A Lemon Drop Martini is a bright, elegant cocktail made with vodka, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness. It has a silky smooth texture with a crisp citrus finish, balancing tart and sweet beautifully. This is an easy recipe that takes only minutes to prepare, making it perfect for entertaining or a relaxing evening drink. Total time is around 5 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
For the Cocktail
- 50ml vodka
- 25ml fresh lemon juice
- 20ml simple syrup
- Ice cubes
For the Glass
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- 1 lemon wedge
- Lemon twist, to garnish
How to Make Lemon Drop Martini Recipe
- Prepare the glass: Rub the rim of a chilled martini glass with a lemon wedge. Dip the rim into caster sugar so it coats evenly.
- Fill the shaker: Add a generous handful of ice cubes to a cocktail shaker.
- Add the ingredients: Pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well: Secure the lid and shake hard for 15 to 20 seconds until the outside feels icy cold.
- Strain and serve: Strain into the prepared martini glass for a smooth finish.
- Garnish: Add a lemon twist on top and serve immediately while perfectly chilled.
Tips
How do I make it less sharp?
Add an extra 5ml simple syrup and shake again. This softens the lemon edge nicely.
Why use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh juice gives a cleaner, brighter flavour than bottled juice and makes a noticeable difference.
How do I get the drink properly cold?
Use plenty of ice and shake vigorously. Chilling the glass beforehand also helps.
Can I make it stronger?
Increase the vodka slightly, but keep the lemon and sweetness balanced.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with salted nuts or olives.
- Pair with seafood starters.
- Enjoy alongside light desserts.
- Offer as a welcome drink at parties.
Storage
Room Temperature
This cocktail should be served immediately and not left standing for long.
Refrigerator
You can mix the liquid ingredients in advance and chill for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice before serving.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as it can dull the fresh citrus flavour.
Nutrition
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg
These values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
What alcohol is best for a lemon drop martini?
A good quality plain vodka is the classic choice because it gives a clean flavour that lets the lemon shine.
Can I make a lemon drop martini without simple syrup?
Yes, you can use sugar syrup, agave syrup or a little caster sugar shaken well with the drink.
Should a lemon drop martini be shaken or stirred?
It should be shaken with ice to chill it thoroughly and create the smooth texture this cocktail is known for.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes, multiply the ingredients, chill the mixture in advance, then shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Lemon Drop Martini Recipe
Course: DrinksCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy1
cocktail5
minutes5
minutes185
kcalA crisp and refreshing lemon drop martini made with vodka, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Bright, smooth and perfect for parties or a stylish evening drink.
Ingredients
50ml vodka
25ml fresh lemon juice
20ml simple syrup
Ice cubes
Caster sugar, for rim
Lemon wedge
Lemon twist, to garnish
Directions
- Rub the rim of a martini glass with a lemon wedge and dip into caster sugar.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavour.
- Chill the glass beforehand for a sharper finish.
- Adjust syrup to taste if you prefer sweeter cocktails.
