A refreshing Kiwi Cooler Cocktail brings the sweet-tart taste of tropical fruit to any warm spring or summer day. This easy recipe combines fresh kiwi, lime juice, mint leaves, and vodka to create a bright green drink. It takes just 5 minutes to make.
The vibrant green color and fruity aroma make this cocktail perfect for garden parties, barbecues, or relaxing on the patio. The natural sweetness of kiwi pairs well with the crisp finish of vodka, while fresh mint adds a cool note.
Anyone can make this drink at home with basic bar tools and fresh ingredients. The recipe works great as a mocktail too. Just skip the vodka and add extra club soda for a fizzy non-alcoholic version.
Kiwi Cooler Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Ice cube tray
- Highball glass
- Sharp knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring jigger
Ingredients
- 2 ripe kiwis peeled and quartered
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
- Club soda to top
- Ice cubes
- Kiwi slice and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle the kiwi pieces and mint leaves in a cocktail shaker until the fruit releases its juice.
- Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a kiwi slice and mint sprig.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Kiwi Cooler Cocktail presents a bright, tropical flavor profile. Fresh kiwi fruit gives the drink a sweet-tart taste with hints of strawberry and citrus notes.
The vodka base stays subtle, letting the kiwi shine through. A touch of lime juice adds a zesty kick that balances the fruit’s natural sweetness.
When served ice-cold, this cocktail feels light and refreshing. The texture remains smooth, with tiny flecks of kiwi seeds adding visual interest and a gentle crunch.
Key flavor elements:
- Primary: Sweet kiwi
- Secondary: Citrus lime
- Background: Clean vodka
- Finish: Cool, crisp
The drink’s pale green color looks appealing in a tall glass. Garnishing with a fresh kiwi slice brings out the fruit’s natural aroma and enhances the drinking experience.
Temperature affects the taste noticeably. The cocktail tastes best when served between 35-40°F (2-4°C). It becomes less enjoyable as it warms up past 45°F (7°C).
The sweetness level stays moderate, making it suitable for both casual sipping and food pairing. It matches well with light appetizers or summer salads.
Substitute
You can swap kiwi fruit with other similar fruits to make this cocktail. Passion fruit works great and adds a tangy tropical flavor. Another option is green grapes, which give a similar sweetness.
The lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice. Both citrus fruits give the drink a nice tart kick. For a less sour taste, try orange juice instead.
No vodka? Use gin or white rum as a substitute. These spirits mix well with the fruity flavors. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with coconut water or club soda.
Fresh mint leaves make a good stand-in for basil. The mint adds a cool, refreshing note that matches well with the other ingredients.
Simple syrup alternatives include:
- Agave nectar
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Sugar-free syrup
The sparkling water can be swapped with:
- Ginger ale
- Lemon-lime soda
- Tonic water
- Sprite
