Lemon Drop Martini 

By Lidey Heuck

Published December 18, 2023

  • Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.
Media 1 of 1
Total Time
10 minutes
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Rating
5(240)
Comments
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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

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, for rimming the glass

  • 2 ounces vodka

  • 1 ounce lemon juice

  • ½ ounce Cointreau or triple sec

  • ½ ounce simple syrup

  • Lemon twist, for serving

Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving

30 grams carbs; 268 calories; 10 milligrams sodium; 28 grams sugar

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.

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Ratings

5 out of 5
240 user ratings
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Comments

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.

Mr. Baldymsn

Try eliminating the simple syrup for a tarter taste.

Christy

and/or use Meyer lemons

J

Made a variation with tequila instead of vodka and it turned out great, sort of a lemon margarita vibe.

CynS

I used a bit less simple syrup, but otherwise perfect. I'm not a cocktail maker and was told by a friend that this was the best drink she ever had.

R. Craton

We found the lemon flavor lacking until we lightly muddled a piece of lemon to get some of the oil from the skin. We were split on the Cointreau. I liked it better without and just the simple.

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