The whole purpose of a good drink is to elevate one’s day; a refreshing cocktail would surely fit the bill. For me, the Applebee’s Blue Raspberry Lemon Drop is one of those drinks that always hits the spot. Fruity, sour, and sweet with a good kith, this drink just pulls out all the stops. What makes it even better is that you don’t have to go to Applebee’s every time; you could just as easily prepare it at home in a matter of minutes.

What is Applebee’s Blue Raspberry Lemon Drop All About?

This cocktail contains vibrant blue raspberry flavoring, lemon juice, vodka, and a little bit of simple syrup for that sweet touch. It’s bright blue, it’s great fun to serve, and it gets that nice tart lemon getting even with the candy sweetness of the raspberry. Kind of like a grown-up version of the blue raspberry slushie you adored as a kid, except better.

Ingredients

For the cocktail:

2 oz vodka (plain or citrus)
1 oz blue raspberry syrup (or blue curaçao for more punch)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
Ice cubes

For garnish:

Lemon slice or twist
Sugar for rim (optional)

Instructions

Take a lemon wedge and run it all around in a circle on the rim of your glass before dipping it in sugar for the sugar rim.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Into the shaker, add vodka, blue raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Shake for about 15 seconds or longer, until nice and chilled.
Strain into your prepared glass.
Garnish with a slice of lemon or twist and enjoy!

Storage Tips

This cocktail is best made fresh.
If you want to prepare the drink in advance, mix the vodka, lemon juice, and syrup in a sealed jar and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shake with ice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

For an Applebee’s vibe, serve up in martini glasses.
Serve up with appetizers of any kind, like mozzarella sticks, wings, or sliders.
Make a pitcher version for a party—just multiply the recipe.

Pro Tips & Variations

Swap out the vodka for lemon vodka for an extra citrus kick.
Instead of the blue raspberry syrup, use blue curaçao so you can get it with a more blatantly boozy flavor.
Add a splash of bubbly for a lighter, fizzy drink.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to make this without alcohol?

Yes! Skip the vodka and make a lemonade with blue raspberry syrup for a mocktail.

2. What can I use instead of blue raspberry syrup?

You can always go ahead with blue curaçao or even blueberry syrup, and you will still get the effect.

3. Is this drink sweet?

It’s sweet, yes, but not overwhelmingly so, and lemon juice helps balance it. Add or subtract the simple syrup to suit personal taste.

4. Is it possible to make it keto?

Yes, use sugar-free simple syrup and sugar-free blue raspberry mix.

Try It!

Now, Applebee’s Blue Raspberry Lemon Drop is really fun and colorful and super easy to make in your kitchen. Mix it for yourself or a whole batch for your very next party-there isn’t one person who won’t be impressed. Give it a try; you just might find that it becomes your new favorite cocktail!