There’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to brighten up any occasion, and our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop is just the ticket. This vibrant twist on the classic lemon drop combines juicy strawberries with zesty lemon for a perfectly balanced burst of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just want a quick, delicious drink to unwind, this recipe has you covered.
We love how simple it is to make with just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort. The natural sweetness of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the tart lemon juice, creating a cocktail that’s both crisp and satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes, making it a go-to for entertaining or a relaxing night in.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that balance sweetness and tartness effortlessly. Below, we break down each key component needed to bring this vibrant cocktail to life.
Strawberry Simple Syrup
Our homemade Strawberry Simple Syrup infuses natural fruity sweetness, elevating the classic lemon drop with juicy berry notes.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Lemon Drop Cocktail Mix
For the cocktail base, we mix zesty citrus and smooth vodka to create that iconic lemon drop flavor enhanced with a strawberry twist.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/2 cup (4 oz) | Strained, no pulp |
| Vodka | 1 cup (8 oz) | Regular or citrus-flavored |
| Triple sec | 1/4 cup (2 oz) | Optional but recommended |
Garnishes
Our finishing touch adds visual appeal and a burst of freshness that complements the drink’s vibrant profile.
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Lemon wedges or thin lemon twists
- Sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
By carefully measuring and preparing these ingredients, we ensure every sip of our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop delivers crisp, refreshing flavors with a delightful fruity twist.
Equipment Needed
To make our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop flawlessly, gathering the right equipment is essential. Each tool ensures that the cocktail blends perfectly, balances flavors, and presents beautifully.
Here is the list of must-have equipment for our recipe:
- Cocktail shaker
Used to mix the freshly squeezed lemon juice, vodka, and strawberry simple syrup thoroughly. A shaker helps chill and blend the ingredients evenly.
- Jigger
For precise measuring of liquids like vodka, lemon juice, and triple sec. Accuracy is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- Muddler
Required if we decide to muddle fresh strawberries for an extra fruity kick in the syrup or the drink itself.
- Fine mesh strainer
To strain out seeds or pulp from fresh lemon juice or strawberry syrup, ensuring a smooth, clean cocktail.
- Citrus juicer or reamer
Extracts maximum fresh lemon juice effortlessly, giving the cocktail its zesty brightness.
- Cocktail glasses (martini or coupe)
For serving our Strawberry Lemon Drop with style. Chilled glasses enhance the drinking experience.
- Small saucepan
To prepare the Strawberry Simple Syrup by simmering sugar and strawberries together.
- Ice scoop or tongs
To add ice cubes hygienically and keep the drink cold.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cocktail shaker | Mix and chill the cocktail |
| Jigger | Measure liquids accurately |
| Muddler | Crush fresh strawberries if desired |
| Fine mesh strainer | Strain pulp and seeds |
| Citrus juicer/reamer | Extract fresh lemon juice |
| Cocktail glasses | Serve the finished cocktail stylishly |
| Small saucepan | Prepare strawberry simple syrup |
| Ice scoop/tongs | Add ice hygienically to the shaker or glass |
With these tools, we ensure every sip of our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop is balanced, fresh, and visually appealing—ready for summer entertaining or a relaxing evening at home.
Prep Work
To ensure our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop cocktail delivers vibrant flavor and perfect balance, meticulous Prep Work is essential. Let’s walk through the key steps to get everything ready.
Making the Strawberry Simple Syrup
Our Strawberry Simple Syrup is the heart of this cocktail’s sweet, fruity twist. Here’s how to make it efficiently:
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- Instructions:
- Combine strawberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once dissolved, bring the syrup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, crushing the strawberries lightly with a spoon to release their juices.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Transfer the syrup to a clean container and refrigerate until chilled.
Tip: Store the syrup in the fridge and use within 1 week for optimal freshness.
Preparing Fresh Lemons
For the iconic lemon drop tang, fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable. Here’s how to prepare it perfectly:
- Select ripe, firm lemons with bright yellow skin for maximum juice and flavor.
- Roll each lemon firmly on the countertop before cutting to loosen the juice inside.
- Cut lemons in half crosswise.
- Use a handheld citrus juicer or reamer to extract juice, straining seeds out as you go.
- Measure precisely to ensure bright acidity in the cocktail.
| Lemon Juice Amount | Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 1 small lemon | Approximately 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice |
| 1 medium lemon | Approximately 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice |
| 1 large lemon | Approximately 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice |
We recommend freshly squeezed juice over bottled for maximum freshness and zing.
This careful prep work creates the foundation for our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop’s bold, refreshing flavor profile.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to craft the perfect Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop cocktail. Precision and fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.
Mixing the Lemon Drop Cocktail
- Measure 2 ounces of vodka using a jigger and pour into the cocktail shaker.
- Add 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice extracted from ripe lemons. Use a citrus juicer for maximum juice and minimal pith.
- If desired, add ½ ounce of triple sec to enhance the citrus notes.
- Combine all ingredients in the shaker over ice cubes to chill.
Combining with Strawberry Syrup
- Add 1 ounce of homemade Strawberry Simple Syrup to the shaker.
- Ensure the syrup is freshly strained for a smooth texture without strawberry seeds.
- The syrup provides natural sweetness and vibrant color, perfectly complementing the tart lemon flavor.
