Lavender Lemon Drop Cocktail (+ Mocktail Version)

The Lemon Drop is a classic vodka cocktail that’s loved for its simple yet delicious traits. It’s a perfect blend of tart and sweet that everyone seems to enjoy. But what if we told you there’s a way to elevate this already amazing drink – Lavender Lemon Drop. By adding a floral touch to the standard recipe using lavender simple syrup, we’ve created a drink that’s both familiar and exciting.

Lavender Lemon Drop

The Lavender Lemon Drop recipe is inspired by the classic Tru Organic Vodka, but we’ve added an organic lemon vodka for a quick twist. This drink is a popular cousin of the strawberry lemon drop martini, but with a floral accent from lavender.

The first sip is a burst of tangy, tart flavor from the lemon. It’s like a citrusy fruit punch that’ll perk you up! The sweetness of the lavender simple syrup perfectly balances the sour notes, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and sour that’s irresistible.

Let’s talk about the lavender simple syrup. Its aroma can transport you to a field of fragrant flowers on a warm summer day. The taste is like a hug in a glass, warm, comforting, and sweet. Combining these flavors in a cocktail is pure magic and totally irresistible.

Lemon and lavender are a perfect harmony with vodka. It’s all about having fun with this twist and choosing a vodka you love. Personally, Tito’s is a favorite for a satisfying cocktail.

READ: Amaretto Espresso Martini

How to make a Lavender Lemon Drop Cocktail

For this Lavender Lemon Drop recipe, we’ll be using homemade Lavender Syrup. If you haven’t made it yet, check out our detailed Lavender Syrup recipe.

To begin, chill your cocktail glass while preparing the drink. This ensures a refreshing serving. Gather your ingredients and add them to a cocktail shaker filled with fresh ice. Shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled. Carefully strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass, making sure to catch any ice or pulp.

This lavender lemon cocktail is deceptively simple to garnish. A dried lemon slice and a sprinkle of dried lavender make for an elegant presentation. For an extra touch, consider adding a lemon sugar rim or a sprig of fresh lavender if it’s in season.

Substitutions

• Limoncello makes for an intriguing twist on the lavender lemon drop martini recipe. Swap out the lemon juice and vodka for this Italian liqueur, keeping the lavender simple syrup. Shake with ice in a cocktail shaker, then pour into your prepared glass. This lavender limoncello martini offers a sweeter profile that’s perfect for those with a sugary palate.
• Want to try something different? Raspberry or Blackberry Lemon Drop Martini is a fun swap. Replace the lavender simple syrup with a fruity flavored simple syrup for your own variation.

READ: Raspberry Chocolate Martini

Variations

1. The Lavender Lemon Shooter packs a sweet and delicious punch into a small package. These fun shooters are perfect for your next party. Follow the base recipe, but aim for 20%+ abv to create a high proof cocktail. Serve in shot glasses with citrus juiced edges dipped in lavender lemon sugar. Pour carefully before serving to maintain the layered effect.
2. For a refreshing twist, try the Lavender Lemon Gin And Tonic. Swap vodka for gin in your lemon drops. Use tall glasses filled with ice, add your lavender lemon drop cocktail mix, top with tonic, and garnish with a wedge of lemon. It’s my go-to on a hot day – the botanical notes of gin complement the lavender beautifully.
3. Don’t forget about designated drivers and kids! A Lavender Lemon Mocktail ensures everyone can join the fun. Use no alcohol, just mix lavender syrup and lemon juice with soda water. Add garnishes like lemon wheels and lavender sprigs to make it special.
4. To create lavender lemon drop mocktail, simply swap out the vodka for a splash of sparkling water. The lavender simple syrup and lemon juice will provide the essential flavors, while the sparkling water adds a refreshing fizz.

Storage Instructions

If you find yourself with leftover lemon lavender cocktail, it can be stored in a covered glass, bottle, or container. Keep it refrigerated for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve it again, give it a good shake, pour it over ice, and strain into your glass. 

However, I don’t recommend freezing this cocktail. The fresh hint of lavender and bright citrus notes tend to fade as it sits. In my experience, this drink is at its fresh and best when enjoyed immediately after mixing.

