to the glass.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of peach, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill, pour, and enjoy!
Blueberry Lemon Vodka Tonic
Escape to a warm summer evening with this revitalizing twist on the classic vodka tonic. A sweet and tangy blend of blueberries, lemon, and vodka, perfect for sipping by the pool or at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh blueberries and lemon slice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka and top with tonic water.
3. Muddle in the blueberries using a spoon or muddler to release their juice and flavor.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir gently.
5. Garnish with additional blueberries and a lemon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just 2-3 minutes.
Pomegranate Sage Vodka Tonic
Elevate your vodka tonic game with the sweet and savory flavors of pomegranate and sage. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz sage syrup (see below for recipe)
– Slices of fresh pomegranate and sage leaves for garnish
Simple Sage Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan, bring to boil. Remove from heat and add sage leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes, then strain and store in the refrigerator.
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka and tonic water.
3. Stir in pomegranate juice and simple syrup until well combined.
4. Add sage syrup and stir gently.
5. Garnish with pomegranate slices and sage leaves.
Cooking Time: None
Kiwi Mint Vodka Tonic
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Kiwi Mint Vodka Tonic recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 kiwi, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Lime wedges (optional)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the vodka and top with tonic water.
3. Slice the kiwi into thin rounds and add to the glass.
4. Muddle the mint leaves gently with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavor.
5. Stir the mixture briefly to combine.
6. Garnish with an additional lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Passionfruit Chili Vodka Tonic
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this refreshing twist on the classic vodka tonic.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz passionfruit-infused vodka (or regular vodka with a splash of passionfruit puree)
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
– 1-2 dashes of chili pepper syrup (depending on desired level of heat)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the passionfruit-infused vodka and tonic water.
3. Squeeze in a lime wedge and drop it into the glass.
4. Add 1-2 dashes of chili pepper syrup, depending on your desired level of heat.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Watermelon Basil Vodka Tonic
Elevate your vodka tonic game with the sweet and tangy flavors of watermelon and basil. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days or nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/4 cup cubed seedless watermelon (about 1/2 melon)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the watermelon cubes with a muddler or spoon to release their juice.
2. Add the vodka and basil leaves to the shaker. Muddle the basil slightly to release its oils.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Apple Cinnamon Vodka Tonic
Warm up with this cozy twist on the classic vodka tonic. The sweetness of apples and spices of cinnamon will transport you to crisp autumn days.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz (45ml) vodka
– 4 oz (120ml) tonic water
– 1/2 cup (60g) apple cider-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Slice of apple, for garnish
– Sprig of fresh cinnamon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and apple cider-infused simple syrup.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of apple and a sprig of fresh cinnamon.
Note: To make apple cider-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup (200g) sugar and 2 cups (475ml) apple cider in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to shake up your vodka tonic game with these 20 refreshing recipes that add a twist to the classic drink. From classic combinations like lime and grapefruit, to unique pairings like cucumber mint and strawberry balsamic, there’s something for every palate. Spice things up with spicy ginger or pineapple jalapeño, or go sweet with vanilla pear or apple cinnamon. With flavors ranging from herbal to fruity, you’re sure to find a new favorite vodka tonic recipe in this list.
