Spiced Ginger Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe

I honestly love mixing cocktails that feel both refreshing and, well, a little unexpected. The ginger lemon drop martini takes a classic favorite and just throws in a warm, spiced twist that makes it pop.

This spiced ginger lemon drop cocktail has all the bright citrus you crave, plus a subtle kick of ginger and spice that balances out the sweet and tart.

When I make this drink, I try to keep things simple but still big on flavor. The lemon juice is super fresh and bright, the ginger brings that cozy warmth, and the sugar rim really ties everything together.

It’s one of those cocktails that fits for a casual night at home or if you want to impress friends at a get-together.

You’ll see—it’s honestly easy to shake up with just a few ingredients and simple steps. Once you try it, you might have a new go-to that feels classic but not boring.

Spiced Ginger Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe

I like this drink because it’s got sharp citrus, warm spice, and just enough sweetness. The way lemon juice, ginger, and vodka come together makes it refreshing but still with a nice little kick.

Equipment

I keep the tools pretty basic so there’s no fussing around. Just a few essentials make mixing and pouring way easier.

• Cocktail shaker with a tight lid so you can really shake things up
• Jigger or any small measuring thing for pouring
• Fine mesh strainer to catch pulp and pesky ice bits
• Citrus juicer for squeezing lemons fast
• Bar spoon for stirring syrup or layering flavors
• Small plate for rimming the glass with sugar
• Martini glass or coupe glass—chilled, if you remember

These basics always help me get a smooth, clean drink.

Ingredients

I stick to fresh, simple stuff so the flavors actually shine. Seriously, real lemon juice is a must—bottled just isn’t the same.

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon, give or take)
• ¾ oz simple syrup (just sugar and water, easy)
• ½ oz ginger liqueur or homemade ginger syrup
• Small piece of candied ginger for garnish
• Granulated sugar for the rim
• Lemon wheel or twist if you’re feeling fancy

This will make one drink, but I play with the sweetness or spice depending on my mood.

Instructions

I like to get everything out ahead of time so I’m not scrambling mid-shake.

• Chill your martini or coupe glass in the freezer.
• Rub a lemon wedge around the rim, then dip it in sugar.
• Pour vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ginger liqueur into a shaker.
• Add ice—about halfway full.
• Shake hard for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels frosty.
• Strain into your prepared glass.
• Garnish with candied ginger or a lemon twist.

Notes

Honestly, fresh lemon juice just tastes brighter, so I always squeeze it right before mixing. If I want more spice, I’ll make a quick ginger syrup by simmering fresh ginger with sugar and water.

The sugar rim helps take the edge off the tartness, but sometimes I skip it if I’m in the mood for something sharper. Candied ginger as a garnish is a nice sweet treat at the end.

If it comes out too strong, I’ll add a splash of cold water or shake with a little extra ice to mellow things out.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the bright lemon flavor jumps out at me. It’s fresh and crisp—almost zesty, honestly—and there’s this sharp citrus edge that really wakes up my taste buds.

The ginger spice sneaks in right after. It brings a warm little kick that balances out the sourness of the lemon, so the drink feels refreshing but with a bold twist.

There’s also this gentle sweetness in there. It smooths things out, so the cocktail doesn’t end up too tart or, you know, too fiery.

The finish? Pretty clean, with a light ginger heat that hangs around just a bit. I like how the flavors aren’t fighting for attention—they just kind of work together, simple and balanced.

Flavor highlights I notice:

• Bright citrus from lemon
• Warm spice from ginger
• Light sweetness for balance
• Crisp, clean finish