Strawberry Lemon Drop Recipe: Bright, Boozy, and Beautiful

There’s something about a pink cocktail in a sugar-rimmed glass that just feels like the moment. This strawberry lemon drop recipe is as pretty as it is punchy, sweet, tart, refreshing, and easy to make in under five minutes.

At Tasty Plated, we’re big believers in cocktails that look impressive but don’t require a mixologist’s license. And Chef Rachael’s version of the classic lemon drop takes it to the next level with fresh strawberry syrup and a few thoughtful touches that make each sip feel special.

Whether you’re mixing for one, batching for brunch, or toasting at golden hour, this drink always delivers.

• Why a Strawberry Twist Works So Well in a Lemon Drop

The classic lemon drop is already a crowd-pleaser: citrusy, just a little sweet, and clean on the finish. Adding strawberries brings in a soft fruitiness that mellows the tartness and adds a gorgeous blush-pink hue.

This isn’t a super-sweet cocktail. It’s balanced and bright, the kind of drink that tastes just as good at a bridal shower as it does on your couch with a good playlist.

Why it works:

• Lemon + strawberry is a flavour pairing made in summer heaven

• The vodka keeps it crisp, while the syrup softens the edges

• It’s easy to batch for guests, and looks stunning in glass

• Great use for extra strawberries during berry season

• Ingredients You’ll Need

This drink comes together with just a few ingredients, but quality matters. Fresh lemon juice, ripe strawberries, and good vodka make all the difference.

Cocktail:

• 2 oz vodka (plain or citrus-flavoured)

• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice

• ¾ oz strawberry simple syrup

• ½ oz triple sec or orange liqueur

• Ice

• Sugar for rimming (optional)

• Fresh strawberry or lemon twist for garnish

Strawberry Simple Syrup:

• ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries

• ½ cup water

• ½ cup granulated sugar

In a saucepan, simmer everything until the strawberries are soft and the sugar is dissolved (about 10 minutes). Let cool, strain, and refrigerate for up to a week.

• How to Make the Strawberry Lemon Drop Recipe

This is a shake-and-pour cocktail that takes less than 5 minutes to prepare once your syrup is ready.

Instructions:

1. Prep the glass:
   Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a coupe or martini glass. Dip into sugar for a frosted edge.

2. Shake the cocktail:
   Fill a shaker with ice. Add vodka, lemon juice, strawberry syrup, and triple sec. Shake for about 15 seconds, until the shaker is very cold.

3. Strain and serve:
   Pour into your prepared glass. Garnish with a halved strawberry or lemon twist.

4. Sip and enjoy:
   Best served immediately, while chilled.

• Chef Rachael’s Take: Homemade Syrup and Garnish Tips

Chef Rachael’s trick to making this cocktail extra special? Keep it natural and vibrant. She skips artificial mixers and leans into real fruit, citrus oils, and herbaceous garnish.

Her best tips:

• Don’t over-sweeten your syrup let the berries shine.

• Add a little orange zest to your syrup for complexity.

• Want a richer colour? Use muddled berries in the shaker for a deeper pink tone.

• Skip the sugar rim if you want a drier, cleaner sip.

• Garnish with edible flowers or a basil leaf for spring parties.

“I always say, if you’re going to sip something pretty, it should taste even better than it looks. That’s what this drink does, fresh, simple, and kind of irresistible.”
Chef Rachael

• Table: Lemon Drop vs Strawberry Lemon Drop vs Cosmopolitan

If a Cosmo feels a little too 2000s, and a classic lemon drop too sharp, the strawberry version hits just the right note.

• How to Serve It for Brunch, Date Night, or Girls’ Night In

This cocktail was made for occasions that feel special, but relaxed. You can serve it in one glass or multiply the ingredients for a whole pitcher.

Party Pairing Ideas:

• Mini pancakes or strawberry scones for brunch

• Goat cheese crostini, smoked salmon, or fresh fruit for apps

• Pair with a cheeseboard or spring salad for casual entertaining

• Add herb-infused sparkling water on the side for contrast

Pitcher Recipe (Serves 6):

• 1½ cups vodka

• ¾ cup lemon juice

• ¾ cup strawberry syrup

• ½ cup triple sec

Shake or stir with ice just before serving. Pour into chilled glasses.

• FAQs About Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktails

1. Can I use store-bought strawberry syrup?
Yes, but homemade gives you more control and a fresher taste.

2. What’s the best vodka for this recipe?
Any smooth, neutral vodka works. You can also use citrus-flavoured vodka for extra zest.

3. Can I make this sugar-free?
Try monk fruit or stevia-based syrups if you’re watching sugar. Fresh lemon and strawberry still shine.

4. What if I don’t have triple sec?
Use Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or even a splash of fresh orange juice in a pinch.

5. Can I batch it for a party?
Absolutely. Just scale up and mix in a pitcher, keep it chilled and garnish individually.

6. Can I make it a mocktail?
Yes. Replace vodka and triple sec with sparkling water and a splash of orange juice.

• Final Sip: A Fresh Cocktail That’s Easy to Love

The strawberry lemon drop recipe is everything you want in a signature drink, simple, seasonal, and full of bright, joyful flavour. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch or just winding down after a long week, this cocktail brings sunshine to your glass.

With Chef Rachael’s syrup tips and clean ingredients, you’ll skip the pre-made mixers and reach for real fruit every time. And once you’ve made it once? You’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

So grab a shaker, slice up a lemon, and get ready to sip something beautiful.