Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe

This Apple Cider Moscow Mule is about to become your go-to! It’s a cozy … Read more
The post Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe appeared first on Sugar and Charm.

This Apple Cider Moscow Mule is about to become your go-to! It’s a cozy ... Read more

The post Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe appeared first on Sugar and Charm.

Pumpkin Martini

The Pumpkin Martini recipe is a stunning fall cocktail! It’s cozy and creamy, with pumpkin pie spice and a crunchy…

The Pumpkin Martini recipe is a stunning fall cocktail! It’s cozy and creamy, with pumpkin pie spice and a crunchy graham cracker rim.

Pumpkin Martini

Why we love this recipe

Is it fall drink season? Good, because we’ve got the perfect cocktail to add to your repertoire: the Pumpkin Martini! It’s creamy, it’s cozy pie spiced, and it’s made with real pumpkin for the best natural flavor.

Even better, coat the glass rim in crushed graham crackers and you get a hint of crunchy sweet in each sip! This is the best cocktail for impressing your friends for any fall occasion. You can even serve it up as a Pumpkin Pie Martini topped with whipped cream! Alex and I absolutely love this drink, especially for occasions like Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Ingredients in a Pumpkin Martini

The Pumpkin Martini is an autumnal spin on the flavored vodka martini using pumpkin flavors. There are many ways to achieve the flavors of the season, like pumpkin spice syrup or pumpkin liqueur. But for our recipe, we wanted to use the natural flavors: real pumpkin and pumpkin spice! It’s an ideal drink for Halloween or Thanksgiving, or any fall gathering. Here’s what you’ll need for this Pumpkin Martini recipe:

  • Vodka
  • Heavy cream (or coconut milk)
  • Pure maple syrup
  • Canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • Pumpkin pie spice (purchased or homemade)
  • Vanilla extract
  • Graham crackers, for the rim
Pumpkin Pie Martini recipe

Prepping the graham cracker rim

The best part of this Pumpkin Martini recipe? The graham cracker rim! Glass rims aren’t just for decoration: they add an important pop of flavor and texture to each sip. Here the graham cracker crumbs add just the right hint of sweetness and crunch. It takes a few minutes to do, but it’s absolutely worth it. Here’s how to do it:

  • Crush the graham crackers and add to a plate. You can simply use your fingers to crush them, or use the bottom of a jar or can.
  • Add a pool of maple syrup to another plate. This is the glue that will hold on the cracker crumbs.
  • Place the outer edge of the glass in the maple and rotate. Repeat with the cracker crumbs. Hold the position of the glass constant and just rotate the stem so you get an even coating. The maple syrup will glue the crumbs to the rim.

Tips for a Pumpkin Martini

Once you’ve got the glass rim prepared, making a Pumpkin Martini is simple. Shake up those ingredients and pour them in the prepared glass! Here are a few tips to review before you jump to the recipe:

  • Customize the sweetness to taste. We like this drink with ½ ounce maple syrup, which makes it taste beautifully balanced. With the the graham cracker crust, it’s sweet enough for us! But if you prefer sweet drinks, use either ¾ ounce (for a sweet drink) or 1 ounce (for a very sweet drink).
  • Don’t have pure maple syrup? Substitute honey or simple syrup if you like: or even better, try it with brown sugar syrup! It takes just 5 minutes and all you need is brown sugar.
Pumpkin spice martini recipe

Variation: Pumpkin Pie Martini

Want to make this Pumpkin Martini into a Pumpkin Pie Martini? Simply add whipped cream! Adding a dollop of whipped cream takes it to over-the-top dessert drink status. Here are a few homemade whipped cream recipes to try:

Make it dairy free or vegan

Want to make this Pumpkin Martini dairy free? All you have to do is substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream! It comes out with a slight coconut flavor, but it’s not overwhelming. The coconut fat stands in beautifully for the dairy fat. (Don’t use something like cream of coconut or it will come out too sweet!)

And that’s it! Let us know what you think of this Pumpkin Spice Martini in the comments below.

Pumpkin martini recipe
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Pumpkin pie martini

Pumpkin Martini


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink
Save Recipe

Description

The Pumpkin Martini recipe is a stunning fall cocktail! It’s cozy and creamy, with pumpkin pie spice and a crunchy graham cracker rim.


Ingredients

  • 2 ounces* vodka
  • ½ ounce heavy cream (or coconut milk, for vegan)
  • ½ ounce (to 1 ounce**) pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
  • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Graham crackers, for the rim

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rim: Crush a graham cracker with your fingers, and place it on a plate. On another plate, add a small pool of maple syrup. Run the rim of a martini glass in the maple syrup first, rotating the glass so the rim is evenly coated. Then roll the rim in the crushed graham crackers until evenly coated.
  2. Shake the drink: Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice and shake until cold. Strain the drink into the prepared martini glass.

Notes

*To convert to tablespoons, 1 ounce = 2 tablespoons.

**½ ounce maple syrup makes a balanced drink (and you’ll still get sweetness from the cracker rim). Use ¾ or 1 ounce maple syrup if you like a very sweet drink. If you don’t have pure maple syrup, try homemade Brown Sugar Syrup (it takes just 5 minutes).

  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Shaken
  • Cuisine: Cocktails
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Pomegranate Martini

This pomegranate martini recipe is tart, tangy and perfect for any occasion! The jewel-toned drink blends pomegranate juice with vodka,…

This pomegranate martini recipe is tart, tangy and perfect for any occasion! The jewel-toned drink blends pomegranate juice with vodka, lemon and orange liqueur.

Pomegranate Martini

Why we love this recipe

Looking for a fun cocktail as a signature drink for your next gathering? Try a Pomegranate Martini! Crisp, sweet tart, fruity, and light: it’s much closer to a Cosmo than the classic martini. But instead of cranberry juice like the Cosmopolitan, it’s made with pomegranate juice instead.

Serve it up in a martini glass and you’ve got a sophisticated cocktail that’s refreshing and easy to drink. Here’s how to make it!

What’s in a pomegranate martini?

This pomegranate martini can be considered a spin on the classic martini: except that it’s closer to a Cosmopolitan! Both the Cosmo and the martini have official definitions on the list of International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails. But this pomegranate martini spin is off-script! It’s got vodka like a vodka martini, but it’s really more of a sour cocktail than anything. Here are the ingredients in a pomegranate martini:

  • Vodka
  • Pomegranate juice (purchased or fresh squeezed)
  • Cointreau
  • Lemon juice
  • Simple syrup
Pomegranate Martini

How to make a pomegranate martini (basic steps)

It’s very simple to make a pomegranate martini! All you’ll need is a cocktail shaker and a martini glass. Here are the basic steps (or jump to the recipe):

  1. Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake for 15 seconds until cold.
  2. Strain into a glass.
  3. Garnish with a lemon peel: see below for what to do with it!

How to express citrus into a cocktail

For this pomegranate martini, you’ll do something that’s common in cocktails: expressing a citrus peel onto the drink. Why? This gives you a strong citrus perfume when you go to take a sip of the drink. Here’s what you’ll do:

  • Use a knife to remove a 1″ wide strip of the lemon peel.
  • Squeeze it over the drink first, which releases the oils and gives it a strong lemon perfume.
  • To amp it up a notch, run the lemon peel around the rim of the glass. This gives an even more citrus-y first sip.

You’ll notice this technique is used in lots of classic cocktails to add an extra sensory element, like the Classic Old Fashioned and Boulevardier Cocktail.

Cointreau

About Cointreau

Cointreau is an orange liqueur with a beautiful orange perfume flavor. Cointreau is a type of triple sec, which means “triple distilled.” But it’s technically a higher quality than a Triple Sec, with a more robust and balanced flavor. It’s most well known for being used in cocktails like the Classic Margarita. If you buy a bottle, you’ll have lots to make with it: all our Best Margarita Recipes and these Best Cointreau Drinks.

If you don’t have a bottle of Cointreau for this pomegranate martini, you can substitute any orange liqueur. You could try Triple Sec, or a higher end liqueur like Grand Marnier.

