This fun Lavender Lemon Drop Martini combines zesty lemon and floral lavender for a refreshing drink! It’s bright and flavorful, perfect for a sunny day or a cozy evening in.
I love serving these at parties because they add a splash of color and whimsy to the table. Plus, who doesn’t love a drink that tastes like a fancy garden? Cheers! 🍋💜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A citrus-flavored vodka brings extra zing to this drink. However, any good quality vodka will work well. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, consider using club soda or lemon-flavored sparkling water instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh is always best for flavor!
Lavender Simple Syrup: Making your own syrup adds a lovely touch. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought lavender syrup or even try honey or agave syrup for a different twist.
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur enhances the flavors. If you want a non-alcoholic option, you could substitute with orange juice or an orange-flavored soda for sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Make Lavender Simple Syrup?
Making lavender simple syrup is fun and really enhances this cocktail! Start by combining equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Heat the mixture over medium heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add dried culinary lavender buds and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes for the flavor to infuse.
- Once done, strain out the lavender and let the syrup cool before using. Store any extra syrup in the fridge for up to a month!
This syrup is also versatile; try it in other drinks or desserts for a floral touch! Enjoy crafting your cocktail!
Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz vodka (preferably citrus-flavored)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
- 1/4 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- Ice cubes
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lavender sprig (for garnish)
- Lemon slice (for garnish)
For the Lavender Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes in total. It’s quick to make, with a bit of time required to make the lavender simple syrup. Just a few minutes of preparation and chilling, and you’ll have a stunning cocktail ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Lavender Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and dried lavender buds. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pan from heat and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. This allows the lavender flavor to infuse. After steeping, strain out the lavender buds, and let the syrup cool completely before using.
2. Prepare the Glass:
To create a lovely sugar rim, pour some sugar onto a small plate. Take a lemon wedge and rub it along the rim of your martini glass. Then, dip the wet rim into the sugar until it’s coated evenly. Set this beautiful glass aside for now!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Pour in the vodka, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and triple sec. This mix will bring out a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors.
4. Shake:
Put the lid on the shaker and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels nice and frosty cold. This step chills all the ingredients beautifully.
5. Strain and Serve:
Carefully strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into your prepared martini glass. The sugar rim and floral color will make it look stunning!
6. Garnish:
For the finishing touch, float a few lavender buds on top of the cocktail, add a lemon slice on the rim for extra charm, and tuck a sprig of lavender beside it for an elegant presentation.
Enjoy this floral, refreshing, lightly sweetened martini that’s perfect for sipping in the spring and summer sun!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Dried Lavender If I Can’t Find Fresh?
Absolutely! Dried culinary lavender is perfect for this recipe and is often easier to find. Just be sure to use culinary-grade lavender, as other types may not be safe for consumption.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, simply reduce the amount of lavender simple syrup. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste. You can always add more if needed!
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! To make a virgin version, skip the vodka and triple sec. Instead, mix lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and soda water for a refreshing mocktail.
How Should I Store the Lavender Simple Syrup?
Store any leftover lavender simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a month. Use it to sweeten other drinks or desserts for a delightful floral note!