Why we love the lemon drop shot
This simple shot is a party favorite for a reason. It’s like a sweet, grown-up version of the classic sour candy. And, there’s nothing better than that sugared lemon chaser.
It’s almost like a little spiked lemonade shot.
Here’s what you’ll need to make it
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Equipment
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- Vodka – Regular vodka will work for this recipe, but you can vary it up and use flavored vodka for a little something special. Lemon or citron vodka would make it especially lemony.
- Lemon juice – Fresh squeezed is best, but bottled will work.
- Simple syrup – This is optional, but I like to add a tiny bit to make the shot more enjoyable.
- Sugar – This is for the sugared lemon slice chaser, and you can’t have a lemon drop shot without it. I prefer regular granulated sugar.
- Lemon slice
How to make a lemon drop
Sugar the lemons. Get your lemon slices ready by dipping them in sugar. I like to set up a plate for the sugar and a plate for my finished slices.
Shake the shot. Combine the lemon juice, vodka and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake until cold.
The colder the better for this shot, but you also don’t want to water down the shot by over shaking. Find that happy place.
Garnish and serve. Divide the liquid between your glasses – if you have time to chill them first, do it! Then, set a sugared lemon wedge on the rim before serving.
Everything you need to know about lemon drop cocktails
What are lemon drop shots made of?
Lemon drop shots contain vodka and lemon juice, although some recipes will add simple syrup to sweeten the shot. This shot is really all about the sugared lemon chaser, even if you add simple syrup you cannot skip the chaser.
Why is it called a lemon drop?
This simple shot is named after the classic lemon drop candy. A more modern variation of the candy you might know by the brand name of Lemonheads.
More vodka cocktails you will love
More citrus recipes you should try
- Blueberry lemon drop martini
- French gimlet
- Limoncello lemon margarita
- Blood orange hibiscus mezcalita
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 1/2 ounces lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- For garnish: lemon slice (granulated sugar)
Instructions
- Dip lemon slices in granulated sugar to coat. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, lemon juice and simple syrup. Shake until cold.
- Pour the liquid into two shot glasses.
- Serve each shot with a sugared lemon slice.
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