Pomegranate Martini

There are several drinks that are similar to the pomegranate martini, like other pink cocktails, vodka martinis, and sour cocktails! Here are it’s closest relatives:

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Pomegranate Martini

Pomegranate Martini


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink
Save Recipe

Description

This pomegranate martini recipe is tart, tangy and perfect for any occasion! The jewel-toned drink blends pomegranate juice with vodka, lemon and orange liqueur.


Ingredients

  • 1 ounce vodka
  • 1 ounce 100% pomegranate juice (purchased or fresh squeezed)
  • ½ ounce Cointreau
  • ½ ounce lemon juice
  • ½ ounce simple syrup or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Place the vodka, pomegranate juice, Cointreau, lemon juice, and syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake 15 seconds until cold. Strain the drink into a cocktail or martini glass.
  2. Use a knife to remove a 1″ wide strip of the lemon peel. Squeeze the lemon peel into the drink to release the oils. Gently run the peel around the edge of the glass, then place it in the glass and serve.

Notes

To convert to tablespoons, 1 ounce = 2 tablespoons

  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Shaken
  • Cuisine: Cocktails
  • Diet: Vegan

More classic cocktails

Here are a few more of our best classic cocktails you might also enjoy:

  • Tom Collins This popular gin cocktail that’s light, sweet tart, and bubbly!
  • Southside Cocktail An easy and refreshing gin drink made with mint, lemon and lime: think of it like a gin mojito. Or try the Southside Fizz, the bubbly version.
  • Classic Mojito Perfectly balanced with lime, rum and fresh mint! This iconic Cuban cocktail is refreshing and just sweet enough.
  • Paloma Cousin of the classic margarita, this easy Mexican cocktail recipe features tequila with grapefruit instead of lime! 

White Russian Recipe

short clear glass with white and brown drink in the glass.Learn how to make a White Russian recipe, which is a simple 3 ingredient creamy cocktail. The combination of coffee, cream, and vodka makes a great cocktail! This recipe makes one drink, and it takes less than five minutes to make. What is a White Russian Drink? The “Russian” part of the name is a…

short clear glass with white and brown drink in the glass.

Learn how to make a White Russian recipe, which is a simple 3 ingredient creamy cocktail. The combination of coffee, cream, and vodka makes a great cocktail! This recipe makes one drink, and it takes less than five minutes to make.

short clear glass with white and brown drink in the glass.

What is a White Russian Drink?

The “Russian” part of the name is a nod to the vodka in the drink, which is a classic Russian liquor. It actually came to be after someone invented the Black Russian drink around 1949, made with just coffee liqueur and vodka. Due to that drink’s popularity, someone thought to add some cream, and the White Russian cocktail was born.

It’s cold, it’s creamy, and it’s perfect for sipping on after dinner or for festive nights. Plus, it’s really easy to make – you don’t need a bunch of different liquors and mixers. Just three ingredients plus some ice is all you need.

ingredients in the White Russian laid out on a grey counter.

White Russian Ingredients

  • Vodka – use your favorite brand (for me the best vodka is Tito’s)
  • Kahlua – or other coffee liqueur that you like
  • Heavy cream – but you can substitute milk or half and half if you prefer or nondairy milk, like almond or soy milk.

Variations

  • Omit the cream and you have a Black Russian Cocktail.
  • Make a Baileys White Russian by swapping the cream with Irish Cream.
  • A Mudslide is basically a White Russian with Baileys Irish Cream added – and you can serve it in a martini glass or a frozen mudslide using a blender.
  • For the perfect holiday twist add some cinnamon syrup or cinnamon sticks.
  • An Off-White Russian uses chocolate milk instead of cream.
  • There are tons of variations using things like bourbon or whiskey, rum or tequila or horchata – have fun experimenting!

How to make a White Russian

  1. Add some ice cubes to an Old-fashioned glass.
  2. Pour the vodka and Kahlua over the ice.
  3. Add the cream and stir – if your cream is very thick you can water it down with milk.
short clear glass with white and brown drink in the glass.

