lemon drop shot recipe
The Best lemon drop shot recipe
This recipe is simple, which is exactly why I keep coming back to it. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just fresh lemons, a little sugar, and your choice of vodka (or skip it if you’re not drinking). It’s the kind of thing you can whip up in five minutes, and it always feels special, even if you’re just serving it in small glasses on the back porch. My husband jokes that it’s our “official summer drink,” but honestly, we make them year-round. There’s never a bad time for a little zing in your glass.

Lemon Drop Shot
A zesty and refreshing vodka-based shot with a sweet and sour lemon flavor. Perfect for parties or a quick citrusy pick-me-up, this shot is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup vodka (citrus-flavored preferred)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- ¼ cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for rimming)
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Prepare the shot glasses by moistening the rims with a lemon wedge and dipping them into granulated sugar to coat. Set aside. -
2
In a mixing bowl, combine vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir well until fully mixed. -
3
Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness by adding more simple syrup if needed. -
4
Pour the lemon drop mixture into the prepared shot glasses, filling each about ¾ full. -
5
Garnish each shot with a small lemon wedge on the rim or serve alongside for squeezing. -
6
Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly!
🔧Equipment
- Shot glasses
- Small plate
- Mixing bowl
- Lemon juicer or reamer
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Lemon Drop Shot Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Drop Shot
1. What ingredients do I need to make a lemon drop shot?
A classic lemon drop shot requires just a few simple ingredients: 1 oz (30ml) of citrus vodka, ½ oz (15ml) of triple sec, ½ oz (15ml) of fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz (15ml) of simple syrup. You’ll also need sugar for rimming the glass and a lemon wedge for garnish.
2. How do I properly rim the glass with sugar?
To rim the glass, start by rubbing a lemon wedge around the edge of the shot glass to moisten it. Then, dip the rim into a small plate of sugar, twisting it slightly to ensure an even coating. Let it dry for a few seconds before pouring in the shot.
3. Can I make a lemon drop shot without vodka?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the vodka with lemon-flavored sparkling water or a non-alcoholic citrus spirit. The taste will be slightly different, but it’ll still be refreshing and tangy.
4. What’s the best way to serve a lemon drop shot?
For the best experience, serve the lemon drop shot ice-cold. Chill the vodka and other ingredients beforehand, and use a sugar-rimmed shot glass. Some people also like to serve it with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Can I batch-make lemon drop shots for a party?
Absolutely! To make a large batch, mix 1 part triple sec, 1 part fresh lemon juice, 1 part simple syrup, and 2 parts citrus vodka in a pitcher. Stir well, then chill until ready to serve. Pour into sugar-rimmed shot glasses just before serving.
