Cocktails with Vanilla Vodka
Vanilla vodka is vodka infused with vanilla flavoring, adding sweetness and warmth to cocktails. Essential for dessert shots like Pineapple Upside Down Cake.
- Type
- Spirit
- Strength
- 35–40% ABV
- Aroma
- Vanilla bean, Sweet cream, Light caramel, Clean spirit
- Taste
- Vanilla, Sweet, Creamy, Smooth, Light spice
- Finish
- Vanilla, Sweet warmth, Medium
5 drinks with Vanilla Vodka
History
Flavored vodkas exploded in popularity in the 1990s and 2000s, with vanilla becoming one of the most successful varieties. Stolichnaya Vanil and Absolut Vanilia led the category. Vanilla vodka bridges the gap between spirits and dessert, making it versatile for both sweet cocktails and coffee drinks.
How it’s made
Made by infusing or flavoring neutral vodka with vanilla extract, vanilla beans, or artificial vanilla flavoring. Premium versions use real vanilla beans or natural extracts, while budget options may use synthetic vanillin. The vodka base should remain clean while adding noticeable vanilla sweetness.
Bottles to try
Absolut VaniliaMid-range
Swedish vanilla vodka with rich, authentic vanilla character and smooth finish.
Stoli VanilMid-range
Russian vanilla vodka with natural Madagascar vanilla, excellent for cocktails.
Smirnoff VanillaBudget
Widely available vanilla vodka with a sweet, creamy vanilla flavour.
Got Vanilla Vodka at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.