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This lemon drop shot is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, made with just three simple ingredients. It’s fresh, smooth, and one of the easiest party shots you can make at home. It’s 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!
Pin this now to find it later
Pin ItI’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 it makes four shots – perfect for sharing!
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect balance: The ratio of lemon juice to simple syrup delivers a classic sweet-tart flavor, similar to my lemon drop martini.
- Tastes like candy: It tastes just like a classic lemon drop candy, but in shot form.
- Quick to make: Ready in under 5 minutes.
- Great for parties: Easy to batch and serve.
Lemon Drop Shots Ingredients
Fresh Lemon Juice: Use only fresh squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Vodka: Choose a good-quality vodka for shots. Since there are only a few ingredients, the flavor really comes through.
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 with sugar, giving the shot a sweet, delicious flavor. It complements 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.
Eden’s Recipe Tips
Use fresh lemon juice only. It gives the shot a clean, bright flavor.
Chill your glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.
Shake longer than you think. This creates that smooth, icy texture.
Add lemon zest to the sugar rim for extra flavor.
Use a cocktail jigger to keep the ratios perfect every time.
Recipe Variations
Make it sparkling: Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version
Make it stronger: Add a little more vodka and reduce the syrup slightly
Try flavored vodka: Citrus or vanilla vodka adds a fun twist
Make it a martini: Turn this into a full cocktail like my lemon drop martini
How to Serve for a Party
For entertaining, I love making a big batch ahead of time.
- Mix everything in a pitcher and store in the fridge
- Rim glasses just before serving
- Pour into chilled shot glasses when guests arrive
This keeps you out of the kitchen and actually enjoying your party.
FAQs
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.
Yes! You can mix the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Shake with ice or pour over ice just before serving for the best results.
Yes. Replace the vodka with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip Grove 42 for a refreshing mocktail version.
More Shot Recipes
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!
My new Entertaining book is here! Order Now!
Lemon Drop Shot
Ingredients
- 5 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces lemon juice, fresh-squeezed
- 2 ounces simple syrup
- 1/4 cup sugar, for rimming the shot glass
- 2 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of 4 shot glasses, then dip each rim into 2–3 tablespoons sugar (optionally mixed with lemon zest) to coat.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 5 ounces of vodka, 4 ounces of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 2 ounces of simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker halfway with ice, then shake vigorously for about 20 seconds, until well-chilled and slightly frothy.
- Strain evenly into the prepared sugar-rimmed shot glasses, garnish with small lemon wedges or twists if desired, and serve immediately.
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.
