Lemon Drop
The Lemon Drop is a refreshing cocktail that combines vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, creating a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.
- 5 min
- Easy
- Cocktail glass
- 3 ingredients
Lemon Drop
Ingredients
- Vodka2¼ oz
- Cointreau2¼ oz
- LemonJuice of 1 wedge
Method
- Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass rimmed with sugar.
What you need
Nothing fancy. Here is what to look for. We earn a small cut if you buy through these links, at no cost to you.
A shaker that seals
Two weighted tins beat three-piece shakers. They chill faster and never jam.
See on Amazon ↗A Hawthorne strainer
The coiled spring holds back ice and pulp. Look for a tight coil.
See on Amazon ↗The hero bottle
Vodka stands as the ultimate blank canvas in the spirits world, offering mixologists and home bartenders unparalleled versatility. Unlike whiskey's oak complexity or gin's botanical symphony, vodka's neutral character allows other ingredients to shine while providing a clean, smooth alcoholic backbone.
See 113 Vodka drinksWhere it comes from
The Lemon Drop emerged in contemporary bartending culture during the 1970s-1980s as a vodka-based shooter and later evolved into a sophisticated cocktail. This drink represents the modernization of classic cocktail culture, combining vodka's neutrality with bright citrus flavors and the sweetness of liqueur.
Tips from the bar
- Use premium vodka for a smoother base
- fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for brightness
- chill the glass with sugar rim beforehand
- serve as either a chilled shot or a proper cocktail depending on occasion
Twists worth trying
- Flavored Lemon Drop
- Uses flavored vodkas like vanilla or citrus vodka for added dimension
- Spiced Lemon Drop
- incorporates ginger liqueur and a touch of turmeric for warmth
- Lemon Drop Martini
- serves in a martini glass with additional citrus notes and garnish
What to eat with it
- Lemon meringue pie
- shortbread cookies
- oysters
- goat cheese appetizers
- lemon pound cake
The finished drink
Questions
What is in a Lemon Drop?
A Lemon Drop is made with vodka, cointreau, lemon.
What glass do you use for a Lemon Drop?
Serve a Lemon Drop in a cocktail glass.
What does a Lemon Drop taste like?
Expect sweet, tangy, refreshing.
What can I make with Vodka?
We have 113 drinks built around Vodka. See them all on the Vodka page.
More with Vodka
Every Vodka drink →One good drink, every Friday.
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