For this gimlet cocktail, we swap gin for vodka and make a vodka gimlet instead! Use store-bought lime cordial or make your own. It’s super simple and makes the best cocktails!
The classic gimlet is traditionally made with gin and Rose’s sweetened lime juice. Since we usually have vodka on hand, we make vodka gimlets instead. They are fresh and delicious!
For the best gimlet, try my homemade lime cordial (it’s easy!). Compared to store-bought, it tastes more fresh, zesty, and bright. I’ve shared how to make it in the gimlet recipe below! For more vodka cocktails, see our lemon drop martini or this cosmopolitan cocktail.
Key Ingredients
- Vodka: I love using a higher-quality vodka like Stoli, Ketel One, or Grey Goose. There’s enough vodka in this cocktail that you’ll taste it, so use what you love. For a classic gimlet, use gin.
- Lime Cordial: You can buy it (Rose’s is a good option), but I love making my own. To make it, you simmer sugar with water and lime zest. Then, when the sugar dissolves (after a few minutes), you can stir in fresh lime juice. It’s sweeter than lime juice but more tart than plain simple syrup.
Perfect Vodka Gimlet
- PREP
- TOTAL
A gimlet is a classic cocktail made of gin and lime cordial. In this version, we swap the gin for vodka and make a vodka gimlet instead! Use store-bought lime cordial or make your own. Our homemade lime cordial is below and is super simple!
These gimlets are fresh, zesty, and bright. They are a little sweet, but not overly so. If you prefer them less sweet, add an extra squeeze of lime juice to each cocktail or bump up the vodka by a 1/2 ounce to 1 full ounce to balance the syrup.
You Will Need
For Gimlets2 ounces vodka
2 ½ ounces lime cordial, try homemade lime cordial
Lime slice for garnish
For Homemade Lime Cordial1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (118ml) water
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 cup (118ml) fresh lime juice, from 3 to 4 limes
Directions
- Homemade Cordial (Optional)
1Combine 1 teaspoon of lime zest, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. While whisking, bring to a low simmer and cook until the sugar has completely dissolved into the water, about 5 minutes.
2Set the pan aside to cool completely. Strain the lime syrup and mix it with the fresh lime juice. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- How to Make a Gimlet
1Add the vodka and lime cordial to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well, then strain into a glass. Garnish with a lime slice.
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- Gin gimlet: Substitute vodka with gin.
- Lime cordial: When I don’t have homemade on hand, I use Rose’s Sweetened Lime Juice. You can also use 1 ounce of lime juice mixed with 1/2 ounce simple syrup.
- The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.
I had a few ounces of habanero simple syrup (so good with bourbon, lemon, mint) and lime juice (juiced and froze). Simmered those together and cooled the mixture, then added all ingredients to a shaker of ice, garnished with lemon balm from the garden. Perfect! (We’re moving and have to use everything liquid. Inspiration abounds ?)
I made this drink with lemon and it was fabulous. So happy that i found this recipe. thank you. 🙂
Glad I found this post. Had a half-dozen limes on hand, so I followed your instructions and am enjoying a marvelous vodka gimlet. Thank you! Next time make a batch of ginger beer, I’m using this in my Moscow Mule.