Shaking and Straining
- Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over your serving glass.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass rimmed with sugar (optional) and filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice and a lemon wedge for an attractive finish.
| Step | Ingredient/Action | Measurement/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | Add to shaker | 2 ounces |
| Lemon juice | Freshly squeezed | 1 ounce |
| Triple sec (optional) | Enhance citrus flavor | ½ ounce |
| Strawberry syrup | Add freshly strained | 1 ounce |
| Shake | Shake mixture over ice | 15 seconds |
| Strain and garnish | Use fine mesh strainer, garnish | Serve immediately |
This precise method guarantees each sip of our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop bursts with crisp citrus and juicy strawberry flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop cocktail at its best, presentation and accompaniments are key. Thoughtful choices in glassware and garnishes elevate the drinking experience, highlighting the vibrant flavors and refreshing appeal of this summer favorite.
Glassware
Choosing the right glass enhances both the aesthetics and the flavor profile of the Strawberry Lemon Drop. We recommend:
- Martini Glass: Its wide rim allows the citrus and strawberry aromas to open up, creating an inviting sensory experience.
- Coupe Glass: Delivers a vintage charm with a shallow bowl that complements the delicate balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Rocks Glass (with crushed ice): Perfect if you prefer a slightly longer, chilled drink that stays cool without diluting the flavors too quickly.
| Glass Type | Benefits | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Martini Glass | Enhances aroma, elegant presentation | Crisp, up cocktails |
| Coupe Glass | Stylish vintage look, aromatic | Light, fruity sippers |
| Rocks Glass | Holds crushed ice, keeps chilled | Longer slow sipping cocktails |
“Serve it chilled with a sugared rim to reinforce the cocktail’s sweet-tart contrast and add a touch of sparkle.”
Garnishing Tips
Garnishes not only decorate but also amplify the taste and enjoyment of our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop. Consider these tips to make each glass irresistible:
- Fresh Strawberry Slices: Float one or two thin slices on top or spear them on a cocktail pick to highlight the strawberry essence visually and aromatically.
- Lemon Wedge or Twist: Adds a zesty aroma. A twisted lemon peel rimmed around the glass edge intensifies citrus notes as you sip.
- Sugar Rim: Use superfine sugar or even mix sugar with a little lemon zest for a fragrant, textural contrast.
- Fresh Mint Sprig: A subtle fresh herb note that pairs well with strawberry and lemon, adding a pop of green color.
“Garnishing is about balance—don’t overpower the vibrant strawberry and lemon flavors but complement them with bright fresh elements.”
When serving, place the garnished cocktail on a small plate with a few fresh strawberry halves or lemon slices for guests to add if desired. This interaction adds a playful element to your presentation, making the Strawberry Lemon Drop memorable for all.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop without last-minute stress, we recommend some simple make-ahead strategies that preserve freshness and flavor.
Prepare Strawberry Simple Syrup in Advance
The foundation of this cocktail is the vibrant Strawberry Simple Syrup. We suggest making the syrup up to 3 days ahead and storing it in a clean airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the syrup’s flavors to deepen while saving time on cocktail day.
| Task | Timeframe | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Make Strawberry Simple Syrup | Up to 3 days | Airtight container, refrigerated |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | Same day | Airtight bottle, refrigerated |
Fresh Lemon Juice: Best When Fresh
For the most authentic tartness, use freshly squeezed lemon juice just before mixing the cocktails. However, if needed, you can squeeze lemons up to 24 hours in advance. Store the juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator to keep its zesty brightness intact.
Pre-Chill Glassware and Ingredients
To serve the drink perfectly cold, chill your cocktail glasses in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving. We also recommend chilling vodka and triple sec beforehand to maintain crispness without relying heavily on ice.
“Pre-chilling saves dilution and keeps the drink balanced and flavorful from the first sip to the last.”
Assemble Ingredients for Quick Mixing
Arrange all measured ingredients—vodka, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, and triple sec—ready in small bowls or jiggers before cocktail preparation begins. This organization streamlines the shaking and pouring process, ensuring our Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop comes together efficiently.
Using these make-ahead tips helps us create a flawless cocktail experience, turning preparation into a breeze while maximizing freshness and flavor in every glass.
Conclusion
Crafting the Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop is a rewarding way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, we can create a cocktail that’s both visually stunning and deliciously refreshing.
Whether we’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart that never disappoints. It’s a go-to choice for adding a splash of summer to our glass any time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop cocktail?
The Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop is a refreshing twist on the classic lemon drop cocktail, combining fresh strawberries with zesty lemon juice, vodka, and optional triple sec. It’s known for its vibrant color, crisp flavor, and simplicity, making it perfect for summer parties or relaxing at home.
What ingredients are needed to make the Strawberry Simple Syrup?
To make the Strawberry Simple Syrup, you need fresh strawberries, sugar, and water. The strawberries are cooked with sugar and water to create a sweet, fruity syrup that enhances the cocktail’s flavor and color.
What tools are essential for making this cocktail?
Key tools include a cocktail shaker, jigger for measuring, muddler for crushing strawberries, fine mesh strainer, citrus juicer, small saucepan for syrup, ice scoop or tongs, and stylish cocktail glasses for serving.
Can I prepare any ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, the Strawberry Simple Syrup can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best used immediately but can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead if refrigerated.
How should I garnish the Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop?
Garnishes include fresh strawberry slices, lemon wedges or twists, a sugar rim, and a mint sprig. These add visual appeal and complement the cocktail’s fruity, citrus flavors.
What glassware is recommended for serving?
Martini glasses, coupe glasses, or rocks glasses are ideal choices. Each enhances the presentation and flavor experience of the cocktail.
How do I mix the cocktail properly?
Combine 2 oz vodka, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 oz Strawberry Simple Syrup, and optionally ½ oz triple sec in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into your chosen glass, then garnish as desired.
Is this cocktail suitable for beginners?
Yes, this recipe is straightforward, using simple ingredients and basic tools. It’s perfect for novice cocktail makers looking to impress with fresh, vibrant flavors.