Pear Lavender Lemon Drop Martini
A floral lemon drop with pear vodka, lemon, triple sec and lavender vanilla sugar. Easy shake, elegant garnish, and simple swaps.
This is like the classic lemon drop, only mildly floral and more complex. I find plain lemon drops to be a bit boring and too sweet, so the lavender sugar was a welcome addition. This recipe couldn't be simpler!
Yield: 1 serving
- Bright lemon and pear vodka keep this cocktail fresh while lavender vanilla sugar adds a mild floral note.
- Simple 4-ingredient formula: pear vodka, lemon juice, triple sec, and lavender vanilla sugar. Shake with ice and strain.
- Easy swaps: use gin or another flavored vodka, or make a nonalcoholic version with pear juice and orange syrup.
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Preparation Instructions:
Combine all ingredients except for garnish in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously and pour into a coup or martini glass.
Garnish with lemon twist and a petite pinch of lavender buds.
Enjoy!
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More About This Recipe
The sweet pear vodka makes this taste closer to a lemon drop martini without being overly sweet. You may also substitute gin or your other favorite flavored vodka.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lavender Vanilla Sugar and how do I make it?
Combine 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender and the scraped seeds of 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix, seal in an airtight jar, and let sit 24 to 48 hours. Sift out large bits before using and store in a cool dry place.
Can I substitute plain vodka or gin for pear vodka?
Yes. Plain vodka keeps it more neutral while gin adds botanical complexity. If you use plain vodka, consider a small splash of pear juice or pear liqueur to keep the pear note.
How can I make the cocktail less sweet?
Cut the triple sec to 1/2 ounce, skip the sugared rim, or add a little more lemon juice. You can also use a drier orange liqueur such as Cointreau or reduce any added syrup.
How do I rim the glass with lavender sugar?
Rub a lemon wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into a shallow plate of lavender vanilla sugar. Use finely ground sugar so it sticks evenly.
Is it safe to eat the lavender garnish?
Yes if you use culinary grade lavender, typically Lavandula angustifolia. Do not use lavender from florists or garden centers that may be treated with pesticides.
Can I make a nonalcoholic version?
Yes. Replace pear vodka with chilled pear juice or a nonalcoholic pear spirit, and swap triple sec for orange syrup or nonalcoholic orange bitters. Increase lemon to taste to keep brightness.
How do I batch this recipe for a party?
Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings, stir in a chilled pitcher, and keep cold. For best texture, shake individual servings with ice or shake batches in a large sealed container and strain before serving.
What is Lavender Vanilla Sugar and how do I make it?
Combine 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender and the scraped seeds of 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix, seal in an airtight jar, and let sit 24 to 48 hours. Sift out large bits before using and store in a cool dry place.
Can I substitute plain vodka or gin for pear vodka?
Yes. Plain vodka keeps it more neutral while gin adds botanical complexity. If you use plain vodka, consider a small splash of pear juice or pear liqueur to keep the pear note.
How can I make the cocktail less sweet?
Cut the triple sec to 1/2 ounce, skip the sugared rim, or add a little more lemon juice. You can also use a drier orange liqueur such as Cointreau or reduce any added syrup.
How do I rim the glass with lavender sugar?
Rub a lemon wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into a shallow plate of lavender vanilla sugar. Use finely ground sugar so it sticks evenly.
Is it safe to eat the lavender garnish?
Yes if you use culinary grade lavender, typically Lavandula angustifolia. Do not use lavender from florists or garden centers that may be treated with pesticides.
Can I make a nonalcoholic version?
Yes. Replace pear vodka with chilled pear juice or a nonalcoholic pear spirit, and swap triple sec for orange syrup or nonalcoholic orange bitters. Increase lemon to taste to keep brightness.
How do I batch this recipe for a party?
Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings, stir in a chilled pitcher, and keep cold. For best texture, shake individual servings with ice or shake batches in a large sealed container and strain before serving.
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