Expert Tips

  • Always use good quality liquor, not the cheapest stuff. Midshelf brand is fine, but just make sure to use one you like but that comes in at least a glass bottle. Good liquor makes a difference!
  • This is the easiest drink to pour for a crowd because you’re just pouring into the glass no shaking needed!
  • Have Kahlua left over? Make an Espresso Martini!

FAQs

Are you supposed to mix a white Russian?

You can stir all three ingredients, so your drink is uniform in color. Or, mix the vodka and coffee liqueur and float the cream on top.  Or, you can swirl the cream into the drink by partially stirring it so you can see ribbons of cream in the glass.

short clear glass with white and brown drink in the glass.
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White Russian Drink Recipe

White Russians are made with just three ingredients – grab your coffee liqueur, vodka and cream. It’s so simple to make and is the perfect post-dinner cocktail.
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 servings
Calories 326kcal
Cost 20

Ingredients

  • Ice
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce Kahlúa
  • 1 ounce heavy cream

Instructions

  • Add a handful of ice to an Old Fashioned glass.
  • Add the vodka and the Kahlúa.
  • Stir in the cream.
  • Serve.

Video

Notes

Always use good quality liquor, not the cheapest stuff. Midshelf brand is fine, but just make sure to use one you like but that comes in at least a glass bottle. Good liquor makes a difference!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 326kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 14mg | Potassium: 22mg | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 417IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg

Other Favorite Drinks

Favorite Cocktail Recipes

Vegan Penne alla Vodka

Learn how to make a creamy, restaurant-worthy vegan penne alla vodka in your home kitchen! It’s made with simple ingredients and just 30 minutes. Serve as an easy weeknight meal or date-night main course!

The post Vegan Penne alla Vodka appeared first on Sweet Simple Vegan.

Learn how to make a creamy, restaurant-worthy vegan penne alla vodka in your home kitchen! It’s made with simple ingredients and just 30 minutes. Serve as an easy weeknight meal or date-night main course! 

horizontal photo of vegan penne alla vodka

Penne alla Vodka History

The exact origins of penne alla vodka are unclear, and will vary depending on who you ask. Two places that claim its origin are Italy and New York. But, regardless of its source, the traditional dish has roots in Italian cuisine and has become one of the most popular pasta dishes in the United States. 

As you may know, traditional penne alla vodka is typically made creamy with heavy cream and dairy parmesan cheese. We’ve put our vegan spin on the traditional version and we’re stoked to share the recipe with you. It’s a dead ringer for the classic and is a vegan pasta recipe you won’t want to miss out on! 

And if you’re craving Italian, make sure to check out our popular classics. From Vegan LasagnaVegan Baked ZitiVegan BologneseSpaghetti CarbonaraPesto PastaRavioliPasta PrimaveraFettuccine AlfredoVegan Cacio e Pepe, and more. We have it all! 

ingredients for dairy free penne alla vodka on blue board

Ingredients You’ll Need 

  • Raw cashews: Instead of using dairy-ladened heavy cream, we opted for an easy vegan swap – cashew cream! We will teach you how to make your own cashew cream from scratch using raw cashews. 
  • Vegetable broth: We like to use our Homemade Vegetable Broth, but any store-bought version works well. You can also use a vegan chicken broth if you have it. 
  • Crushed tomatoes: We prefer to use San Marzano tomatoes as they are sweeter, less acidic, and more flavorful than Roma tomatoes, but use what you have access to. 
  • Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and infuse additional flavor into the vodka sauce. We recommend olive oil or vegan butter. 
  • Aromatics: A simple yet essential aromatic blend of flavors to start this dish off right.
  • Red pepper flakes: Add a minimal yet balanced amount of heat. Feel free to add additional pepper flakes as desired. If you love spicy tomato pasta sauces, make sure to try our Penne all’Arrabbiata!
  • Vodka: We recommend a smooth, neutral, middle-of-the-road vodka. Save your more expensive vodkas for cocktails. 
  • Tomato Paste: Add rich, concentrated tomato flavor to the vodka sauce.
  • Basil: Used in the sauce and also for garnish for a pop of color and freshness. 
  • Dried Oregano: If you want to use fresh, opt for 3x the amount, or to taste.
  • Vegan Parmesan Cheese: Feel free to use our homemade Vegan Parmesan Cheese recipe or your favorite store-bought brand. We like Violife and Follow Your Heart.
  • Pasta: For a traditional-inspired vegan vodka pasta, opt for penne pasta. Rigatoni also works well, or swap in any pasta you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta works well here, if desired. 

