Homemade Cutwater Pink Lemonade Recipe

by Vee
Cutwater Pink Lemonade

I’m excited to share with you my version of Cutwater Pink Lemonade. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, need a vibrant drink to unwind after a long day, or want to treat yourself to a little homemade goodness, this recipe strikes just the right note of sweetness and citrus zing. Let’s dive in and bring a splash of pink lemonade magic to your kitchen.

What Is Cutwater Pink Lemonade?

It’s a ready-to-drink canned cocktail from Cutwater Spirits: a vodka-based Lemon Drop made with Cutwater Vodka plus triple sec, lemon, and natural flavors, meant to taste bright, sweet-tart, and citrusy.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz vodka (use a good-quality vodka for best results)
  • 3 oz fresh pink lemonade (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 oz sparkling water or club soda (for a little fizz)
  • 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice (for extra brightness)
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wheel or pink lemonade popsicle (optional garnish)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
  • For Homemade Pink Lemonade (if you want to make from scratch):
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6–8 lemons)
  • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice or cranberry juice (for pink color)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 cups water.

Instructions:

Make The Pink Lemonade (Optional):

  1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water.
  2. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely to make simple syrup.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. In a large pitcher, mix the fresh lemon juice, grapefruit or cranberry juice, remaining 3 cups of water, and the simple syrup.
  5. Stir well and refrigerate until chilled.

Mix The Cocktail:

  1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour 2 oz vodka over the ice.
  3. Add 3 oz of your prepared pink lemonade.
  4. Add 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice for extra zing.
  5. Stir in 1/2 oz simple syrup if you like it sweeter (optional).
  6. Top off with 1 oz sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly finish.
  7. Stir gently to combine.

Garnish And Serve:

  1. Garnish with a lemon wheel or a pink lemonade popsicle for a fun twist.
  2. Add fresh mint leaves if desired for added aroma and freshness.
  3. Enjoy immediately!

Tips For The Perfect Pink Lemonade Cocktail:

  • Use fresh citrus juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor significantly compared to bottled lemon juice.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste: Some pink lemonades are quite sweet while others are more tart—start with less simple syrup and add more if desired.
  • Keep it chilled: Serve over plenty of ice or pre-chill your lemonade mixture for the best refreshment.
  • Get creative with garnishes: A raspberry, strawberry slice, or edible flower can add a lovely touch visually and flavor-wise.
  • Make it a mocktail: Omit the vodka and increase the sparkling water for a non-alcoholic version just as tasty.

What To Serve Cutwater Pink Lemonade With

Casual Gatherings & Barbecues:

  • Grilled Meats and Seafood: Pair Cutwater Pink Lemonade with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, shrimp skewers, or even salmon. The citrus notes enhance the flavors of char and spice.
  • Burgers and Sliders: Classic beef, turkey, or plant-based patties all work well. Add toppings like pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce for freshness.
  • Hot Dogs and Sausages: Cutwater Pink Lemonade complements the salty, savory taste and balances the heavier flavors.
  • Corn on the Cob and Roasted Veggies: The sweetness of corn and caramelized vegetables highlights the tartness of the drink.

Brunch & Light Bites:

  • Avocado Toast and Breakfast Sandwiches: The creamy, rich avocado or eggs pair nicely with a zesty pink lemonade.
  • Quiche, Frittatas, and Egg Dishes: Try different fillings like spinach, feta, ham, or mushroom. The acidity and fruitiness cut through the richness.
  • Pastries, Muffins, and Scones: Particularly good with berry or citrus-infused baked goods.
  • Fruit Salads and Yogurt Parfaits: The citrus and berry notes echo those in the drink for a seamless pairing.

Light And Fresh Appetizers:

  • Fresh Summer Salads: Try spinach-strawberry salads with goat cheese, or arugula with citrus segments and vinaigrette.
  • Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: Include soft cheeses (goat, brie), mild hard cheeses (havarti, gouda), and fresh fruit (berries, grapes).
  • Shrimp Cocktail or Ceviche: The acidic, tangy drink matches well with seafood in citrus-based dressings.

Snacks & Dips:

  • Chips and Salsa or Guacamole: The lemony notes refresh your palate between bites.
  • Pretzels, Popcorn, and Mixed Nuts: A classic pairing for casual mingling.
  • Hummus and Crudités: Keeps things light and vibrant for daytime sipping.

Desserts:

  • Lemon Bars or Key Lime Pie: Amplifies citrus flavors in your dessert spread.
  • Berry Shortcakes or Tarts: Strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry desserts echo the drink’s fruitiness.
  • Sorbet or Ice Cream: A scoop of lemon, raspberry, or coconut sorbet is a frosty companion.
  • Pavlova with Fresh Fruit: The airy texture and tang of the fruit are in perfect harmony with the beverage.

Health Benefits

Lemon Juice:

  • Vitamin C: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, skin health, and iron absorption.
  • Hydration: The citric acid in lemon juice can help stimulate saliva production, promoting hydration and digestion.
  • Digestive Aid: Lemon juice may help alleviate indigestion and bloating by stimulating digestive juices.
  • Kidney Stone Prevention: The citric acid in lemons may help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and pH, making it less favorable for stone formation.

Grapefruit Or Cranberry Juice:

  • Antioxidants: Both grapefruit and cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Heart Health: The flavonoids in grapefruit may help improve blood lipid levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • Urinary Tract Health: Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins that may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infections.
  • Immunity Boost: The vitamin C content in grapefruit and cranberries supports a healthy immune system.

Vodka:

  • Stress Reduction: Moderate alcohol consumption may help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  • Heart Health: Some studies suggest that moderate vodka consumption increases HDL (good) cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease.
  • Digestive Aid: Vodka is a digestif, meaning it may help stimulate digestion after a meal.

Final Thoughts

Cutwater Pink Lemonade is more than just a cocktail, it’s a delightful embodiment of the carefree spirit of summer. This refreshing vodka-based drink, with its vibrant pink hue and sweet-tart flavor, has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts and casual sippers alike.

More Recipes:

Cutwater Pink Lemonade

Cutwater Pink Lemonade

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Serves: 4 Prep Time: Cooking Time:
Nutrition facts: 298 calories 20 grams fat
Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka (use a good-quality vodka for best results)
  • 3 oz fresh pink lemonade (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 oz sparkling water or club soda (for a little fizz)
  • 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice (for extra brightness)
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wheel or pink lemonade popsicle (optional garnish)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
  • For Homemade Pink Lemonade (if you want to make from scratch):
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6–8 lemons)
  • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice or cranberry juice (for pink color)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 cups water.

Instructions

Make The Pink Lemonade (Optional):

  1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water.
  2. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely to make simple syrup.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. In a large pitcher, mix the fresh lemon juice, grapefruit or cranberry juice, remaining 3 cups of water, and the simple syrup.
  5. Stir well and refrigerate until chilled.

Mix The Cocktail:

  1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour 2 oz vodka over the ice.
  3. Add 3 oz of your prepared pink lemonade.
  4. Add 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice for extra zing.
  5. Stir in 1/2 oz simple syrup if you like it sweeter (optional).
  6. Top off with 1 oz sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly finish.
  7. Stir gently to combine.

Garnish And Serve:

  1. Garnish with a lemon wheel or a pink lemonade popsicle for a fun twist.
  2. Add fresh mint leaves if desired for added aroma and freshness.
  3. Enjoy immediately!

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