Pink vodka lemonade is the perfect summer cocktail! Not only is it perfectly tart, but it's also perfectly sweet, and made with simple syrup infused with fresh thyme.
Combine water, sugar, and fresh thyme sprigs in a medium pot and heat on the stovetop over medium heat. Once the mixture starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Remove off of the heat, discard the thyme, and place the simple syrup in a container in the refrigerator to cool.
In a large pitcher, combine fresh lemon juice, cranberry juice, vodka, and cooled simple syrup. Stir to combine.
Add in club soda and stir gently to combine.
Serve over ice with a lemon wheel and fresh thyme sprig for garnish, if desired.
Notes
Don't let the simple syrup boil to hard or too long or the sugar syrup will get too thick and have a bitter taste.
Add the club soda last so everything is well combined before adding the fizzy liquid.
When adding the club soda, be careful not to pour too quickly and stir too vigorously so it doesn't overflow over the top.
Substitutions and Variations
Lemon Juice - Fresh lemon juice is preferred, but store bought will also work.
Simple Syrup - Fresh thyme can be omitted for plain simple syrup.
Club Soda - Water can be used for less fizz or sparkling wine or champagne could be used for an extra bubbly treat!
Non-alcoholic - Replace the vodka with more club soda.
Punch - Double the recipe and serve it in a punch bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
This pink vodka lemonade can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time without the club soda. When it's time to serve, stir in the club soda and serve over ice!Leftover pink vodka lemonade will keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, however, it will lose it's fizz over time.