Lemon Drop Shot

      This refreshing and vibrant Lemon Drop shot is a favorite for good reason! With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s a go-to cocktail for entertaining at home.

We’ve been making this cocktail for years, and it’s always a hit with friends. If you check the comments, you’ll see just how much our readers love it, too!

The secret to an exceptional Lemon Drop Martini lies in getting the sweet-tart balance just right. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference, bringing a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the drink.

Ingredients:

Lemon Drop Martini

• 2 ounces (1/4 cup) quality vodka, try a citron vodka
• 3/4 ounce (1 ½ tablespoons) Cointreau or triple sec
• 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) fresh squeezed lemon juice (juice from 1/2 large lemon)
• 3/4 ounce (1 ½ tablespoons) simple syrup

Lemon Sugar

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Zest from 1 lemon

How to Make a Lemon Drop Shot:

For the best lemon drop martini, a lemon sugar rim is a must, it elevates the drink to the next level. To prepare it, zest a lemon using a microplane and mix the zest into sugar with your fingers until it’s fragrant and light yellow. Spread the mixture onto a plate.

Chill a martini glass, rub a lemon wedge along the rim, and dip it into the lemon sugar to coat.

When making this martini, use a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Add vodka, Cointreau (or Triple Sec), freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. Secure the lid and shake in all directions until the mixture is well chilled. Strain into your prepared glass and enjoy!

Make-Ahead Lemon Drop Martinis:

Lemon drop martinis are great for preparing in advance, especially when hosting guests. Instead of making individual servings, you can mix a larger batch in a pitcher and refrigerate it. You can also prepare the lemon sugar ahead of time.

For a pitcher serving four, combine:

• 1 cup (8 oz) vodka
• 6 tablespoons (3 oz) Cointreau
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) fresh lemon juice
• 6 tablespoons (3 oz) simple syrup

To serve, coat the rim of each glass with lemon sugar, then pour in the premixed martini. Quick, easy, and great for entertaining! This method also works well for Cosmopolitan martinis.

Key Ingredients:

• Vodka : Since vodka is the foundation of this cocktail, choose one you enjoy. Some great mid-range options include Ketel One, Stolichnaya (Stoli), and Tito’s.
• Cointreau or Triple Sec : These orange-flavored liqueurs add a citrusy depth. Cointreau has a richer, smoother flavor but comes at a higher price, while Triple Sec is a more budget-friendly option.
• Lemon : Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference. Typically, the juice from half a large lemon is enough for one drink. For an extra citrus boost, lemon zest is also great for the sugar rim.
• Simple Syrup : This sweetens the cocktail and balances the tartness of the lemon. You can use store-bought syrup or just make your own at home.

How to Serve Lemon Drop Shots:

For the best experience, serve each shot with a sugared lemon wedge. To elevate the presentation, rim each shot glass with sugar before pouring.

Make Lemon Drop Shots for a Crowd:

Lemon drop shots are easy to scale up for larger gatherings. Since the recipe uses equal parts vodka and lemon juice, simply multiply the quantities as needed. Mix the ingredients in an airtight container and store in the fridge until ready to serve.

History of the Lemon Drop Shot:

The Lemon Drop Shot traces its origins to the Lemon Drop Martini, a cocktail that gained popularity in the 1970s. Known for its refreshing mix of vodka, lemon juice, and sugar, the martini inspired the creation of the shot, offering a smaller, more concentrated version of the classic drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• A Classic Crowd-Pleaser : Bright, zesty, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this shot is one that most people enjoy.
• Quick & Easy : With just three main ingredients, you can make these shots in minutes, ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly : Mix a batch in advance, store it in the fridge, and you’ll have chilled shots ready to pour anytime.
• Versatile for Any Occasion : Whether it’s a summer party, a holiday get-together, or a casual night in, these lemon drop shots are always a hit!

Food Pairing:

Elevate your Lemon Drop Shot experience with these complementary bites:

• Antipasto Skewers : A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats adds a savory contrast to the shot’s citrusy sweetness.
• Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp : The rich umami of parmesan and garlic pairs beautifully with the bright, zesty flavors of the shot.
• Whipped Honey Goat Cheese Spread : The creamy tang of goat cheese with a touch of honey creates a balanced, sweet-savory pairing.
• Heirloom Tomato Galette : A flaky crust and naturally sweet heirloom tomatoes bring a rustic touch that complements the lemon notes.
• Dips & Spreads : From creamy vegetable dips to mango salsa, a variety of flavors can stand up to and enhance the shot’s citrus profile.
• Olives & Almonds : A simple yet elegant combination of briny olives and crunchy almonds adds depth to your tasting experience.
• Lemon-Themed Desserts : Keep the citrus theme going with lemon bars, lemon meringue pie, or refreshing lemon sorbet.