Key Lime Martini Recipe

Key Limes are an interesting fruit since are so synonymous with one dessert, Key Lime Pie. The fruit itself is slightly sweeter than its typical counterpart, usually called Persian Limes, but the condensed milk in the pie is what really adds sweetness to what we all know and love. I wanted to create a recipe that wasn’t quite as sweet as the pie, not too heavy, and gluten-free and dairy-free. This is a fusion of a Classic Gimlet and an Italian-inspired Limoncello Martini. It’s sweet, tart, and refreshing. Enjoy!

Jump to my Key Lime Martini Recipe

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Key Lime Simple Syrup

A LOT of Very Obsessed cocktails use infused simple syrup because they are easy to make, what isn’t used can be stored, and adds a ton of flavor. There is a depth of flavor that fruit-infused simple syrup adds to the drink that is different than fresh juice.

Since it can be very hard to capture citrus flavoring I’ve replaced the usual water in this simple syrup recipe with lime juice and the vanilla adds extra depth. This recipe makes enough for 2 cocktails, but if you have extra lime juice it’s easy to double or triple batch this and store it in an airtight glass bottle in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.

What Tools Do You Need to Make a Key Lime Martini?

• Zester | Combining the zest of the lime with granulated sugar makes an excellent rim.
• Coupe Glasses | These glasses are great for martinis and Champagne.
• Cocktail Shaker | I have this one because it’s got a clean design, a built-in strainer, and doesn’t leak

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Key Lime Martini Recipe

Servings: 1

Ingredients

KEY LIME SIMPLE SYRUP:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup key lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

KEY LIME MARTINI:

• 2 oz vodka (I prefer Grey Goose)
• 2 oz key lime simple syrup
• ½ key lime (regular lime if not available), for rim
• Granulated sugar, for rim

Directions

1. Add ½ cup of key lime juice and ½ cup of granulated sugar to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the vanilla and reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken.
3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature which will take about 25 minutes.
4. To rim the glass, zest key lime peel and mix with granulated sugar. Rub the lime on half the rim of the glass and roll in the lime and sugar mixture.
5. Fill the martini shaker halfway with ice, and add vodka and the key lime simple syrup.
6. Shake vigorously for about 12 seconds or until you get a little foam and pour it into a glass, straining the ice.
7. Enjoy!

Tip: If Key Limes are in season you can substitute fresh key lime juice for bottled. Adding peel to the simple syrup at the same time as the vanilla will enhance the flavor, but make sure only to use the peel, not the white pith as it can be bitter and may alter the flavor.

More Summer Fruit Martini Recipes:

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