Vodka Gimlet Recipe | Classic and Easy
This vodka gimlet recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic gimlet made with vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. If you’re looking for a quick and easy cocktail that everyone can enjoy, this is the one!
I have made my fair share of vodka gimlets, but I never got into drinking them. That was mainly because the only ones I ever had were made with bottled lime juice. For some reason, bottled lime juice is not my friend. I’ve always found it too acidic.
In my early days as a bartender, I always stayed true to the recipes, never deviating from how they were written. The reason I did this for as long as I did was because management at the Mexican restaurant where I worked was very particular about the brand’s margaritas. And rightfully so.
But I haven’t worked at that restaurant in over 25 years, so I’ve thrown ‘by the book’ mixology out the window. I just hope I didn’t hit anyone walking by.
What makes this gimlet recipe better than one made with bottled lime juice?
When sweet and sour is made with freshly squeezed lime juice and simple syrup, it just tastes better than the bottled version like Rose’s lime juice. Maybe it’s the lack of preservatives. In any case, once you substitute bottled lime juice with freshly squeezed lime juice and simple syrup, you will never go back. Believe me.
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Helpful tips
- Place the glasses you are going to use in the freezer at least 10 minutes before you make the gimlet as it makes the drink stay colder longer. It’s fun to experience this drink from a chilled cocktail glass.
- Keep your vodka in the freezer too, for the reason stated above. Don’t worry, it won’t freeze.
- Use the best vodka you can afford because as with a martini, the gimlet is mostly vodka and you will be able to taste the difference.
- Always use fresh lime juice as the bottled kind has preservatives and is very acidic.
- Try a sour to sweet ration of 2:1. If that’s not sweet enough for you, add enough simple syrup to make it a 1:1 ratio.
How to mix a vodka gimlet
Pre step
Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Get a measuring glass and glassware.
As you measure each ingredient below, pour it into the shaker.
Step one
Get the ingredients – vodka, limes and simple syrup. (A)
Step two
Measure 6 ounces of vodka. (B)
Step three
Juice two limes, which usually yields 2 ounces. (C)
Step four
Measure 1 ounce simple syrup. (D)
Step five
Cut four thin lime wheels for garnish and set them aside. Take your martini glass out of the freezer – I also feature a double old fashioned glass in this post.
Put some ice in the old fashioned glass.
Place the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Pour, divide, and strain the contents of the shaker between the glasses.
Add your garnish. Since the lime wheels are thin, they will mostly float, which makes the drink fun and pretty!
Vertical view of the vodka gimlet recipe.
See what I mean about the pretty limes? Now the aerial view.
I hope you enjoyed this vodka gimlet recipe!
Please feel free to leave me a comment do you prefer a vodka or gin gimlet?
Other popular vodka recipes
And as always, may all your dishes/drinks be delish!
If you’ve tried this or any other recipe on the blog, I’d love the hear what you thought about it in the comments below. I love hearing from you! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST to see more of my delicious food and delightful cocktails!
Vodka Gimlet recipe
Ingredients
- 6 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 ounce simple syrup
Garnish
- 4 lime wheels thinly sliced
Instructions
- Fill cocktail shaker halfway with ice and get your glassware. I use a classic martini glass (with no ice) and a double old fashioned (with ice).
- Add vodka, lime juice and simple syrup.6 ounces vodka, 2 ounces lime juice, 1 ounce simple syrup
- Cap cocktail shaker and shake for 20 seconds. If you are serving one with ice, add it now. Divide and strain the liquid into glasses.
- Float lime wheels.4 lime wheels
- Sip
- Smile
- Enjoy
Notes
-
- Place the glasses you are going to use in the freezer at least 10 minutes before you make the gimlet as it makes the drink stay colder longer. It’s fun to experience this drink from a chilled cocktail glass.
- Keep your vodka in the freezer too, for the reason stated above. Don’t worry, it won’t freeze.
- Use the best vodka you can afford because as with a martini, the gimlet is mostly vodka and you will be able to taste the difference.
- Always use fresh lime juice as the bottled kind has preservatives and is very acidic.
- Try a sour to sweet ration of 2:1. If that’s not sweet enough for you, add enough simple syrup to make it a 1:1 ratio.
Nutrition
This vodka gimlet cocktail recipe was first published in October of 2016.
From lighting up stages with her BA in theater to crafting delightful dishes and cocktails, Elaine Benoit's journey is a testament to passion's transformative power. As the CEO of Dishes Delish, she offers a blend of healthy, comforting recipes and exquisitely crafted cocktails. Beyond the kitchen, Elaine voiced her culinary adventures on her podcast, "Dishing," and co-owns Food Blogger Help, extending her expertise to guide budding food bloggers to success. Whether it's for a heartwarming dish or insights into food blogging, Elaine's diverse experiences make her a beacon in the culinary digital landscape.
This reminds me of some friends who drank these a lot.
Thanks Christopher 🙂
I’ve never had a vodka gimlet but this recipe looks like the perfect one to try!
Thanks Krissy! It is such a classic and often overlooked!
Love how easy this is to make. The perfect cocktail!
Indeed it is, Lisa! 😉
What a pretty cocktail! I can’t wait to try it!
Thanks Allison!
That looks SO good! and now I need to go out for more limes…. mmmm! Perfect for this weekend with friends. 🙂
Thanks Catherine! I hope you enjoy them. They are simple and classic!
This sounds delish. And super easy to make. The kind of drink my hubby would love. Just pinned it. Thanks
Thanks so much, Chichi! It’s one of my favorites.
I love how gimlets are easy to make, this one looks so refreshing and delicious, the one I need today, cheers!
Cheers Patty! It’s Friday!! All bets are off!
Very good
Thank you Linda! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
I just found this recipe, tried it and it taste Soo good! Thank you!! I was in a hurry so I didn’t chill my glasses but I did chill the vodka. Perfect!!
I’m so glad to hear that Joyceann! Thank you for taking the time to tell me!
This recipe takes me back to 1988. Seriously, my friend only drank Vodka Gimlets and she insisted that I had to try them and I loved them. I hadn’t had one in 30+ years but this recipe brings back those good memories of an old friendship!
That is so awesome Marianne! Family friends drink the gimlet and I came to love them. It’s such a simple and delicious drink. I love that it brought back memories! And thanks for letting me know.