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This Pink Lemonade Cocktail brings summer right into your glass with a balance of citrus tang and refreshing sweetness. On hot afternoons this has become my go to crowd pleaser for laid back get togethers with friends under the sun. It takes almost no time to mix up and has just the right mix of nostalgia and grown up twist.
I still remember the first time I shook up a batch with friends by the pool everyone loved picking out their perfect shade of pink. Now we make it for every summer BBQ.
Ingredients
- Vodka: adds the boozy kick pick a middle shelf brand for smoothness
- Malibu: brings in beachy coconut flavor always adds a vacation vibe
- Cranberry juice: makes the cocktail pink choose one hundred percent juice for a vibrant color
- Lime: delivers fresh citrus tang squeeze your own for the brightest taste
- Sprite: offers bubbly sweetness use any lemon lime soda you love
- Ice: chills the drink perfectly use plenty to keep every sip cool
- Sprig of thyme: gives a herbal fragrance pick sprigs with fresh green leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Split the Base:
- Divide the vodka Malibu cranberry juice and lime juice evenly between two tall glasses to make sure each person gets the full flavor experience
- Add Ice:
- Fill each glass with enough ice to reach nearly to the top this chills the drink beautifully and helps it stay cold
- Top With Sprite:
- Pour the sprite over the other ingredients letting the bubbles lift and mix the flavors together
- Stir To Combine:
- Use a long spoon to stir gently from the bottom up ensuring everything is well blended without losing too much fizz
- Garnish With Thyme:
- Lay a fresh sprig of thyme on top for aroma and a burst of color just before serving
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The Malibu is what makes this extra special to me I tried other cocktails but nothing says summer like that faint coconut note I remember the first time we made flower ice cubes for these cocktails and my friends were enchanted
Storage Tips
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh but you can premix the vodka Malibu cranberry and lime in a pitcher without the sprite or ice. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to twelve hours. Add sprite and ice right when serving so your drink stays bubbly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Malibu you can use coconut rum or skip for a classic pink lemonade twist. Lemonade works great in place of sprite especially if you love extra citrus flavor. For a different herbal note mint or basil makes a lovely garnish instead of thyme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in tall glasses with flower ice cubes for an eye catching presentation. Pair alongside grilled skewers or a light summer salad. If you want to go all out rim the glasses with sugar or pink sprinkles for party vibes.
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Cultural Note
Pink lemonade has a long standing spot at American fairs and backyard gatherings. Swapping in vodka and coconut rum upgrades it for the adult crowd yet still keeps that playful summer spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I dial back the sweetness?
Swap out the sprite for club soda or sparkling water if you want it not so sweet and more crisp.
- → Is there a good swap for Malibu?
Absolutely, try coconut liqueur or grab a fruity vodka for that same tropical kick.
- → Which cranberry juice should I grab?
Pick unsweetened cranberry for more tartness or go with cranberry cocktail for a sweeter taste.
- → How can I make it stand out at a party?
Go for punchy cranberry juice and throw on some thyme or fancy flower ice cubes to make it pop.
- → Is it okay to prep this pink lemonade ahead of time?
Yep, mix up everything but save the sprite and ice for last. Add them right before pouring so it stays bubbly.