Nothing says summer like a perfectly chilled Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop. This vibrant cocktail blends the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe strawberries, creating a refreshing treat that’s ideal for warm days and festive gatherings. We love how this recipe turns classic flavors into a cool, slushy delight that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just craving a fruity escape, this Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop hits the spot with its bright citrus kick and luscious berry notes. Plus, it’s quick to whip up with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Let’s dive into crafting this crowd-pleaser that balances sweet and tangy perfectly while keeping things icy cold and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
To create our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop, we use fresh ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Below are the essentials you’ll need to craft this refreshing summer cocktail.
For the Strawberry Lemon Drop
- 1 cup frozen strawberries (for natural sweetness and vibrant color)
- 2 oz vodka (choose a quality brand for smoothness)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon, gives the signature tang)
- 1 oz triple sec (adds a hint of orange flavor and sweetness)
- 1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste, for balanced sweetness)
- 1 cup ice (to achieve the perfect frozen texture)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Lemon wheel or wedge (adds a zesty aroma and visual appeal)
- Fresh strawberry (slice it for a pop of color on the rim)
- Sugar for rimming the glass (enhances sweetness and presentation)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen strawberries | 1 cup | Sweetness and color |
| Vodka | 2 oz | Alcohol base |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 oz | Tartness and freshness |
| Triple sec | 1 oz | Orange flavor and sweetness |
| Simple syrup | 1 oz | Balances tartness |
| Ice | 1 cup | Frozen cocktail texture |
| Lemon wheel/wedge | Optional | Garnish and aroma |
| Fresh strawberry | Optional | Garnish and color |
| Sugar (for rim) | Optional | Sweet rim and presentation |
Equipment Needed
To craft our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Below we list the tools that will help us blend, serve, and enjoy this delightful summer cocktail efficiently.
- Blender: A high-powered blender is crucial to achieve the smooth, icy texture of our frozen cocktail. It crushes ice and blends frozen strawberries with other ingredients seamlessly.
- Measuring jigger: Accuracy is key in mixing drinks. Using a jigger ensures we measure the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup precisely.
- Citrus juicer: Fresh lemon juice defines the tangy profile. A hand or electric citrus juicer makes extracting juice quick and effortless.
- Cocktail glasses: Chilled martini or coupe glasses present our cocktail elegantly. Optional: rim the glass with sugar for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Bar spoon or stirrer: For gently mixing the ingredients that are added before blending or for final touches.
- Knife and cutting board: To slice lemon wheels and strawberries for garnish that enhance both aroma and appearance.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Blender | Blend and crush ice and ingredients |
| Measuring jigger | Precise measurement of alcohol and mixers |
| Citrus juicer | Extract fresh lemon juice |
| Cocktail glasses | Serve the finished cocktail stylishly |
| Bar spoon or stirrer | Mix ingredients before blending or garnish preparation |
| Knife and cutting board | Slice garnishes |
Prep
To make our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop perfectly refreshing, careful preparation of the key ingredients is essential. Let’s focus on prepping the strawberries and lemons to maximize flavor and texture.
Preparing the Strawberries
- Use 1 cup of frozen strawberries for the ideal balance of sweetness and vibrant color.
- If using fresh strawberries, wash them thoroughly under cold water.
- Remove the green stems by gently twisting or cutting them off.
- Cut the strawberries into halves or quarters to ease blending.
- For frozen strawberries, there’s no need to thaw; use them straight from the freezer to achieve that icy slush texture.
Pro Tip: Using frozen strawberries helps maintain a chilled consistency without diluting the cocktail flavor.
Juicing the Lemons
- Choose 2 to 3 fresh lemons, medium sized for abundant juice.
- Roll each lemon on the countertop firmly to soften and loosen the juice inside.
- Cut the lemons in half crosswise.
- Use a citrus juicer to extract juice efficiently, aiming for 1 oz of fresh lemon juice.
- Strain the juice through a fine sieve to remove seeds and pulp for a smooth drink.
- Keep the juice chilled until ready to mix to maintain the cocktail’s crisp tanginess.
| Ingredient | Preparation Step | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberries | Wash, remove stems, cut if fresh | 1 cup frozen |
| Lemons | Roll, cut, juice, strain | 1 oz fresh juice |
Together these steps lay the foundation for our bold, tangy, and perfectly textured Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop.
Instructions
Let’s dive into crafting our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop, step-by-step, to ensure a perfectly balanced and refreshing cocktail every time.
Making the Simple Syrup
To achieve the perfect sweetness, we start by making a simple syrup:
- Combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Once clear and smooth, remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tip: Making your own simple syrup allows precise control over sweetness, critical for balancing the tartness in our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop.
Blending the Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop
Now we assemble our cocktail using fresh ingredients and frozen berries for that icy texture:
- Add the following measured ingredients into a high-powered blender:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen strawberries | 1 cup |
| Vodka | 2 oz |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 oz |
| Triple sec | 1 oz |
| Simple syrup | 1 oz |
| Ice cubes | 1 cup |
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth, thick, and slushy — usually about 30 to 45 seconds.
- Pause blending to scrape down the sides if necessary, ensuring full integration of all ingredients.
