If you’re looking for a refreshing and fruity gin-based drink, then you’ll love my gin and pink lemonade cocktail. I love it because it has just 3 ingredients and takes minutes to put together so you can enjoy a stress-free sip anytime you want!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Take herbal, smooth gin and combine it with sweet yet tart pink lemonade for a delightful fruity sip! Did you know “pink lemonade” is really just referring to the coloring and isn’t a flavor in and of itself?
That means you can enjoy any kind of pink lemonade you like – I usually use strawberry or raspberry. However, other unique flavors like pink grapefruit or rhubarb are options as well!
Katie’s tip
If you love the idea of gin and raspberry, then you should also check out my Gin and Jam cocktail recipe that uses raspberry jam!
This pink lemonade gin cocktail is perfect for spring and summer because of the fruity tones. However, you can also serve it for Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, since it’s sweet, pink, bubbly, and delicious!
Quick + Easy Recipes
straight to your inbox
Gin and Pink Lemonade Cocktail Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 3 ounces prepared pink lemonade (I have strawberry)
- 2 ounces pink lemonade sparkling water (unsweetened)
- Ice cubes
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Any gin is fine for this recipe, though London dry or citrus-infused varieties complement the pink lemonade well. If you happen to have it, you can use a pink gin like Beefeater strawberry pink gin, Gordon, Gibson’s, or similar for extra color and/or flavor
- You can use any type of prepared pink lemonade such as strawberry, raspberry, rose, powdered mix (prepared per package directions), pink cranberry, or even sweet “juice” drinks like Snapple or Brisk. You can also add a splash of grenadine to regular lemonade in a pinch
- I like Polar pink lemonade sparkling water, but you can use any brand. If you don’t have pink lemonade flavor available, substitute lemon, raspberry, strawberry, or you can also use tonic water, club soda, or prosecco. Make sure to get an unsweetened variety (since the lemonade has plenty of sweetness)
- Garnishes are entirely optional, but can include a fresh strawberry or raspberries, slice of lemon, and/or a sprig of mint
Step By Step Instructions
- To a lowball glass, add the gin and pink lemonade of choice and stir to combine
- Fill the glass with ice
- Top with the sparkling water (you may need to adjust the amount based on glass size, or your personal preferences on drink strength)
- Garnish if desired, and enjoy
Pairing Suggestions
Light Appetizers
- Goat cheese crostini – Creamy tang balances the sweet-tart lemonade while complementing gin’s botanicals
- Bruschetta – Fresh tomatoes and basil echo the bright, summery vibe of the drink
- Shrimp cocktail – Citrus and gin are a natural match with seafood!
- Prosciutto-wrapped melon – Salty-sweet flavors pair beautifully with pink lemonade’s fruitiness
- Deviled eggs – Rich and creamy, they contrast the drink’s crisp acidity
- Fruit Skewers – – Fresh, sweet, and complementary to the cocktail’s fruity notes
Seasonal Dishes
- Strawberry spinach salad – Berry notes mirror the pink lemonade while greens keep it balanced
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette – Peppery greens complement gin’s herbal notes
- Grilled chicken with herbs – Simple, herb-forward flavors won’t overpower the cocktail
- Caprese salad – Fresh mozzarella and basil feel light and summery alongside citrus
Casual Pairings
- Fish tacos – Bright lime and fresh toppings pair effortlessly with the citrusy drink
- Chicken sliders – Savory bites contrast the slight sweetness of the cocktail
- Flatbread with ricotta and lemon zest – Creamy and citrusy elements tie everything together
- Charcuterie board – Salty meats and cheeses balance the sweet-tart lemonade
Desserts
- Lemon bars – Double down on citrus in the best way!
- Shortbread cookies – Buttery and simple, letting the drink shine
- Berry tarts – Fresh berries echo the pink lemonade notes
- Vanilla cupcakes – Soft sweetness pairs gently with the botanicals
Occasion Vibes
Gin & pink lemonade is perfect for backyard BBQs, bridal showers, summer brunches, and patio evenings. It pairs best with light, fresh, slightly salty foods that let the citrus and botanicals stay the star!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make a Mocktail Version?
