Drink Recipes

Limoncello Lemon Drop Martini

Millie Pham

Let’s make a Limoncello Lemon Drop Martini — it’s fresh, sweet-tart, and oh-so-sippable.

This is one of those easy drinks that feels fancy but comes together in just minutes.

It’s perfect for spring and summer nights, brunch with friends, or a little “me time” treat.

I love how bright and lemony it is, and that sugar rim?

Always a hit.

🍋 What You’ll Need

  • 2 oz Limoncello (chilled)
  • 1 oz vodka (plain or citrus-flavored)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more to taste)
  • Ice
  • Sugar (for the rim)
  • Lemon twist (for garnish)
Limoncello Sunrise

🔥 Pro Tips

  1. Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra refreshing drink.
  2. Always use fresh lemon juice — bottled just won’t give you the same brightness.
  3. Adjust the simple syrup depending on how sweet you like it.
  4. Shake it like you mean it — 15 seconds gets that perfect chill and froth.
  5. Make a kid-friendly version by mixing lemonade and sparkling water in a fancy glass with a sugar rim!

🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or shot glass
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for pulp)
  • Citrus juicer
  • Martini glass
  • Small plate (for sugar rim)

🔁 Substitutions & Variations

  • No Limoncello? Use more vodka + lemon juice + extra simple syrup.
  • Try flavored vodka like lemon or vanilla for a twist.
  • Add a splash of orange liqueur for a citrusy depth.

⏱️ Make Ahead Tips

  • Mix the Limoncello, vodka, and simple syrup in advance and store in the fridge (without lemon juice).
  • Add lemon juice and shake just before serving to keep it fresh.

🥄 Instructions

Step 1: Sugar the Rim

Pour a little sugar onto a plate. Rub the edge of your martini glass with a lemon wedge, then dip into the sugar to coat the rim.

Limoncello Sunrise

Step 2: Juice the Lemon

Squeeze half a lemon to get about 1 oz of fresh juice. Strain out seeds and pulp if you want it smooth.

Limoncello Sunrise

Step 3: Add Ingredients to Shaker

Add 2 oz chilled Limoncello, 1 oz vodka, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1/2 oz simple syrup, and a handful of ice to your cocktail shaker.

Limoncello Sunrise

Step 4: Shake It Up

Seal the shaker and shake hard for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold and frosty.

Limoncello Sunrise

Step 5: Strain & Pour

Strain the mixture into your sugared martini glass. Make sure no ice or pulp gets in — use a fine mesh strainer if you like it extra smooth.

Limoncello Sunrise

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Add a twist of lemon on top for that perfect final touch. Serve immediately while icy cold.

Limoncello Sunrise

🧊 Leftovers & Storage

This one’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you made extra, store the mix (without ice) in the fridge for up to 1 day. Give it a quick shake before serving again.

💛 Final Thoughts

This Limoncello Lemon Drop Martini is the sunshine-in-a-glass kinda drink that never fails to impress. It’s easy, it’s pretty, and it packs the perfect citrus punch. I hope you love it as much as I do! Leave a comment if you tried it, have questions, or just wanna say hi. Cheers! 🥂

Hi there! I'm Millie Pham, a devoted brewer and tea lover at heart. As the founder of Bean Leaf Cup, my mission is to share my tea and coffee expertise with you all. I firmly believe that creating a fantastic cup of tea or coffee should be easy for everyone. No matter if you're already a coffee or tea expert or just beginning your journey, I'm here to help you navigate the world of brewing. Welcome aboard!