- Pour the blend into chilled cocktail glasses, rimmed with sugar if desired, and garnish with a lemon wheel and strawberry slice for aroma and visual appeal.
Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness
Balancing sweetness and tartness is key to our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop’s signature flavor profile:
- Taste the cocktail once blended.
- If it’s too tart, gradually add more simple syrup in 0.25 oz increments, blending briefly after each addition.
- If the sweetness overpowers the citrus brightness, add a splash more fresh lemon juice (around 0.25 oz), then blend again.
- For a thinner consistency, add a small amount of cold water or extra ice, blending until you reach the desired texture.
“The perfect Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop should dance on your taste buds with a tantalizing blend of sweet and tangy chilled refreshment.”
Mastering these steps guarantees an impeccably refreshing drink that’s ready to impress every time.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance our experience with the Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop, thoughtful presentation and serving choices make all the difference. Let’s explore ideal glassware and garnish options to elevate this refreshing cocktail.
Glassware Tips
Choosing the right glassware accentuates the cocktail’s vibrant color and icy texture. We recommend:
- Martini Glass: The classic choice offers a wide rim perfect for a sugared edge, showcasing the bright pink hue attractively.
- Coupe Glass: Its shallow, rounded shape conveys elegance and allows the citrus aroma to hit our senses first.
- Highball Glass: Ideal if we prefer a more casual serving with extra ice or a longer pour.
| Glass Type | Benefits | Serving Style |
|---|---|---|
| Martini Glass | Wide rim for sugared edges | Chilled, single serve |
| Coupe Glass | Elegant presentation, aroma focus | Stylish and smaller portions |
| Highball Glass | Room for added ice or mixers | Relaxed, taller servings |
Chilling the glassware beforehand enhances the icy effect and keeps our cocktail cooler longer.
Garnish Ideas
A well-chosen garnish amplifies flavor and adds visual appeal. Consider these options for our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop:
- Lemon Wheel or Wedge: Adds fresh citrus aroma and a vibrant yellow contrast.
- Fresh Strawberry Slice: Complements the berry flavor and adds a pop of red.
- Sugared Rim: Dipping the glass rim in lemon juice then coarse sugar creates a sweet border that balances tartness.
- Mint Sprig: Introduces a refreshing herbal note and bright green color.
“Garnishing isn’t just about looks; it enhances the cocktail’s sensory profile with aroma, texture, and visual cues that invite us to savor every sip.”
We can mix and match garnishes for customized flair. For example, a sugared rim paired with a lemon wheel and a mint sprig creates a sophisticated and inviting presentation perfect for entertaining.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead can make enjoying our Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop even easier. With a few simple steps, you can prepare and store the ingredients or mix to save time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Storing the Frozen Mix
To keep the bright flavors and icy texture intact, store the blended cocktail mix properly:
- Transfer the frozen mixture to an airtight container or freezer-safe jar.
- Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn and absorption of other odors.
- Label the container with the preparation date.
| Storage Method | Recommended Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container/freezer-safe jar | Up to 2 weeks | Stir or gently re-blend before serving. |
| Covered bowl (short term) | Up to 24 hours | Keep in freezer; cover with plastic wrap. |
Tip: Let the frozen mix sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before re-blending or serving to achieve the perfect slushy consistency without melting.
Preparing in Advance
We recommend prepping certain components ahead of time to streamline the cocktail-making process:
- Simple Syrup: Make in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This saves time and ensures consistent sweetness.
- Lemon Juice: Juice fresh lemons and strain the juice. Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice fresh strawberries if using fresh. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent clumping.
By organizing these steps ahead of time, we can blend the cocktail quickly when guests arrive or whenever we crave a refreshing Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop.
Conclusion
This Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a vibrant and refreshing cocktail anytime. With just a few simple ingredients and the right tools, we can whip up a perfectly balanced drink that’s both sweet and tangy.
Whether for a summer gathering or a relaxing evening, this icy treat never fails to impress. By prepping ahead and experimenting with garnishes, we make every serving feel special and inviting. Cheers to easy, delicious cocktails that keep us cool and satisfied!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in a Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop?
The main ingredients include frozen strawberries, vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, simple syrup, and ice. Optional garnishes are lemon wedges, strawberry slices, and sugar for rimming the glass.
Do I need special equipment to make this cocktail?
Yes, a high-powered blender is essential for a smooth texture. Other useful tools are a measuring jigger, citrus juicer, bar spoon, knife, cutting board, and chilled cocktail glasses.
How do I prepare strawberries and lemons for the cocktail?
Use 1 cup of frozen strawberries directly or fresh strawberries washed and cut into pieces. For lemons, roll and juice 2-3 medium lemons to extract about 1 oz of fresh juice, then strain to remove seeds.
Can I make the Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop ahead of time?
Yes, store the blended cocktail in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to two weeks. Stir or re-blend before serving. Simple syrup and lemon juice can also be prepared in advance for convenience.
What glassware works best for serving this cocktail?
Martini glasses offer a classic look, coupe glasses add elegance, while highball glasses give a casual vibe. Chilling the glassware beforehand helps keep the cocktail colder longer.
How do I adjust the sweetness or tartness of the drink?
You can increase or reduce the amount of simple syrup for sweetness and add more or less fresh lemon juice for tartness, tailoring the balance to your taste preference.