The Ice Pick cocktail is one of those simple, refreshing drinks that’s perfect for warm afternoons or casual get-togethers. It’s a smooth mix of vodka and iced tea, finished with a slice of lemon for a bright, citrusy kick. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to hit the spot—especially when I want something easy to sip on without a lot of fuss. Let’s get into how to make it just right.
Ice Pick
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 4 oz (120ml) iced tea (unsweetened or sweetened, depending on preference)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice (for garnish)
A highball glass works best for this drink, but if you want a rustic touch, a mason jar is a great alternative.
How to Make an Ice Pick
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 2 oz of vodka.
- Top with 4 oz of iced tea and stir well.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon.
That’s it! Quick, easy, and incredibly refreshing.
Tips for the Best Ice Pick
- Use freshly brewed iced tea for the best flavor. Bottled tea works in a pinch, but homemade tea gives you more control over the taste.
- Want a little extra zing? Add a splash of lemonade or a twist of lemon zest before serving.
- Experiment with flavored vodkas like peach or raspberry for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
The Ice Pick pairs beautifully with food, especially dishes that balance its light, crisp taste.
- Barbecue Favorites – The mix of vodka and tea cuts through the richness of grilled meats like pulled pork or smoked chicken.
- Spicy Snacks – Buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or spicy shrimp tacos are great choices. The cool tea helps mellow out the heat.
- Fresh Summer Salads – A citrusy vinaigrette on a green salad complements the lemon garnish in the drink.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun takes on the classic Ice Pick:
Peachy Ice Pick
- Swap regular vodka for peach-flavored vodka and garnish with a fresh peach slice.
Raspberry Ice Pick
- Use raspberry iced tea and raspberry vodka, then top with fresh raspberries.
Minty Ice Pick
- Muddle fresh mint leaves at the bottom of the glass before adding vodka and iced tea. A splash of lime juice gives it a bright, refreshing finish.
Virgin Ice Pick
- Skip the vodka and use lemon-flavored sparkling water instead for a bubbly, alcohol-free version.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- If you’re making Ice Picks for a crowd, mix the vodka and iced tea in a pitcher ahead of time. Just wait to add ice until serving so it doesn’t water down.
- Leftover tea? Store it in the fridge and use it for quick cocktails later.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled iced tea?
Yes! Freshly brewed tea has a better flavor, but bottled tea is totally fine if you’re short on time.
What’s the best vodka to use?
A clean, unflavored vodka is classic, but flavored vodkas (like citrus or berry) can add a nice twist.
How can I sweeten it without adding too much sugar?
Try honey or agave syrup—they’re naturally sweeter than sugar, so you don’t need as much.
Is this a strong drink?
It depends on how much vodka you use! You can adjust the ratio to make it stronger or lighter.
What snacks go well with an Ice Pick?
Think light and crisp—chips and dip, sliders, or even bruschetta are great pairings.
The Ice Pick is one of my go-to drinks when I want something simple but satisfying. The combo of cool tea, crisp vodka, and a touch of lemon makes it just right for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to your taste!
