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Poolside Lemon Shots with Pink Sugar Rim

A bright, tangy, and visually stunning lemon and vodka shot, featuring a glistening hot pink sugar rim and lime garnish, perfect for pool parties and summer gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 5 Shots
Course: Beverage, Drinks, Snack
Cuisine: American, Summer
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Rim & Garnish
  • 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar for rim
  • 2-3 drops Hot Pink Gel Food Coloring or pre-colored pink sugar
  • 1 large Fresh Lime for rimming and garnish
Shot Liquid
  • 5 oz Vodka your choice of brand
  • 2.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice freshly squeezed, not bottled
  • 1.25 oz Simple Syrup 1:1 ratio
  • 0.25 cup Ice Cubes for shaker

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • 5 Shot Glasses
  • Jigger or measuring cups
  • Citrus Juicer

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Hot Pink Rimming Sugar: In a small dish, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 2-3 drops of hot pink gel food coloring using a fork until vibrant magenta. (You can skip this if using pre-colored sugar).
  2. Slice the Lime: Cut the lime in half. Use one half for rimming, and slice the other half into 5 thin, even wheels. Cut a small slot into each lime wheel and set aside.
  3. Rim the Glasses: Run the lime wedge half around the outside edge of each shot glass rim. Dip the wet rim directly into the dish of pink sugar, twisting slightly for an even coating.
  4. Mix the Drink: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.
  5. Shake to Chill: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the shaker is frosty.
  6. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture evenly into the pre-rimmed shot glasses.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Slot one thin lime wheel onto the rim of each glass and serve poolside immediately.

Notes

Ensure you juice your lemons freshly; it makes all the difference. For party batching, multiply the liquid ingredients in a large pitcher, chill, and shake with ice just before serving. Use hot pink gel coloring for the most vibrant color.