When life gives you lemons, add a little lavender and vodka.
This simple cocktail takes hard lemonade from backyard crusher to patio-worthy cocktail with just a few extra ingredients. Bright citrus, subtle floral notes, and a clean vodka backbone make it the perfect drink for warm afternoons, BBQs, lake days, and everything in between.
The trick? Keep the lavender light. You want it to complement the lemonade, not steal the show.
Lavender Hard Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 can (12 oz) hard lemonade
- 4 oz vodka
- 1 oz lavender simple syrup
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice
Garnish
- Lemon wheel
- Fresh lavender sprig (optional)
How to Make Lavender Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
Directions
- Combine water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and add lavender buds.
- Let steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and cool before using.
Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Directions
- Fill a cocktail shaker or pitcher with ice.
- Add vodka, lavender simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake or stir until chilled.
- Pour into two ice-filled glasses.
- Top evenly with the can of hard lemonade.
- Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a lemon wheel and fresh lavender sprig.
Pro Tip
For the best balance, start with 1 ounce of lavender simple syrup and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way, and the goal is a subtle floral note that complements the lemonade without overpowering it.
Perfect Pairings
This cocktail shines alongside:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Fresh summer salads
- Charcuterie boards
- Backyard burgers
- Sunset sessions with friends
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. No complicated bartending required.