Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini

This Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini is the perfect blend of tart lemon, sweet raspberry and vodka—ideal for spring brunches, summer evenings, or anytime you’re craving something bright, fruity, and refreshing.

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Let’s put a fresh and fruity twist on a classic cocktail with this raspberry lemon drop martini. I love lemon drops for their perfect sweet-tart balance, and adding raspberries not only enhances the flavor but gives the drink a gorgeous pink hue that makes it extra fun and festive.

This raspberry lemon drop martini uses a homemade raspberry simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, vodka, and triple sec for an extra citrusy punch. I love adding a sugar rim with a touch of lemon zest to give each sip a little sparkle, and garnishing with a fresh raspberry and lemon slice makes this martini as pretty as it is delicious.

This raspberry lemon drop martini is the kind of cocktail that’s just as perfect for a celebratory toast as it is for a chill evening on the patio with friends.

Ingredients

Vodka: Any good-quality vodka will do. I like to use Tito’s or Ketel One for a clean, smooth base.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice is a must—it adds brightness and that signature lemon drop tang.
Triple sec: Adds depth and an orange-citrus note that balances the tart lemon.
Raspberry simple syrup: Made with raspberries, sugar, and water. Sweet, fruity, and easy to make ahead.
Sugar: Used in the simple syrup and for the optional sugar rim.
Lemon zest: Adds extra citrus aroma when mixed with sugar for the rim.
Raspberries & lemon slice: For garnish.

Equipment

Small saucepan
Fine mesh strainer
Juicer
Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Martini glasses

Instructions

To make the raspberry simple syrup
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the raspberries are broken down.
Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a jar and discard solids (or save and add to a smoothie).

To make the sugar rim
On a small plate, combine 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a cocktail glass and dip the rim into the lemon sugar mixture.

To make the martini
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 3 oz vodka, 3 oz lemon juice, 1.5 oz triple sec or Cointreau, and 1.5 oz raspberry simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, or until the shaker is frosty.
Strain into the prepared cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon slice and a fresh raspberry.

What to Serve with Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini

Appetizer: Beet and Goat Cheese Dip
Entree: Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
Dessert: Gluten Free Lemon Cookies

Tips

• Make the raspberry simple syrup ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to a week.
• Chill your martini glasses for 10 minutes before serving to keep the cocktail nice and cold.
• If you like a sweeter cocktail, add an extra splash of raspberry syrup.
• Use frozen raspberries if fresh aren’t available—they work just as well for the syrup.
• Store remaining raspberry simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to one week. You should have enough simple syrup to make 5 raspberry lemon drops.

Substitutions

Triple sec: You can also use Cointeau, Grand Marnier or orange liqueur of your choice.
Raspberry syrup: You can opt for raspberry vodka and regular simple syrup. For a different twist, try strawberry or blackberry syrup.
Sugar rim: optional if your guests do not like super sweet cocktails. You could also rim just half the glass.

More Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love

• Strawberry Spritz
• Tropical Passion Fruit Cocktail
• White Peach Frosé
• Coconut Lime Margarita
• Hugo Spritz

If you make this Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini, be sure to leave a comment below and rate this recipe! If you snap a pic, be sure to tag me on Instagram @thechowdown! I love seeing your creations!