Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for trying new vodka cocktails at home, and honestly, the Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour has ended up as one of my go-tos. There’s something about the warmth of cinnamon, that mellow vanilla sweetness, and the kick of fresh lemon juice that just works.

If you’re after a sour cocktail that’s both comforting and a bit zippy, this one’s a winner for your next get-together.

Every time I whip up this cocktail, someone ends up asking how to make it. It’s easy, and it stands out from the usual vodka drinks—probably because the vanilla and cinnamon combo is just different enough.

You don’t need much to pull this off. Just a handful of ingredients, a couple of tools, and maybe five minutes.

If you like sours or you’re bored with the same old drinks, I’d say give this Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour a shot.

Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Sour Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail’s got a smooth, sweet vibe with a little spice sneaking in. I always use fresh lemon juice, cinnamon and vanilla vodka, and a few extras for that creamy, balanced finish.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker (a strainer’s nice)
• Jigger or shot glass for measuring
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, but makes it smoother)
• Citrus juicer or reamer for squeezing lemon
• Small plate or shallow bowl for cinnamon sugar rim
• Bar spoon for mixing
• Coupe or rocks glass for serving
• Paper towel or napkin for wiping the rim

A solid shaker is key, especially if you want that foamy top from the egg white or aquafaba. I like using measuring tools—makes it easier to nail the flavor every time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz cinnamon vodka or 1 oz cinnamon vodka + 1 oz vanilla vodka
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup or honey (I usually go with honey for that richer taste)
• 1 egg white or 1 oz aquafaba (for foam)
• Cinnamon sugar (for the rim, if you’re feeling fancy)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or cinnamon stick (for garnish, totally optional)

Fresh lemon juice just pops more than bottled, trust me. Mixing cinnamon and vanilla vodka gives the drink this cozy, sweet layer.

If you’re not into eggs, aquafaba’s a super easy swap and still gets you that classic sour foam.

Instructions

• Wet your glass rim with a lemon wedge, then dip it into cinnamon sugar.
• Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add cinnamon vodka, vanilla vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup or honey, and egg white or aquafaba to the shaker.
• Shake for about 10 seconds to chill it all down.
• Ditch the ice from the shaker, then do a “dry shake” (no ice) to amp up the foam.
• Strain into your prepped glass, and use a fine mesh strainer if you want it extra smooth.
• Garnish with a lemon twist or cinnamon stick—whatever you’re in the mood for.

That dry shake really does help with the silky foam on top. And the cinnamon sugar rim? It’s a little extra, but I love that first sweet-spicy sip.

Notes

If you’ve got both cinnamon and vanilla vodka, use them together. The balance is just right.

Only have cinnamon vodka? Just toss in a few drops of vanilla extract.

Fresh lemon juice makes the whole drink brighter. Honey adds a cozy note, but if you want to stick with simple syrup, that’s fine too.

For a vegan version, aquafaba is the move instead of egg white. The cinnamon sugar rim isn’t a must, but it’s quick and adds a nice touch.

Sometimes I’ll sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for extra aroma—why not?

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip, the gentle warmth of cinnamon jumps out at me. It sort of blends right into the vanilla, giving everything this sweet, cozy vibe.

There’s a little sourness that cuts through, adding a crisp, fresh edge. Honestly, it keeps things from feeling heavy or, you know, syrupy.

The texture? It’s silky and light. That egg white on top forms a foamy layer that just makes every mouthful creamy—almost soft, if that makes sense.

Finishing each sip, I get those hints of vanilla and a bit of spice from the cinnamon lingering on my tongue. The aftertaste hangs around, but not in a cloying way.

The smell is honestly pretty inviting. Even before I take a sip, I catch that mix of cinnamon and vanilla drifting up from the glass.

Key Flavors I Notice:

• Cinnamon spice
• Smooth vanilla
• Bright lemon
• Light sweetness

Each piece stands out on its own, but they all work well together. That balance makes the cocktail just really easy to drink.