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This lemon drop shot is light, refreshing, and hits that perfect sweet-tart balance I love. Made with just lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup, it’s like a mini version of my go-to lemon drop martini!
If you’re looking for more easy party shot recipes, try my Gummy Bear shots, Jolly Rancher shots, or birthday cake shots!
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Pin ItThe Easiest Lemon Drop Shot Recipe
I’ve made a lot of party shots over the years, and this lemon drop is one of my forever faves. It’s bright, easy, and always a hit. Just three ingredients, the perfect sweet-tart balance, and makes four shots – perfect for sharing!
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 & Variations
Make it for a crowd: Just double or triple the recipe and use a pitcher to pour into sugar-rimmed shot glasses—so easy for parties!
Use fresh lemon juice: It makes all the difference—skip the bottled stuff.
Chill your shot glasses: Pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes for an extra-refreshing sip.
Shake it like you mean it: A vigorous shake creates that perfect frothy, icy finish.
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, I have you covered! Check out any of these fun shots below:
Also, check out all of my delicious lemon recipes too!
If you make this shot, tag me @sugarandcharm—I LOVE seeing your gatherings and recreations!
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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.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice—bottled won’t give the same bright flavor.
- For a twist, try citrus vodka or even gin instead of plain vodka.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or mint for a charming touch.
- Serve in chilled shot glasses or ice shot molds to keep them crisp.
- Easily double the recipe for a crowd or pre-measure ingredients in a shaker and chill until ready to shake and serve.
- Want a non-alcoholic version? Swap vodka for a zero-proof spirit like Seedlip.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
