This Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshing drink that combines the bright taste of lemon with a floral hint of lavender. Perfect for a sunny afternoon!
Making this martini is a breeze! I love shaking it up and feeling a bit fancy with the vibrant lemon color and that lovely lavender aroma. Cheers to good times! 🍋🌸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use a good quality vodka to ensure a smooth drink. If you’re looking for a twist, try flavored vodka like citrus or herbal to enhance the flavors.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! You can substitute with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but it won’t be as vibrant. Remember to adjust the sweetness if you go bottled.
Lavender Simple Syrup: If fresh lavender isn’t available, look for lavender syrup at specialty stores or online. You can also make it with dried culinary lavender as shown in the recipe. Just ensure it’s food-grade!
Triple Sec: You can swap this with any orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a richer flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic version, try using orange soda or orange juice with a splash of club soda.
How Do You Make Perfect Lavender Simple Syrup?
Creating lavender simple syrup is simple and leads to delicious flavor. Here’s how:
- Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan.
- Add dried lavender and bring to a simmer. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Let it steep off the heat for 15-20 minutes, then strain out the lavender.
- Cool and store in a jar in the fridge. It should last a few weeks!
Adjust sweetness to your taste by adding more or less sugar. This syrup is also great in teas and other cocktails!
Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz lavender simple syrup (see instructions below)
- 1/2 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- Ice cubes
- Sugar, for rimming the glass
- Lemon slice, for garnish
- Fresh lavender sprig, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lavender Lemon Drop Martini will take about 10 minutes to prepare and a little extra time to make the lavender simple syrup if you don’t have it ready. Overall, plan for about 15-20 minutes total, including preparation and mixing. Simply shake, serve, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lavender Simple Syrup:
If you don’t have lavender simple syrup ready, it’s easy to make! In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender. Bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove it from heat, then let the mixture steep for about 15-20 minutes. Finally, strain out the lavender and let the syrup cool. Store any extra syrup in the refrigerator for future cocktails!
2. Rim the Glass:
Take a lemon wedge and rub it around the rim of a martini glass to moisten it. Then, dip the rim into sugar to coat it evenly. This adds a lovely touch of sweetness to each sip!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, fill it with ice cubes. Add the vodka, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and triple sec to the shaker. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds or until the shaker feels chilled. This process makes the drink refreshingly cold!
4. Serve:
Carefully strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass. For an extra special touch, garnish your drink with a slice of lemon on the rim and a sprig of fresh lavender either placed inside or next to the drink. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
Sip and enjoy your beautiful and fragrant Lavender Lemon Drop Martini—a delightful balance of tart lemon and sweet floral notes!
FAQs for Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Can I Use Store-Bought Lavender Simple Syrup?
Absolutely! If you prefer convenience, feel free to use store-bought lavender simple syrup. Just ensure it’s food-grade and meant for cocktails for the best flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Triple Sec?
If you don’t have triple sec, you can use any orange-flavored liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier. For a non-alcoholic option, orange juice or orange soda can work in a pinch!
How Do I Store Leftover Simple Syrup?
Store any leftover lavender simple syrup in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last up to 2-3 weeks, making it easy to whip up more cocktails whenever you’re ready!
Can I Make This Drink in Advance?
Yes! You can mix the cocktail ingredients ahead of time, excluding the ice, and store them in the fridge. Just shake with ice just before serving for the best taste and chill!
