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While we typically shy away from overly sweet concoctions, this elevated Pink Vodka Lemonade proves that sometimes a refreshing, sophisticated spin on a classic can surprise even the most discerning palates. We’ve crafted this recipe to balance the sweetness of Malibu and Sprite with fresh citrus and a generous pour of premium vodka, creating a cocktail that’s both approachable and refined.

Two pink vodka lemonade cocktails with orange slices, flowers, and mint garnish sit on a table with a vodka bottle and glass pitcher in the background.

What Is a Pink Vodka Lemonade Cocktail?

This contemporary twist on vodka lemonade incorporates cranberry juice and coconut rum for a sophisticated update to the summer classic. The cocktail first gained popularity in the craft cocktail revival of the early 2010s, when bartenders began experimenting with elevated versions of familiar favorites.

A pink vodka lemonade cocktail in a ridged glass is garnished with a lemon slice, mint sprig, and white flower.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

  • SWEET AND SOUR – The perfect balance of tart and sweet, with fresh lime juice cutting through the sweetness of the Malibu and sprite.
  • BATCH IT – A versatile cocktail that scales beautifully for gatherings while maintaining its crafted appeal.

What You Need to Make a Vodka Lemonade Cocktail

  • Vodka: Select a premium vodka that’s clean and crisp – we recommend avoiding budget options here.
  • Cranberry Juice: Pure cranberry juice, not cocktail mixture, provides the ideal tartness and color.
  • Lime Juice: Fresh-squeezed only – it makes all the difference.
  • Malibu Rum: The coconut rum adds unexpected depth and complexity.
  • Lemon-lime Soda: Adds effervescence and brightness.
    Garnishes: Fresh lemon slices and mint leaves for both aroma and presentation.

How to Make a Pink Vodka Lemonade by the Pitcher

  • Step 1: Begin with a properly chilled pitcher – this ensures your cocktail stays colder longer.
  • Step 2: Layer your spirits first – vodka and Malibu – this allows proper mixing of the alcohols.
  • Step 3: Add your juices and stir gently to combine.
  • Step 4: Just before serving, add the lemon-lime soda and ice to maintain maximum effervescence.
  • Step 5: Garnish individually with fresh lemon wheels and mint sprigs.
  • A hand pours lemon juice from a measuring cup into a "1 liter" glass carafe on a marble surface.
  • Someone pours cranberry juice from a small pitcher into a larger carafe of yellow liquid.
  • A malibu rum is poured from a small white pitcher into a glass carafe of pink liquid on a round marble surface.
  • Someone pours a lemon lime soda into a carafe filled with a pink drink and lemon slices on a marble surface.

Expert Recipe Tips

  • Tip 1: For an elevated experience, freeze cranberry juice into ice cubes to prevent dilution.
  • Tip 2: Consider using a coconut-forward vodka to amplify the tropical notes.
  • Tip 3: For large gatherings, prep everything except the soda and ice beforehand.
Two pink vodka lemonade cocktails with lemon and mint in ridged glasses sit on a marble surface, accompanied by a vodka bottle and liquid-filled carafe in the background.

How to Serve This Pink Vodka Lemonade Cocktail

Serve in Collins glasses filled with fresh ice. For maximum impact, garnish with both lemon wheels and mint sprigs. This cocktail shines at summer soirées or sophisticated pool parties where its pink hue adds to the ambiance.

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Pink Vodka Lemonade

Our Pink Vodka Lemonade transforms the familiar into the extraordinary with premium spirits and fresh citrus. This perfectly balanced cocktail delivers sophisticated refreshment while maintaining the approachability of a classic lemonade.
Print Recipe
Two pink vodka lemonade cocktails with lemon and mint in ridged glasses sit on a marble surface, accompanied by a vodka bottle and liquid-filled carafe in the background.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Total Time:5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup vodka
  • 2/3 cup cranberry juice
  • 1/3 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup malibu
  • 4 cups lemon lime soda sprite
  • Ice
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Mint for garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a pitcher or jug with ice.
  • Add the vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice and Malibu. Stir to combine.
  • Top with the lemon-lime soda.
  • Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint.
Servings: 1 pitcher

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

Yes, but you’re on the wrong site for that. While we believe in the perfect balance of our spiritual ingredients, you can create a virgin version using coconut water in place of Malibu and extra cranberry juice for the vodka. However, the complexity of flavors will differ.

How far in advance can I prepare this cocktail?

Mix the vodka, Malibu, and juices up to 24 hours ahead, but add the soda and ice just before serving to maintain the effervescence.

What’s the best vodka to use in this cocktail?

We recommend a premium vodka with a clean finish. Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Kettle One all work beautifully here.

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Award-winning cocktail maker, picture taker, content writer, editor, and all around imbiber behind the Libation Chronicles and a few other fun projects.

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