Are you ready to pucker up with a burst of citrusy goodness? Look no further! Lemon drops are a classic flavor combination that never goes out of style. The tangy sweetness of lemons paired with the richness of sugar or cream is a match made in heaven. In this article, we’re shining the spotlight on 18 zesty lemon drop recipes that will leave you hooked. From sweet treats like cupcakes and cookies to refreshing drinks and desserts, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a simple treat to brighten up your day, these lemon drop recipes are sure to impress. So sit back, get ready to indulge in some serious citrusy goodness, and let’s dive into the world of lemon drops!
Classic Lemon Drop Martini
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this refreshing twist on a classic martini. The perfect blend of tart and sweet, this Lemon Drop Martini is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a martini glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and serve.
Lemon Drop Cupcakes with Citrus Glaze
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the warmth of lemon zest and the sweetness of powdered sugar, topped with a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before glazing.
Citrus Glaze:
– Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth.
– Drizzle over cooled cupcakes.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Cheesecake Bars
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Lemon Drop Cheesecake Bars, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in lemon juice and powdered sugar. Pour over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Garnish with lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sparkling Lemon Drop Cocktail
Brighten up your evening with this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. This Sparkling Lemon Drop combines the sweetness of lemon and vodka with the effervescence of sparkling water.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Lemon Drop Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon drop sugar cookies! A burst of citrus flavor and a touch of sweetness make them perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
– 1 egg
– Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add lemon juice and mix until well combined.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Pound Cake
Brighten up your day with this tangy and sweet lemon pound cake, perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with lemon juice and zest, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Drop Jelly Shots
These bite-sized treats are perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a burst of citrusy fun. With a tangy lemon flavor and a sweet surprise in the center, these jelly shots are sure to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– Food coloring (yellow and white)
– Lemon extract or zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the softened gelatin and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and add yellow food coloring to tint the mixture.
5. Pour into small cups or molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, add a few drops of lemon extract or zest on top (optional).
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Drop Meringue Pie
Brighten up your dessert game with this tangy and sweet Lemon Drop Meringue Pie! A classic combination of citrusy lemon curd, flaky pie crust, and toasted meringue topping will leave your taste buds singing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, cold
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the pie crust by combining cold butter, flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse until crumbly. Press into a pie dish.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the lemon curd by whisking together lemon juice, confectioners’ sugar, and egg yolks in a bowl.
5. Pour the lemon curd into the baked pie crust and smooth out.
6. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Top with meringue topping (see recipe) and bake for 10-15 minutes more.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Drop Sorbet
Lemon Drop Sorbet Recipe: A refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a burst of citrus flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Total time: approximately 3-4 hours (including chilling time)
– Churning time: about 20-30 minutes
Lemon Drop Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito. The combination of lemon, mint, and rum creates a zesty and revitalizing drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz triple sec or Cointreau
– 1/2 cup mint leaves
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and triple sec to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon wedge and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Lemon Drop Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these citrusy shortbread cookies, infused with the warmth of lemon zest and the sweetness of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Tart with Raspberry Coulis
Lemon Drop Tart with Raspberry Coulis: A Bright and Tangy Dessert
This tart combines the sweetness of lemon curd with the tartness of a lemon drop cookie crust, topped with a rich raspberry coulis. Perfect for springtime or any occasion that calls for a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup lemon curd
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow crust to cool before spreading lemon curd evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle raspberry coulis over the lemon curd and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Drop Infused Vodka
Infuse the sweet and tangy flavors of lemon drops into vodka to create a unique and refreshing spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of vodka (750ml)
– 1 cup of lemon drops (approximately 20-25 pieces)
– Water
Instructions:
1. Cut the lemon drops in half to release their flavor and oils.
2. Place the lemon drop halves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Pour the vodka over the lemon drops, making sure they are completely covered.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. After 2 weeks, strain the vodka through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container. Discard the solids and reserve the flavored vodka.
Cooking Time: 14-28 days
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of lemon drops to your taste preferences.
– Experiment with different flavor combinations by adding other ingredients like citrus peels, herbs, or spices to the infusion process.
– Consider using a vacuum sealer or Mason jar with a tight-fitting lid for added protection against contamination.
Lemon Drop Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of panna cotta, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a light and airy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the warm cream mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 4 hours or overnight)
Lemon Drop Margarita
Brighten up your day with this refreshing twist on the classic margarita, infused with the sweetness of lemon and a hint of tartness.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila (silver or reposado)
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce agave syrup
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lemon wheel and lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lemon juice, triple sec, and agave syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Lemon Drop Marshmallows
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with the brightness of lemon zest adding a delightful twist to classic marshmallows. They’re easy to make and perfect for snacking or using as a creative topping for hot chocolate or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gelatin
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the softened gelatin, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a marshmallow mold. Let it set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
6. Once set, remove the marshmallows from the mold or cut them into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Drop Granita
Beat the heat with this light and zesty granita, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix. This lemony delight is made with just a few ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, lemon juice, and water until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the simple syrup.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Place the pan in the freezer and let it sit for at least 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to scrape off any forming ice crystals.
5. After 2 hours, use a fork to break up any remaining ice crystals and fluff the mixture.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! Just let it freeze.
Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Drop Granita!
Lemon Drop White Chocolate Truffles
Brighten up your day with these tangy-sweet treats! These bite-sized truffles combine the citrusy zing of lemon curd with the creamy richness of white chocolate and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Stir in butter, confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold in lemon curd until fully incorporated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to firm up.
5. Scoop out small balls of the mixture (about 1 inch) and roll into smooth spheres.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Summary
Get ready to pucker up with these 18 mouthwatering lemon drop recipes! From classic cocktails like the Sparkling Lemon Drop Cocktail, to sweet treats like Lemon Drop Cupcakes and Lemon Drop Cheesecake Bars, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a unique twist, try making Lemon Drop Jelly Shots or infusing vodka with lemon zest. Or, satisfy your sweet tooth with Lemon Drop Pound Cake or Lemon Drop White Chocolate Truffles. Whatever your taste buds desire, these zesty recipes are sure to hit the spot!
