This lemon drop shot is a delicious and refreshing shot recipe with just the right sweetness, tartness, and smoothness. Similar to my lemon drop martini, this cocktail is made with a simple combination of lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup!
Over the years, I’ve poured my creativity into crafting and perfecting an array of shots. From timeless classics to bold, modern twists, I’ve explored endless combinations to find the most exciting and flavorful sips. Each recipe is designed to bring a little charm to any gathering.
Whenever I have a lemon drop shot, I wonder why I don’t make them more often! They are so good and easy to make. After testing and shaking up several versions, I’ve created the perfect lemon drop shot.
Serve them at your next party, birthday party, or event, or just for a fun happy hour. Pair them with a delicious lemon treat like my lemon bars or shortbread lemon cookies.
If you’re looking for more easy party shot recipes, try my Gummy Bear shots, Jolly Rancher shots, or birthday cake shots!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. It’s super easy to make, with just three simple ingredients.
2. Its light and the refreshing lemon flavor is perfect for summer sipping.
3. It has just the right balance of sweetness and tartness.
4. This recipe makes 4 perfect shots at one time.
Lemon Drop Ingredients
Fresh Lemon Juice: Use only fresh squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Vodka: Pick a good quality vodka when making shots.
Simple Syrup: This is made by simmering equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan. Follow our simple syrup guide for making fun flavors.
Ice: Used in the cocktail shaker to dilute and mix the ingredients.
Sugar: The shot glasses are rimmed in sugar, giving the shot a sweet and delicious flavor. It compliments the lemon, and we highly recommend adding some lemon zest to the sugar, too!
How to Make a Lemon Drop Shot
Step 1: Rim a shot glass with a lemon wedge and dip it in sugar to coat the rim.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, add:
- Vodka
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Step 3: Strain the mixture into the sugar-rimmed shot glass.
Step 4: Garnish with a small lemon wedge or twist, if desired.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Make It for a Crowd: Double or triple the ingredients, mixing in batches for the best flavor. Alternatively, use a pitcher and pour it into pre-prepared, sugar-rimmed shot glasses for quick and easy serving.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a huge difference in flavor – avoid bottled juice for the best results.
Add Extra Lemon Flavor: Muddle lemon slices or zest in the shaker to enhance the citrusy goodness.
Experiment with Vodka: Use flavored or citrus vodka for a more complex shot.
Try a Fruity Twist: Add muddled blueberries or strawberries for a fun, fruity variation.
Sweeten Your Way: Use flavored simple syrups like rosemary, lavender, or honey, or keep it simple by adding real sugar directly to the shaker. Adjust sweetness to taste, as some lemons are more tart than others.
Chill Your Shot Glasses: Place shot glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before serving for a crisp, refreshing touch.
Shake Vigorously: Shaking well with ice ensures a frothy, well-mixed, and ice-cold shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Lemon Drop Shot has a refreshing balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the zing of fresh lemon juice complemented by the smooth kick of vodka. The sugar rim adds a touch of sweetness, making it taste like a liquid version of a lemon drop candy.
The key to a perfect Lemon Drop Shot is using freshly squeezed lemon juice, a smooth vodka, and a properly balanced sweetness from sugar or simple syrup. Shake vigorously with ice to chill and mix the ingredients well, and serve in a chilled, sugar-rimmed shot glass for the best presentation and taste.
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, swap the vodka with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip Grove 42. Use the same fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a refreshing and tart mocktail shot.
More Delicious Shot Recipes
If you’re looking for more shot recipes, we have you covered! Check out any of these fun shots below:
Also, check out all of our delicious lemon recipes too!
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Lemon Drop Shot
Ingredients
- 4 ounces lemon juice, fresh-squeezed
- 5 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces simple syrup
- 1/4 cup sugar, for rimming the shot glass
- 2 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Rim the shot glasses with sugar and lemon zest. Simply rub the lemon around the edge and dip the glass into the sugar.
- Squeeze the lemon juice.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup.
- Shake for 20 seconds.
- Strain into the shot glasses.
- Serve with a lemon slice and fresh mint sprigs.
