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Lemon Drop Martini

A popular, vibrant, and delightfully sweet-tart cocktail, the Lemon Drop Martini is a vodka-based drink combining lemon juice and a touch of sweetness, often served with a sugar-rimmed glass.

Lemon Drop Martini
Vodka
Lemon
Sweet-Sour
Martini
Refreshing
Cocktail
4.7 / 5
5 min
Prep Time
Servings
Lemon Drop Martini
$7.00
Ingredients
0/6 ready
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Step-by-Step Instructions
1

Prepare sugar rim (optional)

If desired, rim a chilled martini glass with sugar. Moisten the rim with a lemon wedge, then dip it into a shallow plate of granulated sugar. Set aside to chill further.

💡 Tips:

  • •The sugar rim adds to the 'lemon drop candy' experience.
Estimated time: 1 min
2

Combine ingredients in shaker

In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces (60 ml) vodka, 0.75 ounce (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 ounce (22.5 ml) simple syrup. Add 1 serving of ice.

💡 Tips:

  • •Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for the best flavor; avoid bottled juice.
Estimated time: 1 min
3

Shake well

Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled and the shaker is frosty.

💡 Tips:

  • •Shake until properly diluted and thoroughly chilled.
Estimated time: 1 min
4

Strain and garnish

Discard any ice from your prepared martini glass. Double strain the chilled mixture into the glass to ensure no ice chips or pulp remain. Garnish with 1 lemon twist or wheel.

💡 Tips:

  • •A double strain provides a silky-smooth texture.
Estimated time: 2 min
Flavor Profile
Sweet-Sour
Citrusy
Refreshing
Vodka-forward
Alcohol Content
18-22% ABV
Enjoy responsibly!
Fun Fact
The Lemon Drop Martini is believed to have originated in the 1970s at a bar called Henry's Africa in San Francisco. It became widely popular in the 1990s and is now a staple on cocktail menus, especially appreciated for its balanced sweet and sour profile.
Bartender's Tips
  • 💡Adjust the simple syrup quantity to achieve your preferred balance of sweet and tart.
  • 💡For a more complex citrus note, you can use Cointreau or triple sec instead of simple syrup, or a combination.
  • 💡The quality of your vodka will be noticeable, so use a good one.
  • 💡Consider a short, chilled shot glass version for a 'Lemon Drop Shot'.

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Lemon Drop Martini Drink Recipe Made Easy & Simple