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Classic lemon drop cocktail recipe with vodka, fresh lemon juice, and sugar rim

Lemon Drop Recipe

This classic Lemon Drop recipe is a refreshing vodka cocktail with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Made with fresh lemon juice, vodka, triple sec, and simple syrup, this citrus cocktail is served in a sugar-rimmed glass for an elegant and delicious drink. Perfect for parties, summer gatherings, or relaxing evenings, this easy Lemon Drop cocktail comes together in just a few minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cocktail
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • ½ oz triple sec (or Cointreau)
  • ½-1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes
For the Glass
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • Lemon wedge
For Garnish
  • Lemon twist or lemon slice

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Small plate (for sugar rim)
  • Citrus juicer
  • Strainer
  • Martini glass or cocktail glass

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Glass

    Start by preparing your serving glass. Take a lemon wedge and rub it around the rim of a martini or cocktail glass. Dip the rim into a plate of granulated sugar so it sticks evenly around the edge. This sugar rim balances the tart flavor of the lemon juice.
    Preparing a sugar rim on a martini glass using a fresh lemon wedge for a lemon drop cocktail

  2. Fill the Cocktail Shaker

    Add a handful of ice cubes into a cocktail shaker. The ice helps chill the drink quickly and slightly dilutes the ingredients for a smooth flavor.
    Fresh lemon juice being squeezed with a citrus juicer for a lemon drop recipe

  3. Add the Ingredients

    Pour the vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup into the shaker. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended because it gives the cocktail a bright and natural citrus flavor.
    Vodka, lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup added to a cocktail shaker for lemon drop recipe

  4. Shake the Cocktail

    Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds. This step chills the drink and blends the flavors perfectly.
    Cocktail shaker being shaken with ice to mix a lemon drop cocktail

  5. Strain into the Glass

    Using a strainer, pour the cocktail mixture into the prepared sugar-rimmed martini glass. The drink should be smooth, chilled, and crystal clear.
    Lemon drop cocktail being strained into a sugar rimmed martini glass

  6. Garnish and Serve

    Finish by adding a lemon twist or lemon slice on the rim of the glass. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing homemade Lemon Drop cocktail.
    Lemon twist garnish placed on a lemon drop martini glass with sugar rim

Notes

Lemon Drop Recipe

Use Fresh Lemons
Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor and prevents the drink from tasting artificial.
Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the simple syrup slightly. For a more tart cocktail, reduce the syrup.
Chill the Glass
For the best presentation, chill your martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before serving.
Use Quality Vodka
A smoother vodka improves the overall taste of the cocktail.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Course: Drinks / Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: ~170 kcal
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