Watermelon Vodka Cocktail

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

Sweet and Fresh. This cocktail has an extremely fresh flavor profile – watermelon, fresh mint and a citrus kick.

Perfect for Entertaining. Impress your party guests with this vibrant and delightful drink that is easily made in large batches. It’s a wonderful option for summer BBQs or hot afternoons outside.

Readily Available Summer Ingredients. No Amazon orders or hunting for specialty ingredients with this recipe – everything you need is in ample supply at your closest grocery store.

Versatile Mixer. The watermelon-mint-lime base works perfectly with a variety of spirits, so you can swap rum or tequila in for the vodka based on what you already have on hand.

Watermelon Vodka Cocktail Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this cocktail. See the recipe card down below for exact measurements.

• Fresh watermelon juice – you can use bottled watermelon juice but fresh has a lighter flavor profile and packs more refreshment into your glass
• Vodka – opt for a the best vodka in your price range, at least mid-tier to reduce added ingredients and ensure a crisp, clean flavor profile (no need for top shelf, though)
• Lime juice – fresh is best, if using bottled opt for real lime juice without additives
• Mint leaves – fresh only! Do not use dried mint or mint extract – skip this ingredient if you can’t find fresh mint
• Lemon-Lime Soda – we use Diet Sprite, but full-sugar or 7-Up works as well

Optional Garnishes: Additional fresh mint, lime wedges or watermelon slices.

Substituions or Variations

The recipe as developed is perfectly balanced for sweetness and refreshment, however, if you’d like to make some swaps here’s what I recommend:

• Bottle watermelon juice can be used in place of fresh, however make sure you opt for one without added sugars
• Watermelon Margarita – use tequila and consider skipping the mint
• Watermelon Mojito – use light rum in place of the vodka
• Use sparkling water or Italian lemon soda in place of the Sprite
• Watermelon Vodka Slushie – use frozen watermelon cubes and blend all ingredients in a blender for a frozen treat

HOW TO MAKE WATERMELON VODKA COCKTAIL

1. Make watermelon juice: Add watermelon chunks to a blender, and blend on high for 1-3 minutes. The texture has to be extremely smooth.
2. Prepare the mint: Clap the mint together in your hands to release the scent (you’ll know it’s worked when your hands smell minty!). And add the leaves to the glass along with the ice cubes.
3. Shake it up: Add watermelon juice and vodka to a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 30 seconds, then strain into your cocktail glass.
4. Finish and garnish: Top with lemon-lime soda and garnish with a watermelon slice, a lime wheel and mint sprigs.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Picking a ripe watermelon is the most important aspect to this recipe’s flavor. To pick a ripe watermelon, look for a creamy yellow field spot on the underside where it rested on the ground – a white or green spot signals underripeness. Choose one that’s heavy for its size, symmetrical without lumps or bruises and has dull (not shiny) dark green skin with prominent webbing or sugar spots indicating sweetness. Tap it for a deep, hollow thud like a drum, check for a dry brown stem and ensure slight give under firm pressure without denting easily.
• Using a good-quality vodka will ensure a crisp, smooth drinking experience. No need for top-shelf, mid-range is best here.
• The soda should be added just before serving as it’s main purpose is to add a bit of fizz while sweetening the drink slightly.

Watermelon Vodka Cocktail RECIPE FAQ’S

Easy Watermelon Vodka Cocktail Recipe (Printable Recipe Card)

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