Lemon Drop Vodka Shot – Bright Citrus Party Classic
When you want a quick burst of sunshine in a glass, the Lemon Drop Vodka Shot delivers. Bright, smooth, and lightly sweet, this easy shooter blends chilled vodka, fresh lemon, and a sugared rim for the perfect party starter.
Background
Born in 1970s San Francisco, the Lemon Drop became an instant crowd favorite—simple, tart, and unapologetically fun.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – the clean, neutral base.
- Lemon juice – adds the tart citrus bite.
- Lemon wedge – for rim and garnish.
- Sugar – balances the acidity with a sweet crunch.
Equipment
- Shaker + ice
- Shot glass
Why It Works
Fast, bright, and balanced—each sip hits the sweet-tart spot that makes people grin.
Substitutions & Variations
- Try citrus-flavored vodka for more zip.
- Replace sugar with honey syrup for a rounder finish.
- Mix a mini-martini version by shaking and straining into a coupe.
Helpful Tips
- Always chill your vodka and glass for a crisp hit.
- Sugar rims stick best on a slightly wet glass edge.
- Pair with salty bar snacks to amplify flavor contrast.
Lemon Drop Shot Recipe
Type of Glass
Shot Glass
Ingredients
- 1 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
- 1 wedge Lemon
Directions
- Chill the vodka before starting.
- Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a shot glass, then dip the rim into sugar to coat.
- In a shaker with ice, combine vodka and lemon juice. Shake briefly until chilled.
- Strain into the prepared shot glass.
- Serve with the sugared lemon wedge to bite into after the shot for a sweet-tart finish.
Raise a glass to simple pleasures—the Lemon Drop Vodka Shot keeps the night bright, balanced, and effortless.
