RestaurantsModern Southern TableLemon Shake Up Recipe

Lemon Shake Up Recipe

Time8m
Serves1

Your choice of spirit shaken up with fresh lemon and sugar

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Ingredients

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For the cocktail (per serving)

If using granulated or superfine sugar

Method

Shake and serve

1

Prepare

Chill a coupe or Collins glass in the freezer or fill with ice water to cool while you build the drink. If you are using simple syrup, have it measured and ready. If you are using granulated or superfine sugar, measure it into the shaker so it can dissolve against the lemon juice.

2

Add ingredients to shaker

In a cocktail shaker, pour 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup (or the measured superfine sugar), and 2 oz of your chosen spirit. Add the measured sugar to the shaker if using granulated; the lemon juice will help dissolve it.

3

Dry shake (if using granulated sugar)

If you used granulated or superfine sugar instead of simple syrup, first shake the ingredients without ice (a 'dry shake') for 10–12 seconds to help dissolve the sugar and emulsify the citrus.

4

Wet shake

Add ice to the shaker (about 6 oz/large handful) and shake vigorously for 12–18 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels very cold and slightly frosted. This chills, dilutes, and aerates the drink.

5

Strain and top

Double-strain the cocktail into your chilled coupe or a Collins glass filled with fresh ice (for a longer serve) to remove ice shards and any bits of pulp. If you prefer a slightly sparkling finish, top with about 1 oz club soda and give a gentle stir (1–2 rotations).

6

Garnish

Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel or a lemon twist expressed over the drink. Serve immediately.