This fun and refreshing Lavender Lemon Drop Martini mixes bright lemon juice with a touch of floral lavender. It’s perfect for a sunny day or a lively evening party!
Honestly, who knew that lavender could make cocktails taste so fancy? Just shake, pour, and enjoy! I love garnishing mine with a lemon twist for an extra zing. Cheers! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Using a quality vodka is key for a smooth drink. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could try using a vodka infused with citrus or floral notes for extra flavor. Gin also works if you enjoy more botanicals!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but it may lack the brightness you’re looking for. Always taste and adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Lavender Simple Syrup: This homemade syrup is what makes the drink special! If you can’t find dried culinary lavender, consider using a store-bought lavender syrup. You can also swap it with honey or agave syrup with a drop of lavender extract for a quick fix.
Triple Sec: While optional, triple sec adds a nice orange flavor. For a lighter option, you could use a splash of orange juice or omit it entirely for a more straightforward lemon taste.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Lavender Simple Syrup?
Making lavender simple syrup is quite easy and elevates this cocktail! Just take your time to extract the flavors fully. Here’s how to do it:
- In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar. For one cup of each, add two tablespoons of dried culinary lavender flowers.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Let it cool completely to allow the lavender flavor to develop, then strain out the flowers.
Store the syrup in the refrigerator for later use. It adds a delightful floral note to other cocktails or even in teas!
Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka (preferably a good quality vodka)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz lavender simple syrup (see note below)
- 1/4 oz triple sec or orange liqueur (optional for extra citrus depth)
- Ice cubes
- Coarse sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon slice and lavender sprig (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail will take about 10 minutes to prepare, especially if you’ve already made the lavender simple syrup in advance. If you’re making the syrup fresh, allow an extra 10 minutes for it to cool after steeping. So, a total of around 20 minutes to enjoy this refreshing drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lavender Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender flowers. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. After that, remove it from heat and let it steep until cool. Once cooled, strain out the flowers and store the syrup in the refrigerator for future use.
2. Rim the Glass:
Take a lemon wedge and run it around the rim of a martini glass. Then, dip the rim into coarse sugar to coat it evenly. This gives a sweet touch and a nice presentation—set the glass aside for now.
3. Mix the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and triple sec if you’re using it. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds; this chills the mixture beautifully.
4. Strain and Garnish:
Using a strainer, pour the mixed cocktail into your prepared martini glass. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish your drink with a lemon slice on the rim and a sprig of lavender floating on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of floral and citrus flavors. Cheers!
This cocktail is sure to impress with its vibrant color and refreshing taste. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors that makes this lemon drop truly special! 🥂
FAQ for Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Can I Use Dried Lavender from My Garden?
Yes! Just make sure it’s culinary lavender, as not all lavender is safe for consumption. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any dust or insects before using it in your syrup.
What Can I Substitute for Vodka?
If you want to change it up, gin can be a great alternative due to its botanical flavors that complement the lavender. Alternatively, a citrus-infused vodka can add an extra zing!
How Should I Store Leftover Lavender Simple Syrup?
Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 2 weeks. You can use it in other cocktails, teas, or even drizzled over desserts for a floral touch!
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka and triple sec with sparkling water or lemonade. Mix with the lavender syrup and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing mocktail!
