Recipes | Beverages | co*cktails | Lemon Drop co*cktail
co*cktails
Author by Jennifer Tammy on Updated on
5 from 24 votes
This lemon drop co*cktail is a riff on a classic martini and is perfect for those who want a strong co*cktail, but don't really have a taste for alcohol.
Total Time 5 minutes mins
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A classic lemon co*cktail recipe perfect for using up fresh lemons. This Lemon Drop co*cktail is a sweet and tart co*cktail great for a ladies’ night or after-dinner co*cktails.
Why this recipe works
As 70’s fashion and decor makes its come back with retro side tables and all things tassels, crochet, lace, and bell-bottoms, we would be remiss to miss out on some of the best contributions from the ’70s: inventive co*cktails, just like this lemon drop martini recipe.
The lemon drop co*cktail is one of the best mainstays from the 1970s when it was invented in a singles “fern bar” – classically decorated with wooden paneling, fake Tiffany’s lamps, and yes, lots of overgrown ferns. It’s a riff on a classic martini and is still perfect for those who want a strong co*cktail, but don’t really have a taste for alcohol. It’s among my favorite lemon drinks, right up there with the Lynchburg Lemonade!
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
LIQUOR – You will need Triple Sec and vodka. You can use any orange-flavored liquor to replace triple sec if you don’t have it.
ADDITIONS – You can use store-bought simple syrup or make your own by mixing together equal parts of water and sugar and bring to a boil on the stove until sugar dissolves. Allow it to cool completely before using. We suggest fresh lemon juice instead of from the bottle.
How to Make a Lemon Drop co*cktail
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- First, sugar the rim of your glass. You can use simple syrup to attach the sugar to the rim or water. It’s a personal preference. Place the sanding sugar in a shallow dish big enough to fit the mouth of your glass in.
- Wet the edges of the glasses (using either simple syrup or water) and then immediately dip the edge into the sanding sugar, rotating to coat the edge completely. Set aside.
- In a co*cktail shaker filled with ice, add the remaining ingredients. Attach lid and shake well.
- Divide the lemon drop co*cktail between your glasses.
- Zest or cut two small strips of lemon skin from your lemon, and then twist well. Garnish the glass with the lemon twist and serve.
EXPERT TIP: I find a chopstick or skewer is great for helping get a nice spiral, but you can just twist with your fingers.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
What kind of liquor do I use?
For this lemon drop, use a quality vodka like Titos, Absolute, or Grey Goose. It doesn’t have to be top shelf, but use one you know you’re fond of. If you can’t find Triple sec, try Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or Orange Curaçao.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon drop co*cktail recipe reminds me of sour candy, it’s got a perfect sweet-pucker effect, especially when you add the sugared rib (just like sugared candies). This is definitely a dessert co*cktail, as it’s a bit too sweet to pair with a meal, but it is perfect for sipping on with friends – especially in the summer.
More co*cktail Recipes
- Gimlet co*cktail
- Sidecar co*cktail
- Painkiller co*cktail
- Rum Cruiser co*cktail
- Cosmopolitan co*cktail
- Manhattan co*cktail
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Lemon Drop co*cktail
This lemon drop co*cktail is a riff on a classic martini and is perfect for those who want a strong co*cktail, but don't really have a taste for alcohol.
5 from 24 votes
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Rate It Save It
Course: co*cktails
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2
5 minutes mins
Calories: 258
Author: Amanda Formaro
Ingredients
- 4 oz vodka
- 1 oz triple sec
- 2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz lemon juice
- 1 lemon zest
Things You’ll Need
Before You Begin
- You can use any orange-flavored liquor to replace triple sec if you don’t have it.
- Make your own simple syrup by mixing together equal parts of water and sugar and bring to a boil on the stove until sugar dissolves. Allow to cool completely.
Instructions
First, sugar the rim of your glass. Place the sanding sugar in a shallow dish big enough to fit the mouth of your glass in.
Wet the edges of the glasses (using either simple syrup or water) and then immediately dip the edge into the sanding sugar, rotating to coat the edge completely. Set aside.
