Oh, you’re going to love this one.
A Lavender Lemon Collins is light, refreshing, and just a tiny bit fancy—without being too much work.
It’s the perfect drink for when you want to feel like you’re at a swanky cocktail bar but are actually just relaxing at home.
The lavender adds a subtle floral note that balances the zesty lemon, and the bubbly soda water ties it all together beautifully.
Trust me, this one’s a keeper for backyard BBQs, brunches, or just treating yourself.
Let’s make it!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (or vodka for a twist)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1 oz lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
- Soda water (to top)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs for garnish
Tools:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Tall glass
- Small saucepan (for lavender syrup)
- Wooden spoon
Pro Tips
- Don’t overdo the lavender. A little goes a long way. Too much can taste soapy, so keep it light.
- Use fresh lemon juice. It makes all the difference in the flavor—no bottled stuff here!
- Chill your glass beforehand. Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to keep your drink cold longer.
- Make the lavender syrup in advance. It keeps for about 2 weeks in the fridge, so you’ll always have some on hand.
- Involve the kids! If you skip the alcohol, it makes a fun floral lemonade they can enjoy.
Substitutions and Variations
- No gin? Swap it for vodka or even tequila for a fun twist.
- Non-alcoholic version: Skip the gin, add more soda water or sparkling lemonade instead.
- Don’t have lavender? Try rosemary or thyme for a different herbal vibe.
- Low sugar option: Reduce the amount of lavender syrup or replace with a sugar-free version.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the lavender simple syrup a few days before. Just store it in an airtight jar in the fridge.
Instructions
1. Make the lavender simple syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and cool. Strain to remove the lavender pieces.
2. Prep your shaker:
Add 2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 oz lavender simple syrup, and a handful of ice cubes to your cocktail shaker. Shake well for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain and pour:
Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
4. Top with soda water:
Fill the rest of the glass with soda water, giving it a gentle stir to combine.
5. Garnish and serve:
Add a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh lavender for garnish. Serve immediately!
Leftovers and Storage
- If you have extra lavender simple syrup, store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Mixed cocktails don’t store well, so make them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
Wrap-Up
This Lavender Lemon Collins is like sunshine in a glass—bright, bubbly, and just a little floral.
It’s easy enough to whip up for yourself on a cozy evening and fancy enough to impress guests at your next get-together.
Let me know how yours turns out in the comments!
Did you make any fun twists or try the mocktail version?
I can’t wait to hear all about it. Cheers! 🥂
