Description
The Pineapple Lemon Drop is a refreshing citrus cocktail that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple juice with the tartness of fresh lemon juice, balanced by a touch of simple syrup and smooth vodka. Perfect for a quick, vibrant drink enjoyed chilled, this cocktail is both easy to prepare and delightfully flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cocktail
- 2 oz vodka (citrus vodka or plain)
- 1 oz pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 3/4 oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice (a handful, for shaking)
For Garnish and Glass
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon twist or pineapple wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Rim a chilled martini glass by first rubbing lemon juice along the rim, then dipping it into sugar to create a sweet and tangy coating. Set the glass aside to allow the sugar to set.
- Mix Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, pour 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of pineapple juice, 3/4 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 3/4 oz of simple syrup. This combination blends the key flavors for the drink.
- Add Ice and Shake: Add a handful of ice cubes to the cocktail shaker, then securely close it and shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled and slightly diluted for perfect balance.
- Strain into Glass: Remove the ice from the shaker by straining the liquid directly into the prepared martini glass, ensuring a smooth and clean pour without ice shards.
- Garnish and Serve: Decorate the cocktail with a lemon twist or a pineapple wedge on the rim of the glass. Serve immediately to enjoy at its freshest and coolest state.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of simple syrup depending on your preferred sweetness.
- Using citrus vodka enhances the lemon flavor but plain vodka works just as well.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the glass in advance for an extra cold serving experience.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and increase pineapple juice and lemon juice proportionally.