​Optional Add-ins

This vegan penne alla vodka is the perfect base for your favorite vegan protein. You can also add in your favorite sautéed veggies. Here are a few of our favorite additions: 

​Protein Ideas

Veggies

  • Mushrooms
  • Zucchini 
  • Bell peppers
  • Spinach or kale
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli

Equipment Needed

dairy free penne alla vodka on blue board

How to Make Vegan Penne alla Vodka

  1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. 
  2. Make the creamy sauce base. ​Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pot from the heat and add the cashews. Soak for 20 minutes, or until softened, then drain and transfer to a high-speed blender along with 1/2 cup water or broth and half of the 28-ounce can of tomatoes. Blend on high until smooth. Set aside. 
  3. Sauté the aromatics. In a separate large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once warm, add the shallot and sauté, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and continue to cook until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, another 2 minutes. 
  4. Simmer the vegan vodka sauce. Next, add the vodka, remaining crushed tomatoes, blended cashew mixture, tomato paste, basil and oregano.  Bring the mixture to a low boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the vodka sauce has thickened and the alcohol has cooked off. Stir often to prevent burning. 
  5. Add vegan parmesan cheese. ​Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, mix in the vegan parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the pasta water, as needed, to make the sauce smooth and silky. 
  6. Serve. Serve the sauce over your favorite penne and top with fresh parsley, fresh basil, and/or extra vegan parmesan cheese, as desired. Enjoy! 
vertical photo of vegan penne alla vodka

Serving Suggestions 

We love enjoying this vegan penne alla vodka as a main course on a busy weeknight, but it’s also elevated enough to serve for a special occasion. Pair it with your favorite crusty bread, like Vegan Garlic Bread or Vegan Focaccia and a light side salad, like this Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

Recipe FAQs

What does the vodka do? Can penne alla vodka get you drunk?

Don’t worry; the alcohol cooks off, and you won’t be getting drunk from eating this pasta sauce. Vodka adds to the recipe’s aroma and acts as an emulsifier for the sauce, allowing the cream to meld with the tomato base.

Is this vegan pasta recipe gluten-free?

All of the ingredients in the vegan vodka sauce are naturally vegan without substitutions. If you’d like to make the pasta dish as a whole gluten-free, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and serve with gluten-free friendly side dishes. 

Can I make this creamy tomato sauce without nuts?

Cashews are a key ingredient for making this tomato sauce rich and creamy. You may be able to swap the raw cashews for raw sunflower seeds for a similar flavor, though we haven’t tested it. If you’d like to give it a try, we’d recommend soaking the sunflower seeds for 20 minutes, just as you would cashews. 

Storage Instructions 

​Leftover creamy vegan penne alla vodka will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When possible, we recommend storing the pasta sauce and pasta in separate containers. This will keep the pasta from absorbing the sauce and will keep your leftovers as rich and creamy as possible. 

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until just warmed through. 

vertical photo of vegan penne alla vodka

More Vegan Pasta Recipes You May Enjoy:

Make sure you tag us on Instagram @sweetsimplevegan and @consciouschris and hashtag #sweetsimplevegan if you make this recipe. We love to see your photos! 

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vertical photo of vegan penne alla vodka

Vegan Penne alla Vodka Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Jasmine @ Sweet Simple Vegan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 small servings

Description

Learn how to make a creamy, restaurant-worthy vegan penne alla vodka in your home kitchen! It’s made with simple ingredients and just 30 minutes. Serve as an easy weeknight meal or date-night main course! 


Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup raw cashews
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 28-ounce can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons oil or vegan butter
  • 1 shallot, finely minced (or 1/3 cup diced onions)
  • 10 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup vegan Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Black pepper, as desired

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 pound penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
  • Finely chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
  • Vegan parmesan cheese, to top 

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Once it is boiling, remove the pot from heat and add the cashews. Soak for 20 minutes or until softened and drain.
  3. Transfer the cashews to a high-speed blender along with 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth and half of the 28-ounce can of tomatoes* (see notes). Blend on high until smooth and set aside.
  4. In a separate large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once warmed, add the shallot and sauté for 2 minutes. Add in the garlic and red pepper flakes, and continue to cook until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2 more minutes.
  5. Next, add the vodka, the remaining crushed tomatoes, the blended cashew mixture, tomato paste, basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a low boil and lower it to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the alcohol cooks off, stirring often.
  6. When the pot of water is boiling, cook the penne pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
  7. Once the sauce has cooked down, mix in the vegan parmesan cheese—season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in pasta water as needed to make the sauce smooth and silky.
  8. Serve the sauce over your favorite penne and top with additional herbs and vegan parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • We only added 1/2 of the can of tomatoes to the blender as we wanted the sauce to have small chunks still. If you want the sauce to be completely smooth, blend all the tomatoes.
  • We prefer to use San Marzano tomatoes as they are sweeter, less acidic, and more flavorful than Roma tomatoes.
  • Choose a neutral, smooth, and middle-of-the-road vodka.
  • If you want to use fresh oregano, opt for 3x the amount, or to taste. 
  • For Vegan Parmesan Cheese, brands we like are Violife and Follow Your Heart.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Entree, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Italian

Nutrition facts label provided by Nutri Fox.

Disclaimer: The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional’s advice. This page may contain affiliate links, which means that we earn a commission if you purchase through those links, but your price remains the same. Thank you for supporting Sweet Simple Vegan!

The post Vegan Penne alla Vodka appeared first on Sweet Simple Vegan.

25 Best Vodka Cocktails

Here are all the best vodka cocktails to unleash the versatility of this spirit! Pick from all the classic vodka…

Here are all the best vodka cocktails to unleash the versatility of this spirit! Pick from all the classic vodka mixed drinks and unique cocktails for any occasion, from the Moscow mule to the Cosmo.

Vodka cocktails and mixed drinks

Got a bottle of vodka and need to use it up? There are so many great vodka cocktails to try, mixed drinks that are as varied as you could imagine! Because of its neutral flavor, vodka easily takes on the character of a drink.

Types of vodka cocktails

Pretty much anything goes with vodka! You’ve got fruity vodka cocktails like the Bay Breeze, classy drinks like the Gimlet and Cosmo, spicy ones like the Bloody Mary, and intriguing possibilities like endless types of martinis. These vodka mixed drinks should be in every enthusiasts repertoire. Want to start simple? Try these 2 ingredient vodka drinks or browse vodka cocktails for every season.

And now, the best vodka cocktails & mixed drinks to try!

Best vodka for drinks

The best vodka for vodka cocktails? unlike liquors with strong personalities like whiskey or rum, the ideal vodka for mixed drinks should be smooth and clean. It shouldn’t overpower the other ingredients in your cocktail, but rather act as a neutral base that allows the flavors to shine.

We recommend a mid-priced vodka, avoiding very inexpensive or high-end vodka. Brands like Tito’s, Ketel One, Absolut and Smirnoff are good options, as well as mid-range brands like Grey Goose vodka. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and flavor preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands to find your perfect match.

More types of cocktails

Outside of these vodka cocktails, there are so many more great cocktail recipes! Here are some of our best mixed drink collections:

Frequently asked questions

Isn’t vodka just for boring drinks like screwdrivers and vodka tonics?

Absolutely not! Vodka’s neutral flavor profile makes it a perfect base for countless creative and delicious cocktails. From refreshing summer drinks to sophisticated classics, vodka shines in a vast array of recipes.

What are some classic vodka cocktails I should try?

Here are a few iconic vodka cocktails to get you started:
Moscow Mule: A refreshing mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
Cosmopolitan: A sophisticated blend of vodka, cranberry juice, Cointreau, and lime juice.
White Russian: A creamy and decadent combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.
Bloody Mary: A savory and tangy brunch favorite with vodka, tomato juice, and spices.

