Pineapple Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe

I love making cocktails that walk that line between sweet and tart, and honestly, a pineapple lemon drop cocktail nails it. When you mix bright lemon with mellow pineapple, you get this crisp drink that’s just so easy to sip.

Let’s get into how to make this simple twist on the classic lemon drop cocktail—you only need a handful of ingredients and some basic tools.

This version brings a sunny, tropical edge to the traditional lemon drop martini. I really enjoy how the pineapple kind of smooths out the sharpness of the lemon but still keeps that clean, citrus kick.

It’s a quick recipe, honestly—looks fancy, but you’ll have it ready in minutes.

You’ll see how to shake up your own pineapple lemon drop cocktail and get a sense of its bright flavor and smooth texture. Every sip is a cool mix of sweet pineapple and zesty lemon that keeps you reaching for the next one.

Pineapple Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe

This drink brings together sweet pineapple and tart lemon for a crisp, tropical vibe. It’s honestly easy to make at home—just grab a few bar tools and some fresh ingredients for a smooth, refreshing cocktail.

Equipment

When I make a pineapple lemon drop, I keep things pretty simple. I always grab a cocktail shaker—it chills everything fast and mixes the flavors right.

A strainer comes in handy to keep out ice and fruit bits when you pour.

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Strainer
• Martini glass
• Small plate for sugar rim
• Citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice
• Bar spoon for stirring if needed

I usually chill my martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before I start. That cold glass just makes the drink taste extra crisp.

And yeah, I double-check the shaker lid so I don’t end up with a mess on the counter.

Ingredients

Fresh juice always makes the difference, doesn’t it? The combo of pineapple juice and fresh lemon juice gives the drink that pop of flavor.

Vodka keeps things clean, and triple sec or Cointreau adds a gentle orange note that balances the tartness.

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• Ice cubes for shaking
• Sugar for the rim
• Lemon twist or pineapple slice for garnish

Sometimes I tweak the sweetness—just add a touch more or less simple syrup, depending on the mood. Fresh lemon juice instead of bottled? Totally worth it.

Instructions

First, I prep the sugar rim. I run a lemon wedge around the rim of my martini glass and dip it in sugar.

Then I fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice.

• Pour in vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
• Pop on the lid and shake for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels frosty.
• Strain everything into the chilled martini glass.
• Top it off with a lemon twist or pineapple slice.

When the drink is freshly shaken, the balance between sweet and tart really shines. The sugar rim? It gives a little crunch and a sweet hit with the citrus.

Notes

Sometimes I reach for Cointreau instead of triple sec—it’s a bit smoother and adds a richer orange flavor. If the drink comes out too tart, I just mix in a bit more simple syrup.

Want to lighten it up? I use a little less vodka and splash in some sparkling water.

Serving it with fresh fruit skewers always makes the glass look extra inviting. Shaking with crushed ice instead of cubes gives the drink a frothier texture, too.

And if you keep everything cold before mixing, the cocktail stays bright and refreshing right to the last sip.

Tasting Notes

I’m tasting a refreshing cocktail that really balances sweet and tart flavors in a clean, bright way. That first sip? It delivers a light citrus zing from the lemon juice, and honestly, it wakes up my palate.

Then comes the tropical sweetness of pineapple. It adds this smooth, fruity layer that softens the sharpness of the lemon.

The flavors blend together so easily, and I get a crisp but gentle finish. There’s something about that.

The sugar rim gives each sip a little sparkle and texture. I love the tiny crunch—it contrasts with the silky drink in a way that’s just fun.

The vodka hangs out quietly in the background. It adds some body but never overpowers the fruit.

This drink feels light enough for a warm afternoon, but it’s still packed with flavor.

When I serve it chilled, the aroma of pineapple stands out even more. The scent reminds me of fresh fruit on a summer day—simple, pleasant, not too strong or cloying.