📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vodka
Alcohol 14%
Calories 193 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.1g
Carbohydrates 12.8g
Prep time 5 minutes
Imagine you’re at a party, and you want a drink that’s both sweet and zesty—enter the Lemon Drop cocktail. This drink is a tangy mix of vodka, lemon, sugar, and sometimes a touch of orange liqueur, which we’ll explore through its history, flavors, and the art of making it. So, let’s shake things up and learn how to make the perfect Lemon Drop together! ⬇️
History
The Lemon Drop was born in the 1970s at a bar in San Francisco. It was created as a sweeter, more accessible version of the vodka martini. This cocktail quickly became a hit, capturing the fun and freedom of that era.
- The name “Lemon Drop” is inspired by the candy of the same name.
- It was popularized by Henry’s Africa bar in San Francisco’s Marina district.
- The Lemon Drop mirrored the disco era’s love for sweet and colorful drinks.
The taste of a Lemon Drop?
A Lemon Drop tastes like a burst of sunshine in your mouth, with a sweet and sour kick. It’s like sipping on a liquified, boozy version of a lemon candy.
I personally love Lemon Drops because they bring a bright and cheerful twist to any gathering.
Interesting facts about Lemon Drop
- Lemon Drops are often served with a sugared rim to enhance their sweet-tart flavor balance.
- Some bartenders add a splash of triple sec to give the Lemon Drop an extra citrusy zing.
- Despite its candy-like taste, a Lemon Drop packs a punch with its vodka base.
Ingredients 📃
- Vodka: 2 oz (60ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/2 oz (15ml)
- Simple syrup: 1/2 oz (15ml)
- Triple sec (optional): 1/4 oz (7ml)
- Ice: for shaking
- Sugar: for the rim
A martini glass is the ideal vessel for a Lemon Drop, as it showcases the drink’s vibrant color and maintains the chill. An old-fashioned glass can serve as a more casual alternative, still supporting the sugar-rimmed aesthetic.
Recipe. How to make Lemon Drop 🍹
- Rim the edge of a martini glass with lemon juice and dip into sugar to coat.
- In a shaker, combine 2 oz of vodka, 1/2 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup over ice.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist if desired.
Lemon Drops are delightful but remember they do contain sugar and calories. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try swapping out the simple syrup for a natural sweetener like honey. Plus, lemons are packed with vitamin C!
Food Pairings
Certain foods have a magical way of enhancing the Lemon Drop’s bright flavor. Here are some pairing ideas that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Grilled Chicken
The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes of a Lemon Drop, creating a balanced and refreshing dining experience.
Seafood
Fresh seafood, especially shellfish, complements the sharp, clean taste of the Lemon Drop, making every sip and bite a ride through summer flavors.
Vanilla Desserts
Try a Lemon Drop with a vanilla-flavored dessert, like panna cotta or ice cream. The vanilla’s sweetness and the lemon’s tartness create a delightful contrast.
I find the balance of sweetness and tartness in Lemon Drops just irresistible—it’s like a little glass of happiness.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Chill your martini glass in advance to keep your Lemon Drop cold and refreshing.
- When rimming the glass with sugar, ensure it’s fine-grain to adhere well and provide the perfect sweet edge.
Now that you’ve got the classic Lemon Drop down, let’s look at how you can put your own spin on it and explore some delicious variations.
What you could change in Lemon Drop
- Vodka: Can be swapped with gin for a more herbal twist.
- Sugar rim: Try flavored sugars or a salt rim for a different taste experience.
- Lemon juice: Add a splash of other citrus juices for a multi-layered citrus profile.
Lemon Drop Variations
Raspberry Lemon Drop
- Ingredients: Add muddled fresh raspberries to the basic ingredients.
- Recipe: Strain to remove seeds after shaking for a smooth, fruity cocktail.
Spicy Lemon Drop
- Ingredients: Include a small slice of fresh jalapeño with the other ingredients.
- Recipe: Shake well and strain for a fiery kick in your sweet sip.
Herbal Lemon Drop
- Ingredients: Infuse simple syrup with thyme or basil for an aromatic twist.
- Recipe: Replace the plain syrup with your herbal infusion in the classic recipe.
For a non-alcoholic “Virgin Lemon Drop,” mix fresh lemon juice and simple syrup, then shake with ice. Serve in a sugar-rimmed glass for the full effect without the buzz.
Q&A
What’s the best vodka for a Lemon Drop?
A high-quality vodka with a clean taste is ideal for a Lemon Drop. You want something that’ll complement the lemon, not overpower it.
Can Lemon Drops be made in bulk?
Absolutely! Mix all the ingredients except ice in a pitcher, and shake individual servings with ice as needed.
Is there a way to make a Lemon Drop less sweet?
Sure, just reduce the simple syrup amount or use a more tart lemon variety to adjust the sweetness level.
How long can you keep a Lemon Drop in the fridge?
Without ice, a mixed Lemon Drop can stay fresh in the fridge for a couple of days—just shake it up with ice when you’re ready to serve.
Are there any variations of the Lemon Drop for winter?
Yes! Try adding a cinnamon stick or clove-infused syrup to give it a warm, winter holiday vibe.
Can I use bottled lemon juice for a Lemon Drop?
While fresh is best, you can use high-quality bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but the taste will differ.
