This lemon drop cocktail recipe is EASY to make and is sure to impress guests. Use honey simple syrup for a less sweet version of the popular adult drink.
Original post: September 2018 | Updated: May 2021
Why This Recipe Works
Neither of us loves super-sweet drinks, so my husband crafted a delicious Honey Simple Syrup that we use for this lemony beverage to take the edge off the sweetness. The honey, which replaces the typical refined sugar, not only reduces the sweetness but also adds a delicious and unique flavor to the drink.
When we have guests over who enjoy adult beverages, this is our go-to drink to make for them. And by “our,” I mean Dan’s. Because I’ve never actually made one myself.
Everyone who tries this lemon drop cocktail recipe falls in love. And if you love this beverage, my husband also makes a mean margarita that makes people swoon.
Recipe Ingredients
Vodka – The only alcohol that goes into this bevvie! Use any variety you’d like.
Lemon juice – Promise me you won’t use lemon juice that comes from those little plastic lemons you can buy at the grocery store. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best! Use our favorite citrus juicer to make juicing as easy as possible.
Simple syrup – Homemade simple syrup is super easy, which is why we never go store-bought with this ingredient. Make simple syrup using sugar if that is what you have on hand, but honey simple syrup tastes so delicious when combined with lemon juice.
Garnish – Before you juice those lemons, cut off a few lemon slices or wedges for garnish.
How To Make This Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe
Step 1
Place 2-3 ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Add the lemon juice, simple syrup and vodka.
Step 2
Shake vigorously and pour into a glass. Serve with a lemon wedge, for garnish.
Recipe Notes
- Change up the citrus in the recipe and use lime juice or grapefruit juice instead.
- A splash of Sprite on top just before serving adds a bubbly flavor.
- Float Triple Sec on the top after pouring it into the glass for a touch of orange flavor.
- Wet the rim of the glass and dip in sugar before filling the glass and serving.
- This drink can be made sans shaker, but the end result will be much less bubbly.
FAQ About Lemon Drops
To make a lemon drop martini in a pitcher that serves 4 people, combine 4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice, 4 oz simple syrup and 8 oz vodka. Throw in extra lemon slices, mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
There are equal parts non-alcoholic liquid (simple syrup + lemon juice) and alcohol (vodka) in a lemon drop martini, making it a fairly strong drink. Cut the amount of alcohol used in the recipe for a less strong drink.
A lemon drop is an alcoholic drink made with vodka, lemon and simple syrup.
A lemon drop shot contains 2 oz of regular or lemon-flavored vodka, 0.5 oz ounce Triple Sec and 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Related Recipes
What To Do With Lemons
Lemons are such a magical and versatile citrus fruit. If you are wondering what to do with lemons that might be sitting in your kitchen, read on for a variety of delicious ideas!
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Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 oz Honey Simple Syrup
- 2 oz vodka
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Place 2-3 ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Add the lemon juice, simple syrup and vodka.
- Shake vigorously and pour into a glass. Serve with a lemon wedge, for garnish.
Notes
- Change up the citrus in the recipe and use lime juice or grapefruit juice instead.
- A splash of Sprite on top just before serving adds a bubbly flavor.
- Wet the rim of the glass and dip in sugar before filling the glass and serving.
- This drink can be made sans shaker, but the end result will be much less bubbly.
This recipe is so good. Thanks for the recipe.