Yes, you can replace gin with a non-alcoholic alternative or omit it entirely for a delicious mocktail.
A good alternative would be a juniper soda, tonic, or seltzer, which will carry the gin notes in a non-alcoholic form. You can omit additional sparkling water and just mix it directly with the pink lemonade.
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
You can mix the gin and lemonade up to 2 days in advance. Ice, carbonated elements, and garnishes should be added just before serving for maximum freshness.
Is Gin And Pink Lemonade Good?
Yes! Gin and pink lemonade is a bright, refreshing combination. The citrusy sweetness of the lemonade softens the gin’s botanical notes, creating a balanced cocktail that’s easy to sip, especially in warm weather.
Tips For the Best Gin and Pink Lemonade
- If you have time in advance, make homemade ice cubes from lemonade or pink lemonade to use in the drink. They’ll chill your drink without dilution, and even add some extra flavor!
- For a sweeter drink, add more lemonade, and for less sweet, use more unsweetened sparkling water. If you prefer a weaker or stronger drink, adjust the amount of gin you use (but I believe it’s fairly middle of the road as written)
Storage and Serving
- This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh due to the ice and carbonated component. However, you can mix the gin and pink lemonade in advance and store it in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Add ice, sparkling water, and garnishes just before serving
- I usually opt for lowball glasses, but this drink is versatile. Rocks glasses or whiskey glasses are my go-to, but a gin and pink lemonade is also cute in mason jars, or wine glasses for a more elegant feel! You may need to adjust the amount of sparkling water based on the size glass you choose
- Pear Gin Fizz
- Fig Gin Cocktail
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing I love more than simple drinks, especially when they’re delicious! The combination of gin and pink lemonade in this fruity, bubbly cocktail is a refreshing sip for sure.
With just 3 ingredients (plus ice and any garnishes you want) and a few minutes to throw together, you can’t go wrong! The flavor profile makes it great for spring and summer, but it’s equally nice for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s day as well!
Experiment with different gins and pink lemonade varieties to really make the drink your own! Strawberry is my favorite, but there are lots of other great combinations to try (and enjoy)!
Katie’s tip
For a berry and lemon drink made with vodka instead, check out my Spring Spritzer Cocktail!
Easy Gin and Pink Lemonade Cocktail
Equipment
- Rocks glass (or similar)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 3 ounces prepared pink lemonade (I use strawberry)
- 2 ounces pink lemonade sparkling water (unsweetened)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- To a lowball glass, add the gin and pink lemonade of choice and stir to combine2 ounces gin, 3 ounces prepared pink lemonade
- Fill the glass with iceIce cubes
- Top with the sparkling water (you may need to adjust the amount based on glass size, or your personal preferences on drink strength)2 ounces pink lemonade sparkling water
- Garnish if desired, and enjoy
Notes
- Any gin is fine for this recipe. If you happen to have it, you can use a pink gin like Beefeater strawberry pink gin, Gordon, Gibson’s, or similar for extra color and/or flavor
- You can use any type of prepared pink lemonade such as strawberry, raspberry, rose, powdered mix (prepared per package directions), pink cranberry, or even sweet “juice” drinks like Snapple or Brisk
- I like Polar pink lemonade sparkling water, but you can use any brand. If you don’t have pink lemonade flavor available, substitute lemon, raspberry, strawberry, or you can also use tonic water, club soda, or prosecco. Make sure to get an unsweetened variety (since the lemonade is already sweet)
- If you have time in advance, make homemade ice cubes from lemonade or pink lemonade to use in the drink. They’ll chill your drink without dilution, and even add some extra flavor!
- For a sweeter drink, add more lemonade, and for less sweet, use more unsweetened sparkling water. If you prefer a weaker or stronger drink, adjust the amount of gin you use (but it’s fairly middle of the road as written)
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any garnishes added, size of glass and ice, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