What are some essential ingredients for making vodka cocktails?

While specific ingredients vary by recipe, some common staples include:
Citrus juices: Lemon, lime, and grapefruit juice add a refreshing tartness.
Sweeteners: Simple syrup, honey, or fruit liqueurs provide sweetness and balance the tartness.
Bitters: A few dashes of bitters like Angostura or orange bitters enhance complexity and depth.
Soda water and tonic water: These add fizz and lightness.
Fruits and herbs: Fresh or muddled fruits and herbs like mint, basil, or berries add vibrant flavors and visual appeal.

Are there any tips for making delicious vodka cocktails?

Here are some helpful tips:
Use high-quality vodka: While top-shelf isn’t always necessary, a decent vodka will make a noticeable difference.
Chill your ingredients: Cold ingredients ensure a refreshing final drink.
Measure accurately: Balanced flavors are key, so following recipe measurements is important.
Get creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations, like adding muddled fruits or herbs.

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Vodka gimlet

Vodka Gimlet (& More Easy Vodka Cocktails)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink

Description

Here are all the best vodka cocktails to unleash the versatility of this spirit! Pick from all the classic vodka mixed drinks and unique cocktails for any occasion, from the Moscow mule to the Cosmo.


Ingredients

  • 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) vodka
  • 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) lime juice
  • ¼ ounce (½ tablespoonsimple syrup or maple syrup
  • For the garnish: lime wedge or wheel

Instructions

  1. Add vodka, lime juice, and syrup to a cocktail shaker. Fill with a handful of ice and shake until cold.
  2. Strain the drink into a coupe or martini glass and top with a splash of soda water, if desired. Garnish with a lime wedge or wheel and serve.
  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Shaken
  • Cuisine: Cocktails
  • Diet: Vegan

Lemon Drop Martini

Here are the secrets to a refreshing and tangy lemon drop martini! Learn how to make this classic cocktail at…

Here are the secrets to a refreshing and tangy lemon drop martini! Learn how to make this classic cocktail at home, from rim-dipping techniques to the ideal vodka-to-lemon ratio.

Lemon drop martini in martini glass with lemon garnish and sugar rim.

Love a classic sour cocktail? Then you’ll adore a lemon drop martini! This zingy drink is perfectly balanced and refreshingly tart, served with a sugar rim and a lemon twist. It looks so festive that it’s great for celebrations of all kinds. Whatever the occasion: this drink delivers!

Why we love this recipe: When we first tried the lemon drop martini, we could see why it’s a classic. It’s got a cool, clean flavor and a sophisticated vibe. It’s now solidly a part of our cocktail recipe repertoire!

Ingredients in a lemon drop martini

A lemon drop martini is a sweet and sour version of a vodka martini. Its similarities with the classic martini are in name only! The lemon drop is a classic alcoholic drink that makes the list of International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails. That means it has an official definition of how to make it:

  • Citron vodka (or regular vodka): For our spin on the lemon drop martini, we use standard vodka to keep it simple. In our taste tests, citron vodka only adds a subtle citrus hint to the finish. But if you have citron vodka, by all means use it here!
  • Cointreau or triple sec: We prefer using Cointreau as the orange liqueur in this drink, but triple sec also works.
  • Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brings the zippy, tart flavor: steer clear of bottled juice here.
  • Simple syrup: Simple syrup balances the flavors: it’s a bar cart staple that’s easy to make at home.

Related drink: This drink is very close to a Vodka Sidecar, which uses similar ingredients!

How to make a lemon twist

How to make a lemon drop martini: step by step

If you’re ready to get drinking, here are the basic steps to the lemon drop martini:

  1. Step 1: Rim the glass with sugar. A classic lemon drop is served in a martini glass with sugar on the rim. This helps to balance out the tart flavor of the cocktail.
  2. Step 2: Shake the ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Place 1 ½ oz vodka, ½ oz Cointreau, ½ oz lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup into a cocktail shaker. Add 1 handful ice and shake until cold.
  3. Strain into a glass and add garnish. Strain the drink into the martini glass and add a lemon twist or lemon wheel.