READ: Lavender Martini

Success Tips 

• A truly cold cocktail is the hallmark of a good cocktail. I always freeze ice in large cube trays – these large cubes keep drinks colder longer with less ice melt. It’s a game-changer for maintaining the perfect balance of flavors.
• Don’t forget to prechill glasses and keep ingredients chilled. Store vodka in freezer and simple syrup in fridge. Even your lemon should be kept in fridge until use. This attention to temperature makes a world of difference in the final product.
• Here’s a bonus tip from my years behind the bar: homemade lavender simple syrup is infinitely better than store bought. The fresh, aromatic quality you get from making it yourself elevates the entire drink. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re sipping a classic Lavender Lemon Drop, experimenting with different variations, or enjoying a non-alcoholic mocktail, this delightful drink offers something for everyone. With its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and floral flavors, it’s no wonder the Lavender Lemon Drop has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts. So, raise your glass to this refreshing and versatile libation and savor every sip!

FAQs About Lavender Lemon Drops

What’s in a Lavender Drop?

A lavender drop typically refers to a Lavender Lemon Drop cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the tartness of lemon with the floral notes of lavender, often sweetened with simple syrup and given a kick with vodka. The exact ingredients can vary, but these are the core components.  

Are Lemon and Lavender Good Together?

Absolutely! Lemon and lavender create a delightful flavor combination. The bright, citrusy notes of lemon complement the calming, floral essence of lavender perfectly. This pairing is often used in cocktails, desserts, and even skincare products.  

What are Lemon Drops Used for?

Lemon drops are primarily known as a type of candy, typically hard and chewy with a strong lemon flavor. They are enjoyed for their tangy taste and are often used as a sweet treat.  

However, in the context of cocktails, a “lemon drop” often refers to a cocktail made with lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup. So, while the term can refer to a candy, it’s more commonly associated with a refreshing drink.  

Is Lavender and Lemon a Good Scent?

Yes, lavender and lemon are a popular fragrance combination. The fresh, clean scent of lemon blends beautifully with the calming, floral aroma of lavender. This pairing is often used in perfumes, candles, and other scented products to create a relaxing and uplifting atmosphere.

How Strong Is the Lavender Lemon Drop?

Most flavored vodkas are bottled at around 35 percent ABV or 70 proof. This is a good benchmark for estimating the alcohol content of your Lavender Lemon Drop. Remember, it’s a fun martini, so the proportions of liquor to non-alcoholic mixers will influence the strength.

Generally, you can expect around 17 percent ABV or 34 proof. This puts it in the category of potent martinis, but still lighter than many other cocktails. Perfect for casual entertaining.

What is the best garnish for a Lavender Lemon Drop? 

A lemon twist or a sprig of lavender are classic choices. For a more visually appealing garnish, consider a sugared lemon wheel or a dehydrated lemon slice.

Can I use fresh lavender in a Lavender Lemon Drop? 

Yes, you can use fresh lavender to make your own lavender simple syrup. However, the flavor can be overpowering, so use it sparingly. Dried lavender is generally preferred for its consistent flavor.

Can I substitute other spirits for vodka in a Lavender Lemon Drop? 

Absolutely! Gin, tequila, or even rum can be used as a base for a Lavender Lemon Drop. Experiment with different spirits to find your favorite variation.

Lavender Lemon Drop

Recipe by Raise Your GlassCourse: CocktailsCuisine: American

Servings

1

cocktail

Prep time

5

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Total time

5

minutes

Raise your glass to the Lavender Lemon Drop, a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and floral magic. Cheers to unforgettable moments!

Ingredients

• 2 oz. — Vodka

• 1 oz. — Fresh Lemon Juice

• 1 oz. — Lavender Syrup

Directions

• For this Lavender Lemon Drop recipe, we’ll be using homemade Lavender Syrup. If you haven’t made it yet, check out our detailed Lavender Syrup recipe.
• To begin, chill your cocktail glass while preparing the drink. This ensures a refreshing serving. Gather your ingredients and add them to a cocktail shaker filled with fresh ice. Shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled.
• Carefully strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass, making sure to catch any ice or pulp.
• This lavender lemon cocktail is deceptively simple to garnish. A dried lemon slice and a sprinkle of dried lavender make for an elegant presentation. For an extra touch, consider adding a lemon sugar rim or a sprig of fresh lavender if it’s in season.