Enjoy a refreshing Lemon Drop Highball with this straightforward recipe! Blend vodka, lemon juice, sugar syrup, triple sec and soda for a perfect spring cocktail.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 186
Ingredients
- 1½ oz Vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz Triple Sec
- ½ oz sugar syrup
- 4 oz soda water - to top
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or twist - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Highball Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Shaker
- Strainer
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes, stir and set it aside.
- Add Sugar Syrup: Measure and pour ½ oz sugar syrup into the shaker.
- Add Lemon Juice: Measure and pour 1 oz fresh lemon juice into the shaker.
- Add Triple Sec: Add ½ oz Triple Sec into the shaker.
- Add Vodka: Add 1½ oz Vodka to the mix.
- Add Ice: Fill your shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake: Shake your drink vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain your mixture into the highball glass over fresh ice.
- Top with Soda: Top up the glass with approx. 4 oz soda water.
- Garnish: Place a lemon slice or twist into the glass for garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Vodka: If you don't have vodka, try using gin for a more botanical flavor. I've also used white rum for a sweeter twist.
- Triple Sec: If you are out on any orange liqueur, try using a drop of orange blossom water for a similar citrusy note.
- Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but I prefer fresh for its vibrant taste. Lime juice can also be an exciting alternative.
- Sugar Syrup: You can use honey syrup with a more decadent sweetness; mix honey and water until smooth.
- Soda Water: You can use tonic water if you want a slightly bitter edge or a flavored soda for a twist.
Making a Pitcher of Lemon Drop Highball:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 12 oz of vodka, 4 oz of triple sec, 8 oz of lemon juice, and 4 oz of sugar syrup.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the vodka, triple sec, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into individual ice-filled highball glasses, top them with soda water, garnish with a lemon slice or twist, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Vodka Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit that mimics vodka's neutral profile; these are available and work well in cocktails.
- Triple Sec: Use an orange-flavored simple syrup or add a splash of orange juice.
- Proceed As Usual: Replace vodka with your chosen substitute and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
What is a Lemon Drop Highball?
A Lemon Drop Highball is a vodka-based cocktail made of vodka, triple sec, sugar, fresh lemon juice, and soda water. It’s easy to make because it requires only a few ingredients and simple steps. This refreshing drink offers a crisp citrus flavor, making it perfect for warm weather or casual gatherings.
What is a Lemon Drop Highball made of – The ingredients
Begin with these ingredients to make a Lemon Drop Highball:
- Vodka: Delivers the primary alcoholic content and a smooth base.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Infuses the drink with a tangy, citrusy brightness.
- Triple Sec: Adds complexity and a zesty touch.
- Sugar Syrup: Add sweetness to balance out the sour and spirits elements.
- Soda Water: Adds effervescence and lightens the overall flavor.
- Ice Cubes: Keeps the cocktail chilled and refreshing.
- Lemon Slice or Twist (optional): Enhances visual appeal and adds a subtle citrus aroma.
