Are you looking to add some zesty and refreshing flavors to your next party? Look no further than the classic Lemon Drop shot! This easy-to-make recipe will surely be a hit when serving guests and you can customize to suit taste and preference.
You can whip up a batch of these tangy shots with just a few simple ingredients in no time. So why settle for boring drinks when you can shake things up with this delicious and fun cocktail?
Let’s dive into the recipe and prepare to impress your guests with r bartending skills!
Table of Contents
What Is a Lemon Drop Shot
The exact origins of the Lemon Drop Shot are somewhat ambiguous, but it is widely believed to have originated in the United States during the 1970s or 1980s.
Some say it was created by Norman Jay Hobday, the founder of the famous San Francisco bar Henry Africa’s, while others claim that it was invented by a bartender named Peter Mertes at a bar in SoHo, New York City.
Regardless of its origins, the shot quickly became a hit and gained popularity nationwide.
This beloved cocktail drink has been a staple at parties and bars for many years. It’s a refreshing, tangy, and sweet concoction you can enjoy as shot or a cocktail.
The best part?
It is easy to make this at home!
Whether you’re looking to impress your friends at your next party or simply want to enjoy a refreshing drink on a warm day, this shot is the perfect choice.
What to put in a Lemon Drop Shot
A gall of shot typically contains vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Some variations may also include triple sec or other citrus liqueurs. The ingredients are typically combined in a cocktail shaker with ice and then strained into a shot glass.
The combination of these ingredients makes for a refreshing and easy-to-drink shot.
How To Make a Lemon Drop Shot
Here is the complete lemon drop shot recipe to help you earn praiseworthy comments at your house party.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Culinary items
- Shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Shot glasses
- Lemon zester
Directions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add 1 1/2 oz of vodka, 1/2 oz of triple sec, 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp of granulated sugar to the shaker.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty and the sugar has dissolved.
- Strain the mixture into a shot glass.
- Garnish the shot with a small amount of lemon zest.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh-squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled juice.
- To make the shot even sweeter, add a little more sugar to the mixture.
- If you don’t have a shaker, mix the ingredients with a large glass and a spoon.
- Chill the shot glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before making the shots for an extra-cold and refreshing experience.
- If you prefer a stronger shot, adjust the ratio of vodka to triple sec and lemon juice to your liking.
- Experiment with different types of vodka to find the one you like the most in this recipe.
Adding Variations to The Recipe
Here are some variations you can try with the classic Lemon Drop Shot recipe:
- Blueberry: Muddle a handful of fresh blueberries with the lemon juice before adding the vodka and triple sec. This will add a fruity twist to the classic recipe.
- Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cocktail shaker for a spicy kick. You can also rim the shot glass with salt and cayenne pepper.
- Lavender: Add a teaspoon of lavender syrup to the cocktail shaker and other ingredients. Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender for a floral and aromatic twist.
- Coconut: Add a tablespoon of coconut cream to the cocktail shaker before shaking. Rim the shot glass with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Strawberry Basil: Muddle a few fresh strawberries and basil leaves with lemon juice before adding the other ingredients. This variation is perfect for a summer party.
- Chocolate: Add a tablespoon of chocolate liqueur to the cocktail shaker and other ingredients. Rim the shot glass with cocoa powder for a decadent twist.
- Green Tea: Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down before adding it to the cocktail shaker. This variation is perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and refreshing taste.
Remember, the possibilities for variations are endless. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your unique Lemon Drop Shot recipe.
How To Serve?
Lemon drop shots are typically served chilled and in shot glasses. To serve, simply pour the chilled mixture into shot glasses, rimmed with sugar or not, and garnish with a slice or a twist of lemon peel.
It’s a good idea to keep the shot glasses in the fridge or freezer beforehand to ensure they are nice and cold. For added presentation, you can also use lemon wedges as a garnish by cutting a small slit in the flesh and resting them on the rim of the shot glass.
When serving to a large group, you can make a pitcher of the lemon drop mixture and pour it into shot glasses as needed. Just be sure to keep the pitcher chilled until ready to serve.
What To Serve With?
The shot can be paired with various small bites and appetizers that complement its sweet and tart flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Shrimp cocktail: The tangy citrus flavor of the shot pairs perfectly with the briny flavor of fresh shrimp.
- Cheese and crackers: The creamy and salty flavors of cheese and crackers help balance the shot’s sweetness.
- Fresh fruit: Serve a platter of fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple to complement the fruity flavors in the shot.
- Charcuterie board: A charcuterie board featuring cured meats, cheeses, and olives perfectly complements the zesty flavors of the shot.
- Miniature desserts: Serve bite-sized desserts like lemon bars, mini cheesecakes, or fruit tarts to provide a sweet finish to the party.
How Does Is Taste Like?
A well-made lemon drop shot has a sweet and sour taste, with a burst of lemon flavor that is refreshing and satisfying. The combination of sweet and sour flavors with the tangy taste of lemon makes it a popular choice among those who prefer cocktails with a balanced taste.
The sugar on the glass’s rim adds sweetness to the drink, while the vodka provides a slight kick. Overall, it is a delicious and enjoyable drink, perfect for any party or gathering.
Nutritional Facts
The nutrition facts for a Lemon Drop Shot will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size. Here is a general breakdown of the approximate nutritional information for one serving of a standard Shot made with the recipe described:
- Calories: 110
- Total fat: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 0g
How To Store Lemon Drop Shot?
While it’s always best to serve the shot fresh, there may be times when you need to prepare it ahead of time. In such cases, store the shot in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours.
Before serving, shake the shot well to mix any settled ingredients. Remember not to freeze the shot, as it can alter the flavor and texture. Following these simple tips, you can ensure your lemon drop shots remain fresh and delicious even when prepared in advance.
Can You Prepare Lemon Drop Shot Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare lemon drop shots ahead of time. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the ingredients: Prepare the mixture according to the recipe instructions.
- Store in an airtight container: Once the mixture is ready, pour it into an airtight container and seal it tightly.
- Refrigerate: Store the container until ready to serve. It’s best to consume the shot within 24 hours of preparation.
- Shake well before serving: Shake the container well to mix any settled ingredients.
The shot is best served fresh and immediately! If you’re making a large batch for a party or event, it’s best to make it just before the event starts or prepare it a few hours in advance.
Following these steps, you can enjoy a perfectly chilled and delicious shot even if you prepare it beforehand.
Lemon Drop shot Tipsy Bartender
Our all time favorite YouTuber Tipsy Bartender shared an authentic lemon drop shot recipe. The tutorial below make the process easier to follow, so you have to check it out:
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Drop Shot is a delicious and refreshing cocktail perfect for any party or get-together. With its tangy and sweet taste, it is sure to please any palate.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some of the variations, follow the storage tips to ensure that your shots stay fresh and delicious.
So, next time you are hosting a party or want to enjoy a fun and easy cocktail, give the Lemon Drop Shot a try! Cheers!
