The lemon drop shot is a bright, zesty vodka-based shooter that has become a bar favorite for good reason. Originating in the 1970s in California, this citrusy drink was inspired by the classic lemon drop candy — sweet, sour, and instantly refreshing.
Loved for its sharp yet smooth flavor, it’s the perfect party starter. The sugar-rimmed glass, the puckering citrus punch, and the smooth vodka kick make this shot a crowd-pleaser across the globe.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz vodka (preferably citrus-flavored)
- ¾ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
- Ice cubes
- Granulated sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon wedge (for garnish and rimming)
Optional substitutions:
- Vodka: Use gin for a botanical twist or a non-alcoholic spirit for a mocktail version.
- Simple syrup: Swap with agave syrup or honey (thin with water).
- Lemon juice: Bottled works, but fresh is best for zing.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Chill your shot glass
Place your shot glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Prep the rim
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the edge into a plate of granulated sugar for a sweet, sparkly touch.
- Mix the shot
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
Add a handful of ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
- Strain and pour
Strain the mix into your prepared shot glass.
- Garnish & serve
Optional: Add a thin lemon slice or twist for flair. Serve immediately while chilled.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Using bottled lemon juice can dull the flavor.
- Over-shaking can dilute the shot too much.
- Skipping the sugar rim removes a key part of the sweet-sour balance.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
- Use a citrus squeezer to extract every drop of fresh lemon juice without the seeds.
- Chill your ingredients beforehand for an extra smooth shot.
- Double strain for a cleaner presentation (no pulp or shards of ice).
- Want to make a batch? Use a pitcher to scale up the ingredients for a party.
Variations and Customizations
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit in your simple syrup.
- Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or basil in the shaker.
- Spicy Kick: Muddle a slice of jalapeño before shaking for a spicy citrus shot.
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy lemon drop shooter.
- Gluten-Free: Most vodkas are gluten-free, but double-check the label.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a frosted shot glass with a lemon wedge on the side.
- Pair with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, mini sliders, or goat cheese crostini.
- Goes great with sparkling water, club soda, or Prosecco as a chaser.
Nutritional Information (Per Shot Approx.)
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Alcohol by volume (ABV): ~20%
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice before serving.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though flavor is best when fresh.
Can I turn this into a full cocktail?
Absolutely! Just double the measurements and serve in a martini glass with a twist of lemon.
Can I skip the sugar rim?
You can, but it balances the sourness. A flavored sugar rim (like vanilla sugar) adds a nice twist.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tangy treat, this lemon drop shot recipe is a winner. It’s easy, quick, and always gets the crowd talking. Try customizing it to your taste, and don’t forget to snap a pic of your creation!
