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Vodka Collins

A refreshing citrus-forward cocktail combining vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, served over ice with a fizzy finish.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 ounce simple syrup
  • 4 ounces soda water or club soda
  • Ice cubes for shaking and serving
  • Lemon wheel or twist for garnish
  • Optional: cherry for additional garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mason jar with tight-fitting lid
  • Jigger or measuring spoon for accurate portions
  • Barspoon or long mixing spoon
  • Strainer (if using a cocktail shaker)
  • Highball or tall Collins glass
  • Citrus juicer or hand reamer
  • Cutting board and knife for garnish
  • Ice maker or ice tray

Method
 

  1. Gather and measure your ingredients: vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
  2. Chill your Collins glass in the freezer for at least two minutes.
  3. Fill your cocktail shaker or mason jar with a handful of ice cubes.
  4. Pour 2 ounces of vodka into the shaker with ice.
  5. Add 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker.
  6. Pour in 0.5 ounce of simple syrup.
  7. Shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds until the outside feels very cold.
  8. Remove the chilled glass from the freezer and fill it halfway with fresh ice cubes.
  9. Strain the shaken cocktail into the ice-filled glass.
  10. Top with 4 ounces of chilled soda water, pouring slowly to preserve carbonation, and stir gently.
  11. Garnish with a lemon wheel or twist and an optional cherry, then serve immediately.

Notes

Make your simple syrup ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for faster cocktail prep.