I recently discovered the Lemon Meringue Martini, and it instantly became my favorite. I love how this alcoholic drink captures the essence of a lemon meringue pie in a glass. You’ll love its refreshing yet indulgent flavor.
Contents
Lemon Meringue Martini recipe
Lemon Meringue Martini is a delightful twist on classic cocktails. This drink is inspired by the classic lemon meringue pie. It blends the tangy flavor of lemon with the creamy sweetness of meringue, creating a dessert-like drink.

Unlike the pie, the Lemon Meringue Martini is easy to make. It combines lemon-flavored vodka, Limoncello liqueur, simple syrup, lemon juice, and cream or half-and-half.
The Lemon Meringue cocktail is suitable for summer evenings or as an alternative to traditional desserts. This “cocktail-pudding hybrid” is ideal for those who prefer dessert cocktails over heavy sweets.
Here is how to make the Lemon Meringue Martini:

Lemon Meringue Martini
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 60 ml lemon vodka or vanilla vodka
- 60 ml Limoncello liqueur
- 30 ml simple syrup adjust to taste
- 30 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 egg white
- Crushed graham crackers for rimming the glasses
- Lemon zest for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Pour a small amount of simple syrup onto a plate. On another plate, place the crushed graham crackers.
- Dip the rim of each martini glass in the syrup, allowing any excess to drip off, and then gently press it into the graham cracker crumbs. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the lemon vodka, Limoncello liqueur, simple syrup, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared Martini glasses, dividing it equally between the two.
- In a separate bowl, add the egg white and dry shake (shake without ice) for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes frothy.
- Carefully spoon the frothy egg white on top of each Martini, creating a "meringue" layer.
- Optionally, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue for a golden finish.
- Garnish each Martini with a twist of lemon zest or sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top.
Notes
How to pair
The Lemon Meringue cocktail, with its sweet and tart flavor profile, pairs well with a variety of foods.
- Desserts
- Meringue kisses mirror the cocktail’s topping.
- Cheesecake contrasts the cocktail’s tartness.
- Lemon bars enhance the martini’s citrus notes.
- Lemon tarts are a great pair.
- Shortbread cookies complement the drink’s texture.
- Key lime pie pairs well with the martini.
- Vanilla panna cotta complements the drink’s creamy vodka base.
- Lemon macarons accompany the martini’s citrus notes.
- Light Appetizers
- Goat cheese crostini complements the citrusy martini.
- Smoked salmon canapés balance the drink’s sweetness.
- Shrimp cocktail enhances seafood flavors.
- Crispy calamari pairs well with the drink’s creamy texture.
- Bruschetta with lemon ricotta adds a citrusy harmony.
- Main Courses
- Grilled lemon herb chicken mirrors the martini’s flavor.
- Seared scallops complement the cocktail’s tartness.
- Lemon pepper pasta echoes the martini’s citrus notes.
- Vegetable risotto matches the drink’s texture.
Variations
Here are some notable adaptations of the Lemon Meringue Martini:
- Toasted Version features marshmallow-infused or vanilla vodka, limoncello, and toasted marshmallow garnish.
- Lemon-Lime Meringue Martini incorporates lime juice and citron vodka. The flavor resembles lemon meringue and key lime pie.
- Lemon Raspberry Meringue Martini uses raspberry liqueur for a fruity twist. This martini offers a sweeter alternative to citrus flavors.
- Honey Addition uses honey. Egg whites and bitters create balance.
- Citrus Addition combines orange vodka, Grand Marnier, and limoncello. The flavor is citrus-forward with orange accents.
- Whiskey Sour Lemon Meringue Martini blends whiskey sour and lemon meringue flavors.