How to make a lemon twist

🍋 The lemon twist makes a sophisticated lemon drop martini! For our method of making a lemon twist garnish using no special tools, go to How to Make a Lemon Twist.

Don’t want to try the twist? Slice a lemon wheel, then cut a notch in it and add it to the rim of the glass.

How to make a sugar rim

Using superfine sugar rim on the martini glass rim makes for a festive look, and it helps to balance out some of the tart flavor. Here are our tips to making the perfect rim:

  1. Spread the sugar on a plate in an even layer. Using superfine sugar is best, since it adheres best to the rim.
  2. Take a lemon wedge and cut a notch in the middle: then slide it around the rim of the glass. This moistens the rim without having to use your fingers!
  3. Tilt the glass into the sugar so that the sugar sticks to the outside edge.
Lemon drop martini with lemon garnish.

Cointreau vs triple sec

We like this lemon drop martini recipe using Cointreau, which has a orange perfume flavor that’s well balanced between bitter and sweet. You can also use Triple Sec, which has a more straightforward, intense flavor. If you’re not sure whether to spring for a bottle of Cointreau, there’s a long list of great Cointreau drinks that use it, like the margarita and the Cosmopolitan.

When to serve a lemon drop martini

The lemon drop martini cocktail is tart and tangy, with a festive vibe. It works well for so many occasions. It’s great as a New Year’s Eve drink, Christmas or holiday drink, bachelorette party drink, celebration drink, and more!

More martini recipes

There are lots of types of martinis, from dry to fruity. Once you’ve tried the lemon drop, here are a few more to mix up:

Frequently asked questions

What vodka is best for a lemon drop martini?

Citron vodka is classic, but we like using a high-quality, plain vodka here.

My rim keeps coming off! How can I get it to stick?

Use superfine sugar if you can, which adheres best. Moisten the rim of your martini glass with a lemon wedge or a very wet fingertip. Then, dip the rim into a shallow dish filled with the sugar.

How sweet or tart should my lemon drop martini be?

It’s a matter of personal preference! Start by following a recipe, then adjust the amount of simple syrup or lemon juice to your taste. For a more nuanced sweetness, consider using maple syrup as a sweetener.

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Lemon drop martini

Best Lemon Drop Martini


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink

Description

Here’s the best lemon drop martini you’ll have! It’s zesty and refreshing, sweet tart with a crunchy sugar rim.


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ ounces* citron vodka or vodka
  • ½ ounce Cointreau or triple sec
  • ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
  • ½ ounce simple syrup
  • Superfine sugar, for the rim (or substitute granulated)
  • For the garnish: Lemon twist or lemon wheel

Instructions

  1. Cut a notch in a lemon wedge, then run the lemon around the rim of a martini glass. Dip the edge of the rim into a plate of superfine sugar.
  2. Make the lemon twist garnish.
  3. Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, fill it with ice, and shake until cold.
  4. Strain the liquid into the glass with the sugared rim. Garnish with the lemon twist.

Notes

*To convert to tablespoons, 1 ounce = 2 tablespoons

**To achieve a yellow color for this drink, use maple syrup as the sweetener or use citron vodka. With simple syrup and standard vodka, the drink is clear in color. 

  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Shaken
  • Cuisine: Cocktails

Keywords: Lemon Drop Martini

More classic cocktails

Here are a few more of our best cocktail recipes you might enjoy:

  • Classic Margarita The only margarita recipe you need! Here’s how to make the very best margarita with 3 simple ingredients: lime, Cointreau and tequila—and no added sugar.
  • Classic Mojito It’s perfectly balanced with lime, rum and fresh mint! This iconic Cuban cocktail is refreshing and just sweet enough.
  • Salty Dog Here’s a refreshing citrus cocktail that pairs grapefruit juice, gin, and a salted rim. (The classic version has no salt and is called…a Greyhound!)
  • Tom Collins This tall highball drink is a gin sour, a sweet and sour classic cocktail made with gin. It’s refreshing, bubbly, and nostalgic.