28 Best Vodka Cocktails Because It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere

updated Dec 8, 2023

Page URL

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

A photo of a bright red cosmopolitan cocktail with a lemon wedge on the side of the cocktail glass. — Credit: Maria Do
Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Just like whiskey, rum, and gin, you’ll find a bottle of vodka in just about everyone’s liquor cabinet. It’s a staple spirit that’s incredibly versatile in cocktails, whether you’re simply enjoying it with tonic water or shaking it into some sort of fruity concoction.

If you have a bottle waiting to be turned into happy hour drinks, look no further. We’ve gathered all our best vodka cocktail recipes and dropped them all in one place. Whether it’s a martini, Moscow mule, or something else entirely you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it here.

In This Article

Classic and Newfangled Vodka Cocktails
Vodka Pitcher Cocktails

Classic and Newfangled Vodka Cocktails

There are so many drinks that just wouldn’t exist without vodka. The martini, Moscow mule, and bloody Mary are just a few. Although don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new, too.

1 / 20

The Best Classic Martini

Regardless of it you prefer it with vodka or gin, it doesn't get any more timeless than a martini.

2 / 20

The Best Moscow Mules

Here's an easy step-by-step guide to making a Moscow Mule cocktail, plus variations.

3 / 20

A splash of basil simple syrup makes this refreshing cocktail stand out.

4 / 20

This is how Canada does a Bloody Mary, featuring the briny magic of Clamato juice.

5 / 20

This sweet and savory cocktail is mixed up in the blender and the mixture that gets strained out makes for an awesome salsa you can serve with the drink.

6 / 20

Pomegranate Martini

Turn sweet-tart pomegranate juice into a festive cocktail that's a cousin to a regular martini.

7 / 20

Blackberry and Cucumber Mule

Fizzy ginger beer gives this refreshing cocktail its fiery bite.

8 / 20

This classic cocktail made with grapefruit juice and vodka is fresh and vibrants.

9 / 20

Sparkling Peach Sunrise

A sparkling brunch cocktail made with peach shrub, grapefruit juice, vodka, and prosecco.

10 / 20

Sauerkraut Martini

It might sound weird, but trust us.

11 / 20

Easy Lemon Drop Martini

This classic cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the warm, sunny months of spring and summer.

12 / 20

Blueberry Lavender Vodka Spritzer

When blueberries are in season, you can do know better than this spritzer.

13 / 20

The only way to make this favorite cocktail better is to turn it into a slushy.

14 / 20

This rich and creamy cocktail is made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream.

15 / 20

Rhubarb Basil Cocktail

If you don't have fresh basil on hand, mint would be equally great here.

16 / 20

Also known as “appletinis”, apple martinis are quite easy to shake up at home and only require a handful of ingredients.

17 / 20

Tomato Water Bloody Mary

This lighter, fresher version of a bloody Mary could be your new favorite.

18 / 20

Kiwi Vodka Tonic

Vodka tonics get a fruit upgrade with the help of kiwi.

19 / 20

Cosmopolitan Cocktail

A simple cosmopolitan is sweet and tangy, and deserving of a spot on the roster of classic cocktails.

20 / 20

Espresso Martini

Espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup make up this delightful boozy cocktail. Shaken not stirred, please.

Vodka Pitcher Cocktails

The only thing better than a cocktail for one is a pitcher cocktail to serve your family or friends. That means less refilling of glasses, which is always a win.

1 / 8

Spicy Pineapple Vodka Punch

Pineapple juice and jalapeño are the stars of this 3-ingredient vodka cocktail.

2 / 8

While you can definitely make individual bloody Marys, a pitcher always goes quickly at the brunch table.

3 / 8

Spiced Pear & Ginger Pitcher Cocktail Go to Recipe

4 / 8

Sparkling Spiked Peach Lemonade

Feel free to try using a mix of stone fruit here, like nectarines and plums, in addition to the peaches.

5 / 8

Red Wine, Blackberry & Ginger Pitcher Cocktail

This twist on sangria is both fruit and spicy thanks to lots of fresh ginger.

6 / 8

Sparkling Rosemary Cider

All you need for this easy, 3-ingredient pitcher cocktail is vodka, sparkling apple cider, and fresh rosemary.

7 / 8

Bomb Pop Cocktail Pitcher

This colorful pitcher is so fun to look at, you might not even want to pour it.

8 / 8

White Wine, Clementine & Vanilla Pitcher Cocktail

Vanilla lends just a touch of floral, sweet notes to this pretty pitcher cocktail.

Filed in: