Lemon Drop Martini 

By Lidey Heuck

Published Dec. 19, 2023

Lemon Drop Martini 
Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.
Total Time
10 minutes
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Rating
5(163)
Comments
Read comments

Named for the old-fashioned hard candy of the same name, this lemony twist on a classic martini packs a refreshing sweet and sour punch. Vodka and freshly squeezed lemon juice give the drink its tart edge, and a little simple syrup and the orange liqueur Cointreau add sweetness for a well-balanced drink. Served in a chilled martini glass with a lightly sugared rim, the lemon drop makes a festive holiday cocktail.

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Ingredients

Yield:1 drink
  • 1tablespoon granulated sugar, for rimming the glass
  • 2ounces vodka
  • 1ounce lemon juice
  • ½ounce Cointreau or triple sec
  • ½ounce simple syrup
  • Lemon twist, for serving
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (1 servings)

268 calories; 0 grams fat; 0 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 0 grams monounsaturated fat; 0 grams polyunsaturated fat; 30 grams carbohydrates; 0 grams dietary fiber; 28 grams sugars; 0 grams protein; 10 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Place the sugar on a small plate. Wet the rim of a martini glass with a wet paper towel or the cut side of a lemon. Invert the glass and press the rim onto the plate with sugar until coated; re-invert and set aside on the counter, or place the glass in the freezer to chill while you make the drink, if desired.

  2. Step 2

    Fill a cocktail shaker ⅔ full with ice. Add the vodka, lemon juice, Cointreau and simple syrup. Place the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Ratings

5 out of 5
163 user ratings
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Comments

Mr. Baldymsn

Try eliminating the simple syrup for a tarter taste.

AnitaD

I put a teaspoon of lemon zest in the sugar I use for the rim. Otherwise, I follow the recipe as is and it's very good.

Cocktailnewb

One could read the recipe as "parts" right? Or do people use a scale to measure?!

Marcus

@Cocktailnewb Late comment here... yes, you could certainly make the recipe substituting "parts" for "ounces." (Note also that the recipe calls for *liquid* ounces. An angled shot glass or angled small measuring cup is very handy for mixology!)

John V

Triple Sec is basically simple syrup with a small amount of alcohol and some orange flavor. I always use Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Same for a margarita.

Karen Green

Agree that simple syrup is nonoptimal. Cointreau adds sweetness and flavor. Enough.

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