Pink Lemon Drop Martini Cocktail Recipe

A Pink Lemon Drop Martini really perks up the classic. Sweet, tart, and citrusy flavors all mix together for this fresh, lively taste that’s somehow both simple and a little bit special.

You can whip up this drink at home with just a handful of ingredients and some basic bar gear.

Honestly, I love the playful pink color—it just looks so inviting, whether you’re hanging out with friends or just winding down solo. The lemon and sweetness balance out, so every sip feels smooth and crisp.

Let me show you how I make a Pink Lemon Drop Martini, with easy steps for getting the flavor right and a quick rundown of what to expect from the taste and texture.

Pink Lemon Drop Martini Cocktail Recipe

I usually mix up this cocktail when I’m craving something bright, smooth, and just a bit tart. Citrus vodka, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness all come together for a crisp, refreshing drink.

Equipment

I keep things simple when I make this. No need for fancy gadgets, but having the right tools does help with flavor and the way it looks.

• Cocktail shaker – so you can mix and chill everything quickly.
• Martini glass – for that classic, clean look.
• Jigger or measuring tool – helps you pour just the right amount.
• Strainer – keeps the ice and pulp out of your glass.
• Small plate – for rimming the glass with sugar.
• Citrus juicer – makes squeezing fresh lemons way easier.
• Bar spoon – handy if you need to stir or layer.

I always chill my martini glass ahead of time. That way, the drink stays cold and the finish is extra crisp.

Ingredients

Fresh and simple—that’s my motto here. I want the lemon to shine, the sweetness to balance, and the vodka to stay smooth.

• 2 oz citrus vodka or plain vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz triple sec, Cointreau, or another orange liqueur
• ½ oz simple syrup
• A few drops of grenadine (optional for color)
• Sugar for rimming the glass
• Lemon wedge for wetting the rim
• Lemon twist for garnish

I always reach for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. The flavor is just cleaner and more natural.

Instructions

Here’s how I make sure the martini turns out smooth and balanced every time.

• Chill your martini glass in the freezer, or fill it with ice water for a few minutes.
• Rub a lemon wedge around the rim, then dip it in sugar to coat.
• Pour vodka, lemon juice, triple sec, simple syrup, and grenadine (if you want that pink color) into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
• Shake it hard for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels nice and cold.
• If you chilled your glass with ice water, dump that out.
• Strain everything into your prepared martini glass.
• Top it off with a lemon twist.

I always make sure to shake it well so the drink chills evenly and the flavors blend together.

Notes

I like to play with the sweetness by tweaking the simple syrup. If I’m in the mood for something sharper, I use a little less. Want it softer and sweeter? I just add a touch more.

Citrus vodka amps up the lemony vibe, while plain vodka keeps things more neutral.

Sometimes I’ll drop in a bit of grenadine for that pretty pink color. It doesn’t really change the taste, but it sure makes the drink pop.

Serving it in a chilled martini glass with a sugared rim just gives it that crisp, clean finish I can’t resist.

Tasting Notes

The first thing that jumps out at me? That bright pink color. It’s cheerful, almost playful, and honestly, it takes me right back to those warm summer parties with friends.

The scent hits next—a light citrus note mingles with a soft whiff of raspberries. There’s a gentle sweetness there, nothing overwhelming.

I take a sip and the flavor comes through crisp and balanced. The lemon brings this clean tang, and then the raspberry slides in, adding just enough fruitiness so it never gets too sour.

I can’t help but love the sugar rim. It gives a tiny sparkle of sweetness right at the finish.

The texture? Silky, not heavy at all. It stays so refreshing, which makes it easy to sip alongside lighter foods.

I usually reach for goat cheese crostini—the creamy cheese just works with the tart lemon, you know?

Sometimes I want something brighter, so I’ll serve it with shrimp ceviche. The citrus in both dishes really plays off each other, and the martini’s chill cools any spice.

Each sip hangs onto its balance—sweet, tart, and there’s even a hint of floral in there. It’s simple, satisfying, and honestly, it just feels right for a relaxed evening or a casual get-together.