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Classic Lemon Drop Martini Recipe

Close-up of a bright yellow lemon drop cocktail in a coupe glass with a sparkling sugar rim.

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Make a bright, zesty Lemon Drop Martini. This recipe balances tart lemon with smooth vodka and a sweet, sugared rim for a refreshing cocktail.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz Vodka
  • 1 oz Fresh lemon juice
  • 0.75 oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
  • 0.75 oz Simple Syrup (or to taste)
  • Lemon wedge, for garnish
  • Granulated sugar, for rim

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glass: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a chilled martini glass. Roll the rim in granulated sugar. Set the glass aside.
  2. Combine ingredients: Add vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake well: Close the shaker and shake hard until the outside is very cold, about 15 to 20 seconds. This chills and slightly dilutes the drink properly.
  4. Strain: Double strain the mixture into the prepared, sugar-rimmed martini glass.
  5. Garnish: Garnish with a fresh lemon twist or wedge. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, make your own simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water and heating until the sugar dissolves. Cool completely before use.
  • Adjust the simple syrup amount based on how tart your lemons are and your preference for sweetness.
  • If you prefer a Lemon Drop Shot, use the same ingredients but reduce the volume to 1 ounce total liquid per shot and serve in a shot glass without shaking as long.

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