Related drink: This drink is very close to a Vodka Sidecar, which uses similar ingredients! Why we love this recipe: When we first tried the lemon drop martini, we could see why it’s a classic. It’s got a cool, clean flavor and a sophisticated vibe. It’s now solidly a part of our cocktail recipe repertoire!
Citron vodka (or regular vodka): For our spin on the lemon drop martini, we use standard vodka to keep it simple. In our taste tests, citron vodka only adds a subtle citrus hint to the finish. But if you have citron vodka, by all means use it here! Cointreau or triple sec: We prefer using Cointreau as the orange liqueur in this drink, but triple sec also works. Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brings the zippy, tart flavor: steer clear of bottled juice here. Simple syrup: Simple syrup balances the flavors: it’s a bar cart staple that’s easy to make at home.
Cointreau vs triple sec
We like this lemon drop martini recipe using Cointreau, which has a orange perfume flavor that’s well balanced between bitter and sweet. You can also use Triple Sec, which has a more straightforward, intense flavor. If you’re not sure whether to spring for a bottle of Cointreau, there’s a long list of great Cointreau drinks that use it, like the margarita and the Cosmopolitan. Don’t want to try the twist? Slice a lemon wheel, then cut a notch in it and add it to the rim of the glass.
Frequently asked questions
More classic cocktails
Here are a few more of our best cocktail recipes you might enjoy:
A classic martini or dirty martini ooze sophistication. The Gibson is the same as a dry martini, except for the garnish! The Espresso martini is a popular variation with a jolt of caffeine. The Vesper martini was invented by James Bond, starring Lillet Blanc, gin, and vodka. A French Martini is perfectly balanced with vodka, pineapple juice, and raspberry liqueur. The pomegranate martini, cucumber martini, and watermelon martini are fun flavor variations.
4.5 from 2 reviews **To achieve a yellow color for this drink, use maple syrup as the sweetener or use citron vodka. With simple syrup and standard vodka, the drink is clear in color.
Classic Margarita The only margarita recipe you need! Here’s how to make the very best margarita with 3 simple ingredients: lime, Cointreau and tequila—and no added sugar. Classic Mojito It’s perfectly balanced with lime, rum and fresh mint! This iconic Cuban cocktail is refreshing and just sweet enough. Salty Dog Here’s a refreshing citrus cocktail that pairs grapefruit juice, gin, and a salted rim. (The classic version has no salt and is called…a Greyhound!) Tom Collins This tall highball drink is a gin sour, a sweet and sour classic cocktail made with gin. It’s refreshing, bubbly, and nostalgic.