In a co*cktail shaker filled with ice, add the remaining ingredients.
Attach lid and shake well.
Divide the lemon drop co*cktail between your glasses.
Zest two small strip of lemon skin from your lemon, and then twist well. We like to use a chopstick or a skewer to wrap to skin around.
Garnish the glass with the lemon twist and serve.
Nutrition
Serving: 1glass | Calories: 258cal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 47mg | Sugar: 26g | Vitamin C: 14.9mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Follow on Pinterest @AmandaFormaro or tag #AmandasCookin!
This post originally appeared here on Aug 18, 2018 and has since been updated with new photos and tips.
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Jennifer loves sharing positive parenting inspiration, easy recipes for the foodie family, and fun kids’ activity ideas. Her goal is to provide a safe space for busy moms to come find great resources and reliable ideas to help you & your family thrive.
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Comments
Ty says
For the sugar rim, use a lemon slice to wet the rim then dip in sugar, givea a little lemony sugar boostReply
Eraina says
This is the absolute best recipe! I love the addition of zest!Reply
Terri says
I make Lemoncello using Everclear and lemon zest (steep for 45 days) & then use it to make a lemon drop martini/co*cktail with triple sec, sweet-n-sour mix & sprite. My husband drinks it faster than I can make it.
Reply
Caro says
What’s your recipe?
Reply
Winifred M says
Just want to let you know that I look forward to your email every day.
Thank you.
Winnie
Reply
Amanda Formaro says
Thank you Winnie!
Reply
Leave a Reply
As a seasoned mixologist and co*cktail enthusiast, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table when it comes to crafting the perfect libations. Over the years, I've honed my expertise in understanding the nuances of various spirits, flavors, and mixology techniques. My passion for co*cktails extends beyond just the enjoyment of drinking; it delves into the artistry and science behind creating exceptional drinks.
Now, diving into the lemon drop co*cktail, let's dissect the key concepts and information presented in the article:
-
Recipe Overview:
- The lemon drop co*cktail is a contemporary twist on a classic martini, offering a sweet and tart flavor profile.
- The recipe is highlighted as suitable for those seeking a strong co*cktail with a preference for less pronounced alcohol taste.
- The total preparation time for this co*cktail is a quick 5 minutes.
-
Historical Context:
- The lemon drop co*cktail has roots in the 1970s, originating in a singles "fern bar" characterized by retro decor elements like wooden paneling and Tiffany's lamps.
- It's positioned as a nostalgic nod to the inventive co*cktails of that era, combining the essence of a classic martini with a unique twist.
-
Ingredients:
- The key components include vodka, Triple Sec, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice.
- The article provides substitution suggestions, allowing flexibility in using different orange-flavored liquors if Triple Sec is unavailable.
- Emphasis is placed on using fresh lemon juice over bottled alternatives for a superior taste.
-
Preparation Steps:
- The article details a step-by-step guide for making the lemon drop co*cktail, accompanied by visuals.
- Noteworthy steps include sugaring the rim of the glass with sanding sugar and garnishing the co*cktail with a lemon twist.
- A co*cktail shaker filled with ice is used to mix the ingredients thoroughly, creating a well-balanced and chilled drink.
-
Expert Tips and FAQs:
- The expert tip suggests using a chopstick or skewer to create an aesthetically pleasing lemon twist.
- Quality vodka recommendations such as Tito's, Absolute, or Grey Goose are provided for an optimal co*cktail experience.
- Commonly asked questions revolve around liquor choices and serving suggestions.
-
Nutritional Information:
- Nutritional details, including calories and carbohydrate content, are provided for those mindful of dietary considerations.
-
User Engagement:
- The article encourages user engagement through a comment section, where readers can share their experiences, tips, and questions.
- Reader comments include personal variations of the recipe, such as making Lemoncello and using it in a lemon drop martini.
In summary, this lemon drop co*cktail recipe is not just a set of instructions but a curated experience that blends history, expertise, and a touch of personalization. It invites readers to engage, experiment, and savor the delightful world of mixology.
