This refreshing Lavender Lemon Drop Martini combines bright lemon juice and sweet lavender syrup for a fun twist! It’s the perfect drink for summer evenings or celebrations.
Shaking it up is my favorite part! 🍸 I love seeing that lovely purple color as I pour. Just a sip transports me to a sunny garden. Trust me, you’ll want to make these for all your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A clean, neutral vodka works best so the lavender and lemon flavors shine through. If you’re looking for a lower-alcohol option, consider using a flavored vodka, like lemon or elderflower, for an interesting twist.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeezing your own lemon juice is key for fresh flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but it may not taste as vibrant.
Lavender Simple Syrup: You can easily buy lavender syrup, but homemade is fresher and more aromatic. If you can’t find culinary lavender, consider using rosemary or thyme for a different herbal twist, or try a store-bought floral syrup.
Coarse Sugar: Rimming the glass with sugar adds a sweet touch. You can use sea salt or flavored salts if you’re feeling adventurous, particularly for a unique contrast with the drink.
How Do I Make the Perfect Lavender Simple Syrup?
Making lavender simple syrup is straightforward and adds a lovely touch to your cocktail. Here’s how to do it well:
- In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar with the dried lavender buds.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. This time lets the lavender infuse its flavor.
- After steeping, strain out the lavender buds and let the syrup cool completely.
- Store any extras in the fridge for about a week
With this syrup on hand, you can use it in various drinks, making it a great, versatile addition to your cocktail arsenal!
Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka (preferably a clean, neutral vodka)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or twist, for garnish
- Fresh lavender sprig, for garnish
- Coarse sugar or sparkling sugar crystals, for rimming the glass (optional)
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 delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes making the lavender simple syrup and assembling the drink. Let the syrup cool while you prepare your martini, and in no time, you’ll be ready to enjoy this lovely beverage!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Lavender Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender buds. Bring this mix to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove it from heat and let it steep for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will help infuse the lovely lavender flavor into the syrup. After steeping, strain out the lavender buds and let the syrup cool completely. You can store any leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to a week.
2. Prepare the Glass:
Take a lemon wedge and rub it around the rim of your martini glass. Then, dip that rim into coarse sugar or sparkling sugar crystals to create a beautiful sugared rim. Set the glass aside for now!
3. Mix the Cocktail:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, the fresh lemon juice, and the lavender simple syrup you just made. Feel free to adjust the syrup according to your taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
4. Shake Well:
Put the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to be well chilled and properly mixed!
5. Strain and Serve:
Now, strain the drink into your prepared martini glass, allowing it to showcase its gorgeous pale purple hue.
6. Garnish:
To finish off your cocktail, place a fresh lavender sprig and a thin slice or twist of lemon on the rim for garnish. It adds a lovely touch and enhances the drink’s aroma.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini immediately. Take a sip and let the bright citrus and floral notes dance on your palate. Cheers to a delightful drink!
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This cocktail is perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings, impressing everyone with its stunning appearance and delicious flavor. Enjoy! 🍸
FAQ for Easy Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
Can I Use Store-Bought Lavender Syrup Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought lavender syrup will work perfectly as a substitute. Just use the same amount as you would for the homemade version. Check the sweetness to see if you need to adjust the other ingredients.
What If I Don’t Have Coarse Sugar for Rimming the Glass?
No worries! If you don’t have coarse sugar, granulated sugar can work as well. Alternatively, you can skip rimming entirely or use a flavored salt for an interesting twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Lavender Simple Syrup?
Store any leftover lavender simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy more lavender cocktails or other beverages later!
Can I Substitute Another Spirit for Vodka?
Yes! If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, gin can be a great alternative, as its botanical notes complement the lavender beautifully. Just keep in mind it will change the overall taste of the cocktail.
