This Classic Vodka Gimlet Cocktail is a drink recipe from scratch that can be served shaken or on the rocks with fresh lime and simple syrup. With only 139 calories you will want to add this clean drink to your rotation!
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I’ve been sharing drinks and recipes online for over a decade, and I know the difference between a cocktail that’s just okay and one people make on repeat. This vodka gimlet is my go to when I want a cocktail that feels a little fancy but takes almost no effort. It’s bright and refreshing because no syrupy, overly sweet drinks over here.
What's in a Gimlet?
Why is it called a gimlet? Historically, a gimlet was referred to as a drink that required 2 parts gin and one part lime juice. A film in the '50s stated that the drink is half gin and half Rose's Lime juice and nothing else.
Somewhere along the way vodka fans, like myself, came in and wanted a piece of the action, and thus a similar drink came about.
What Type of Vodka to Use
I typically use Kettle One or Tito's vodka. This is a smooth drink, so you should use whatever you consider smooth vodka.
How to Make a Vodka Gimlet
- If you would like to serve the cocktail chilled, grab a cocktail shaker, vodka, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Pour the drink into a glass.
- Serve over ice if preferred.
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How to Make Simple Syrup
This recipe calls for simple syrup, which is one part sugar or sweetener and one part water. I like to use this zero carb, zero-calorie organic monkfruit simple syrup, it also keeps the drink skinny.
You make syrup by heating it in a saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat. The mixture will look cloudy, as you continue to stir it will turn clear signaling it has finished.
For one cocktail, you would only need ½ tablespoon of sweetener and ½ tablespoon of water. In general, it makes sense to make your own simple syrup when making large batches.
Gimlet Vodka FAQ
You may see gimlet recipes that call for this juice. It's a sweetened juice from concentrate that is often used in mixed drinks. It's made with artificial flavors. The ingredients are water, high fructose corn syrup, lime juice concentrate, sodium metabisulfite, natural flavors, and Blue 1.
Sodium metabisulfite is a food preservative used in potato preparation, cherry brining, and corn syrup manufacturing.
Blue 1 is a dye and coloring for processed foods.
In my opinion, you are better off using the juice from real, fresh limes. You can use the same amount of the sweetened lime juice if you wish.
The cocktail has 139 calories using zero carb, zero-calorie organic monkfruit simple syrup. If you use refined sugar it will have 188 calories.
A gimlet and a vodka gimlet are basically the same vibe, the only real difference is the liquor you pour. A classic gimlet uses gin with lime juice and a little simple syrup or lime cordial.
Using bottled lime juice: Fresh lime is everything here. Bottled juice tastes flat and slightly bitter. A gimlet only has a few ingredients, so fresh-squeezed lime is non-negotiable if you want it to pop.
Getting the ratio wrong: Too much lime and it’s sour face city. Too much syrup and it tastes like lime candy. You want that sweet-tart balance where neither one overpowers the other.
Over-sweetening: Some folks treat it like a margarita and go heavy on sugar. A gimlet should be crisp and bright, not sugary.
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Best Vodka Gimlet Recipe
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ½ ounce fresh-squeezed lime juice (1 tablespoon)
- ½ ounce simple syrup (1 tablespoon)
- ice
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a cocktail shaker and shake.
- Pour the drink into a cocktail glass.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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