Lively and light, this cocktail layers crisp apple and bright lemon into a perfectly chilled, lip-smacking pour.
Equipment
To create an Apple Lemon Drop cocktail, gather the following tools:
- Cocktail shaker: Needs to be sturdy with a tight-fitting lid.
- Strainer: Required to remove ice from the mixed drink.
- Measuring jigger: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Glass: A martini or cocktail glass works best.
- Citrus juicer: Optional but helps extract lemon juice more efficiently.
- Saucer: For rimming the glass with sugar.
Ingredients
For a balanced and flavorful Apple Lemon Drop, you will need these ingredients:
- 1.5 oz apple vodka
- 0.5 oz sour apple schnapps
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Splash of lemonade
- Sugar for rimming the glass
- Apple slice for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Apple Lemon Drop cocktail:
- Rim the glass with sugar. Use lemon juice to moisten the rim.
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice.
- Pour in the vodka, sour apple schnapps, lemon juice, simple syrup, and lemonade.
- Shake vigorously until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into the sugar-rimmed glass.
- Garnish with an apple slice if you like.
Tasting Notes
An Apple Lemon Drop is both invigorating and sweet. Apple vodka brings a crisp freshness, while sour apple schnapps adds depth. The combination of lemon juice and simple syrup offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with a soft edge from the sugar rim. Each sip leaves a refreshing note with an aromatic finish.
Similar Cocktails
Expand your cocktail repertoire with these related drinks:
- Lemon Drop Martini: A vodka cocktail with a strong lemon base.
- Appletini: Features vodka and apple schnapps with a sweeter profile.
- Cosmopolitan: Vodka-based with cranberry juice and a hint of lime.
Each offers a slight twist on the original. They’re worth trying for citrus enthusiasts.
History
The Lemon Drop cocktail dates back to the 1970s and originated in San Francisco. Aiming to recreate the balance of a lemon candy, it soon gained popularity. The Apple Lemon Drop is a modern twist, incorporating apple flavors to add complexity. Over time, it has become a favorite for those who appreciate fruity cocktails with a citrus zing.
Quick Pro Tips
- Chill your glass beforehand for a colder drink.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the flavor significantly.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup.
- Use quality vodka to ensure a smooth finish.
- A splash of club soda can lighten the cocktail if desired.
When To Serve
The Apple Lemon Drop is versatile. Serve it at summer barbecues, afternoon parties, or as a pre-dinner aperitif. It shines during holidays with its festive flavors. This cocktail is perfect for entertaining due to its broad appeal and refreshing character.
