The Best Homemade Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This lemon drop cocktail is a zesty, invigorating drink that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself.
- Easy to make—just a few simple ingredients and no fancy tools needed.
- Bright, tangy flavor—the perfect balance of sweet and sour for a lively sip.
- Customizable sweetness—adjust the sugar to suit your taste, making it as tart or as sweet as you like.
Recipe
The Homemade Lemon Drop Cocktail is a revitalizing, sweet, and tangy drink perfect for any occasion. This classic cocktail combines the bright flavors of lemon with a hint of sweetness, making it a favorite for both casual gatherings and elegant evenings.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon twist or slice (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rim a cocktail glass by rubbing a lemon wedge around the edge, then dip it into sugar to coat. Set aside.
- In a shaker, combine vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or slice and serve immediately.
Notes:
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
- For a smoother texture, strain the cocktail twice using a fine mesh strainer.
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Knife and cutting board (for garnish)
Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
Cocktail
Serving:
Serves 1
Nutrition
The Lemon Drop Cocktail is a revitalizing drink with a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade lemon drop cocktail with savory snacks like cheese and crackers, as they balance the drink’s tangy sweetness perfectly. For a dessert option, I go for light, sweet treats like lemon bars or shortbread cookies to complement the citrus flavor. Either way, you can’t go wrong with these simple pairings!
Savory Snacks
Pairing a zesty lemon drop cocktail with the right savory snacks can really amp up the experience, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. Crispy Parmesan crisps add a salty crunch that balances the drink’s tang, while garlicky hummus with warm pita keeps things light. Spiced nuts, like rosemary almonds, bring warmth without overpowering the citrus. For something heartier, try mini bacon-wrapped dates—their smoky sweetness plays off the cocktail’s brightness. Even simple olives or a sharp cheddar cheese board work wonders. Each bite should complement, not compete, letting the lemon drop shine. Trust me, these combos are game-changers.
Sweet Treats
While savory snacks are a hit with a lemon drop cocktail, let’s not forget how sweet treats can take it to the next level. I love pairing this zesty drink with something like lemon bars—they bring out the citrusy notes perfectly. Mini cheesecakes or vanilla shortbread cookies also work wonders, adding a creamy or buttery balance. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve fresh berries with a light dusting of powdered sugar—they’re invigorating and not too heavy. Honestly, even a simple plate of soft, sugary meringues can make the whole experience feel special. Sweet and tart? It’s a match made in cocktail heaven!
