Vanilla Bean Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

Sometimes, I just want a cocktail that’s a bit out of the ordinary. That’s where the Vanilla Bean Gin Fizz comes in—simple, but with that creamy, real vanilla flavor that makes it feel special.

It’s honestly pretty easy to whip up at home. No need to be a pro bartender or anything.

With just a few ingredients and some basic tools, you can have a drink that’s both smooth and refreshing. If vanilla and gin together sound good to you, well, you’re in the right place.

Vanilla Bean Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

I really like how this recipe brings together the smoothness of vanilla bean with the zing of gin, lemon juice, and soda water. Using real vanilla and fresh stuff makes each sip feel kind of light, creamy, and just a little bit fancy.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger (for measuring)
• Fine mesh strainer
• Highball glass
• Bar spoon
• Knife and small cutting board
• Long straw (optional)

You’ll want a sharp knife for splitting the vanilla bean. The shaker helps everything mix well.

A fine mesh strainer is pretty important if you don’t want random bits of vanilla or lemon pulp floating around. I always reach for a highball glass—it leaves plenty of space for all that fizzy soda water.

A bar spoon is nice for stirring things together gently. Sometimes I’ll toss in a reusable straw, just because it makes sipping easier.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz vanilla simple syrup (recipe: equal parts sugar, water, and 1 split vanilla bean)
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for a stronger vanilla taste)
• 2-3 oz chilled soda water
• Ice
• Vanilla bean pod or lemon slice (for garnish)

I usually go with my favorite gin—it keeps things clean and botanical. Fresh lemon juice really balances out the sweetness from the syrup.

Making the vanilla simple syrup with real vanilla bean is totally worth it for that true vanilla kick. If I’m in the mood for more flavor, I’ll add a splash of vanilla extract.

Chilled soda water brings the bubbles and keeps the cocktail light. For the garnish, I’ll sometimes use a vanilla bean or a lemon slice—either one looks great.

Instructions

• Add gin, lemon juice, vanilla simple syrup, and vanilla extract (optional) to a shaker.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 10 seconds until chilled.
• Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top with 2-3 oz chilled soda water.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix.
• Garnish with a vanilla bean pod or a lemon slice.

I try not to over-shake—just enough to chill it without watering things down. Straining helps keep the drink smooth.

When I add the soda water, I pour it in slowly so the fizz sticks around. A gentle stir blends everything without killing the bubbles.

The garnish? It adds a nice aroma and makes the drink look inviting.

Notes

Honestly, using real vanilla bean in the syrup makes all the difference. Vanilla extract can make things a bit sweeter, so I only use it if I really want a punch of vanilla.

If I’m making drinks for a few friends, I’ll prep extra vanilla syrup ahead of time. Craft or small-batch gin works really well here—the vanilla shouldn’t drown out the gin’s botanicals.

For a less sweet version, I just cut back on the syrup and add a touch more lemon juice. I serve this drink right away since the fizz is best when it’s fresh.

Sometimes, if I’m feeling extra citrusy, I’ll swap in sparkling lemon water for the soda. It’s a fun twist.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of this vanilla bean gin fizz, the first thing that hits me is the gentle sweetness from the vanilla. It kind of melts into the bright, herbal notes from the gin.

The creamy foam on top, thanks to the egg white, gives it this silky, almost cloud-like mouthfeel. There’s just something about that texture that makes the whole thing feel a bit fancy, even if I’m just making it at home.

A little zing comes through from the fresh lemon. That citrus really lifts the drink, making it extra refreshing.

The fizz from the club soda adds a lively sparkle. Honestly, it keeps the whole cocktail light and playful.

Every sip feels clean and balanced. The vanilla doesn’t take over—it just brings a gentle warmth.

If I’m feeling like less sweetness, I’ll cut back on the simple syrup. Easy fix.

The scent is soft, with both vanilla and fresh lemon coming through. It honestly smells inviting right from the first pour.

For me, this drink just fits. It’s perfect on a warm day, or really whenever I want something light but still packed with flavor.