The Kiwi Lemonade Cooler is light, refreshing, and full of bright, fruity flavor. It combines fresh kiwi puree or muddled kiwi with crisp lemonade, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Top it off with sparkling water for a little fizz, and serve it over ice for a drink that’s cooling and easy to sip. Garnish with a kiwi slice or a lemon wheel for a fun, colorful finish. This cooler is great for warm afternoons, picnics, or anytime you’re in the mood for something fresh and vibrant without the fuss.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Kiwi Lemonade Cooler is a zesty, tropical cocktail with a crisp, citrus-forward bite and a burst of juicy kiwi freshness. Vodka or gin adds a smooth, spirited base, while lemon juice sharpens the flavor and lemonade brings a sweet, tangy brightness. Muddled kiwi offers a vibrant pop of natural fruitiness, and club soda finishes it off with a sparkling lift. Refreshing, light, and visually striking, this drink is perfect for sipping in the sun or elevating any casual happy hour.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a muddler (or the back of a spoon) to crush the kiwi, a shaker to blend and chill the cocktail, and a fine mesh strainer for a smooth finish. A jigger ensures precise measurements. Serve in a Collins or highball glass to showcase the drink’s vibrant green hue and effervescence. A citrus knife or garnish pick will help place the kiwi slice with flair.
Ingredients
- 1 handful fresh kiwi (peeled and sliced)
- 2 oz vodka or gin
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 4 oz lemonade
- Club soda (to top)
- Kiwi slice (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle the Kiwi: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the kiwi slices until juicy.
- Build the Drink: Add vodka or gin, lemon juice, and lemonade to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain: Double strain through a fine mesh strainer into a glass filled with ice.
- Top and Garnish: Top with club soda and garnish with a fresh kiwi slice.
Pro Tips
- Chill your glass in advance to keep the drink cool longer without dilution.
- For a sweeter twist, add a splash of kiwi or elderflower syrup.
- Want a mocktail version? Omit the alcohol and add extra lemonade or a splash of white grape juice.
- Use golden kiwis for a sweeter, less tangy flavor and a unique color twist.
When to Serve
The Kiwi Lemonade Cooler is a go-to cocktail for warm-weather gatherings, offering a refreshing blend of bright citrus and juicy fruit flavors. Its combination of muddled kiwi, lemonade, lemon juice, and a splash of vodka or gin creates a crisp, easy-drinking base, while a touch of club soda adds a bubbly lift. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together, lounging poolside, enjoying a garden brunch, or unwinding on the patio, this drink brings a cool, fruity flair to any setting. With its fresh taste and eye-catching appearance, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits right in at both casual hangouts and festive occasions.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Club soda: Fever-Tree, Topo Chico, or Q Mixers for quality bubbles
- Vodka: Tito’s, Absolut, or Ketel One for smooth, clean flavor
- Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, or Empress 1908 for botanical depth
- Lemonade: Simply Lemonade or homemade for fresh, bright citrus
Similar Cocktails
- Kiwi Vodka Lemonade
- Plum Vodka Lemonade
- Kiwi Collins
- Pomegranate Vodka Lemonade
- Coconut Vodka Lemonade