A fruity and refreshing way to end the day or start the weekend, the Strawberry Lemon Drop cocktail is a must-try tipple.
They were an elegant and fun-loving couple. World travelers, always flying first class and in the most opulent cabins on every cruise they took. Private islands, penthouses… Wherever they went, they made it rain with big bills, and every waiter, doorman and concierge made sure they were taken care of. Which in turn meant that they would be taken care of.
I was a simple overnight bellboy when I first met them, often seeing them leave the fancy steakhouse that was in the hotel’s lobby. The Maserati that the valet would deliver to them not only caught the eye but damaged the hearing as well, as it roared away into the bright lights of a big city night. I used to wonder what they did for work, if they did anything at all outside of living their proverbial “best lives”. And what were their favorite cocktails, too, I’d muse? You’d think an elegant and obviously cultured duo would be sipping on Gin Martinis, at the very least.
But one night, I found myself passing through the hotel’s cigar lounge, where this couple was seated alone. They puffed on Robustos and had bright red libations in front of them, and from the looks on their faces, it probably wasn’t their first round. I quietly asked our bartender what they were drinking, and was surprised to hear that every time they were here, which was often, they’d always drink Strawberry Lemon Drops, made with vodka, lemon juice and triple sec, along with fresh strawberry purée.
I’m sure there’s a story behind their shared love of that cocktail. But it’s also a secret they’ll always keep, at least from me. And I love the romantic mystery in that.
What Is The Best Vodka To Use In A Strawberry Lemon Drop?
Because this cocktail features sugar, lemon juice, strawberry purée and the citrus notes of triple sec, my choice would be an unflavored vodka for the base. Either a wheat or potato-distilled variety will bring the necessary heat and bite on the finish of each sweet and tangy sip. You can go for a strawberry-infused spirit if you’d like a sweeter and more intense tasting experience.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for the rim
- 3 fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce triple sec
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup optional
- Strawberry slice and lemon wedge to garnish, optional
Instructions
- Place the granulated sugar on a small plate. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a martini or coupe glass and dip the rim into the sugar. Set aside.
- Remove the hulls from the strawberries and slice them. Place the slices in a small bowl. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the juice, then strain through a fine mesh sieve. Discard the solids.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the strawberry purée, vodka, lemon juice, triple sec, simple syrup (if using), and a handful of ice cubes. Shake well.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass. Garnish with a strawberry slice and a lemon wedge if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition
FAQs & Tips
WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?
Line the rim of a martini glass or coupe with sugar, after chilling it in your freezer for up to 30 minutes. Garnish with a strawberry and lemon wedge before you start sipping.
CAN YOU STORE THE STRAWBERRY LEMON DROP?
No. For this style of Lemon Drop cocktail, I’m going to recommend that you prepare it on a drink-by-drink basis and enjoy each one right away.
WHAT IS AN ALTERNATIVE TO MUDDLING STRAWBERRIES FOR THIS RECIPE?
If you don’t want to go through the trouble of muddling the strawberries the way our recipe suggests, you can purchase premade purée at your local liquor or grocery stores, which will surely have many different brands to choose from.
Other Lemon Drop Drinks Worth Trying
Feeling a little sour this evening, but in a good way? Craving that tangy zip from some fresh citrus? Sure, you can always just bite down on a lemon or a lime, or even just buy a box of Lemonheads candy, but it’s a cocktail that you’re in the mood for. And here at Twist & Toast, we have a few Lemon Drop tipples you can make for yourself.
- Raspberry Lemon Drop – Sharp and fruity, this red elixir is a great way to unwind.
- Lemon Drop Shot – These shooters will throttle up the night for certain.
- Limoncello Lemon Drop – A perfect after-dinner treat, best when served icy cold.
- Lemon Drop Martini – A burst of citrusy sour decadence, and an unforgettable cocktail.
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