If you’re looking for a sweet and sour drink that packs a punch, the Lemon Drop Shot is your answer. This refreshing shot tastes like a lemon drop candy. The primary components are vodka, lemon juice, and sugar. This shot combines sweet and sour elements, making it a refreshing party drink.
You’ll need:
- Vodka
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Sugar
- Lemon wedges
The Lemon Drop Shot is easy to make and sure to impress. The key to a great shot is balancing the sweet and sour flavors.
Equipment
To make a perfect Lemon Drop Shot, you’ll need a few essential items. These tools ensure the drink is well-prepared and enjoyable.
Cocktail Shaker
A cocktail shaker is necessary to mix the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It helps blend the ingredients smoothly and chills the drink.
Shot Glasses
You’ll require shot glasses to serve the Lemon Drop Shots. Look for ones with sturdy bases.
Measuring Tools
Precision is key. Use a jigger or measuring cup for exact amounts of ingredients.
Citrus Juicer
A citrus juicer helps extract fresh lemon juice efficiently, ensuring maximum flavor.
Small Plate and Spoon
A small plate is useful for holding sugar to rim the shot glasses. A spoon aids in sprinkling sugar on the lemons.
Knife and Cutting Board
You need a knife and cutting board to cut lemon wedges. These wedges are used for garnishing and enhancing the drink’s taste.
Ice
Ice is necessary for chilling the mixture. Ensure you have enough to fill the cocktail shaker.
Napkins and Towels
Keep napkins or kitchen towels handy for spills and clean-up.
This equipment ensures your Lemon Drop Shots are both delicious and beautifully presented.
Ingredients
To make a Lemon Drop Shot, you will need a few simple ingredients.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Sugar for rimming the glass
- Lemon wedges
Properly measure each ingredient to ensure consistent flavor. Do not overly shake the cocktail mixer. The right balance enhances the taste.
Optional Additions:
- Raspberry puree (for variation)
Make sure all ingredients are chilled. Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor. Store-bought lemon juice can also be used. Test different variations to find your preferred taste.
Check your ingredient quality. Fresh lemons and high-quality vodka make a difference. Experiment with sugar rim thickness. Enjoy your perfect Lemon Drop Shot!
Instructions
To make a perfect Lemon Drop Shot, follow these steps:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 2 tsp sugar
- Lemon wedges
Rim the Shot Glasses:
- Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of the shot glasses.
- Dip the rims into sugar to coat them evenly.
Mix the Ingredients:
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
Shake Vigorously:
- Seal the shaker.
- Shake for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into the prepared shot glasses.
- Garnish each shot with a sugared lemon wedge.
Enjoy your Lemon Drop Shot immediately for the best flavor.
Tasting Notes
The Lemon Drop Shot offers a vibrant and tangy experience. The first sip greets you with a strong lemon flavor. This is balanced by a hint of sweetness.
You’ll notice these key ingredients:
- 1 oz Vodka (preferably citrus vodka)
- ½ oz Fresh lemon juice
- Generous splash of Simple syrup
- Sugar for rimming
The vodka adds a smooth, yet slightly sharp undertone. Fresh lemon juice provides a refreshing tartness. The simple syrup enhances the cocktail with a touch of sweetness.
The sugar-rimmed glass adds a pleasant crunch. It contrasts nicely with the liquid inside. This combination results in a perfect balance of sour and sweet.
As you savor the shot, the lemon flavor lingers. The sweetness smooths out the tartness, ensuring a balanced aftertaste. You may also detect subtle citrus notes from the vodka.
When garnished with a sugared lemon wedge, the aroma is enticing. The taste becomes even more enjoyable. The simple ingredients combine artfully, making each sip delightful.
Every component works together harmoniously. This ensures a consistent experience from start to finish. The Lemon Drop Shot stands out as a refreshing and flavorful choice.
Similar Cocktails
When exploring cocktails similar to the Lemon Drop Shot, you’ll find a variety of citrus-based drinks. These cocktails are characterized by their tangy and refreshing flavors.
Lemon Drop Martini
The Lemon Drop Martini is close to the Lemon Drop Shot. This drink combines the following ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz triple sec or Cointreau
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
Rim a chilled martini glass with lemon sugar for added zest.
Honey Trap Cocktail
The Honey Trap cocktail offers a different take with ginger and honey. Here’s what it includes:
- 1.5 oz ginger-infused vodka
- 0.75 oz honey syrup
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
Shake these ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
French 75
The French 75 introduces a sparkling twist. Combining gin with lemon juice, the key ingredients are:
- 1 oz gin
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Champagne or sparkling wine
Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then top with champagne.
Aviation
The Aviation provides a more complex flavor palette. Using gin, this recipe includes:
- 2 oz gin
- 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur
- 0.25 oz crème de violette
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.
Sidecar
The Sidecar offers a balance of sweet and sour. You’ll need:
- 2 oz cognac
- 0.75 oz triple sec
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
Combine and shake with ice, then strain into a sugar-rimmed glass.
These similar cocktails offer varied yet delightful experiences for fans of citrusy drinks like the Lemon Drop Shot.
History
The Lemon Drop Shot emerged from the classic Lemon Drop Martini. This cocktail surfaced in the 1970s. It was a time of change for bar culture.
The Martini was created at San Francisco’s Henry Africa bar. Known as the first ‘fern bar’, it catered to singles. The Lemon Drop Martini quickly gained popularity.
The Lemon Drop Shot evolved from this Martini. Bartenders experimented with ingredients for a quicker, more potent drink. This shot includes:
- Vodka
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Sugared rim
Lemon Drop Shots became a popular party drink. Their tangy flavor paired with a sweet rim made them a favorite. They remain a staple in many bars today.
Quick Pro Tips
When making a Lemon Drop Shot, always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Customizing Options:
- Blueberry Twist: Muddle blueberries in the shaker for a fruity kick.
- Spicy Variation: Add jalapeño slices for a heat sensation.
Use a good-quality vodka. Cheap vodka can affect the taste negatively.
Serving Tips:
- Rim each glass with sugar for added sweetness.
- Serve each shot with a lemon wedge dipped in sugar.
Pour evenly into shot glasses. Enjoy your Lemon Drop Shot at your next gathering!
When To Serve
A Lemon Drop Shot is perfect for various occasions, adding a burst of flavor to your gatherings.
You can serve it at birthday parties. The sweet and tangy taste makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Use it to kick off a bachelorette party. Start the evening with a fun and vibrant drink.
Consider serving it during summer barbecues. The refreshing lemon flavor complements grilled dishes.
Include it in your menu for New Year’s Eve. Toast to the new year with a delicious shot.
Other suitable occasions include:
- Girls’ night out: Enjoy this fun shot with friends.
- House parties: Easy to make and share.
- Holiday celebrations: A festive touch to your events.
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