Easy Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini (Bonefish Grill Copycat): Your Go-To Summer Cocktail Recipe
As a devoted seafood enthusiast, Bonefish Grill is consistently a top choice on my dining out list. During my last visit, I indulged in their happy hour specials and instantly fell in love with their signature blueberry lemon drop. That unforgettable taste inspired me to create my very own homemade blueberry lemon drop martini, so I can savor this exquisite cocktail anytime, right in the comfort of my home!
Understanding the Classic: What is a Lemon Drop Martini?
At its heart, a lemon drop martini is an iconic and refreshing cocktail renowned for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. This classic concoction typically features a smooth vodka base, enhanced by the citrusy notes of triple sec (or another high-quality orange liqueur), the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup to achieve its characteristic sweetness. If this tantalizing blend appeals to your palate, you might also enjoy my classic Lemon Drop Martini recipe.
However, the beauty of the lemon drop lies in its versatility. The base recipe serves as a fantastic canvas for various flavor variations. Beyond this delightful blueberry version, you can explore other exciting twists like a vibrant peach lemon drop, or my personal favorite for the cooler months, the rich and cozy pomegranate lemon drop martini – truly a standout among fall and winter cocktails.
The Bonefish Grill version of the blueberry lemon drop puts its own distinct spin on this beloved classic. They craft their cocktail using citron (lemon) flavored vodka, which intensifies the citrus notes, combined with a luscious fresh blueberry puree for a burst of fruity flavor, and a convenient sour mix that expertly handles both the sweet and tart elements in one go. This thoughtful combination makes their version uniquely delicious and remarkably easy to replicate at home. Let’s dive into creating this delightful drink!
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Key Ingredients for Your Bonefish Blueberry Lemon Drop Copycat
Crafting this exquisite cocktail requires only a few quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for both seasoned mixologists and home entertaining enthusiasts.
- 2 ounces Absolut Citron vodka: This lemon-flavored vodka is key to replicating the Bonefish Grill taste, adding an extra layer of zesty citrus.
- 2 ounces prepared sour mix: A convenient way to introduce both sweetness and tartness, simplifying the cocktail-making process.
- 2 ounces fresh blueberry puree: Made from approximately ½ cup fresh blueberries blended with 1 Tbsp water, this provides the vibrant fruit flavor and beautiful color.
For the Perfect Sugar Rim:
- Lemon wedge: Used to moisten the rim of your martini glass, allowing the sugar to adhere.
- Granulated sugar (1-2 Tbsp): Provides a delightful sweet contrast to the tartness of the martini.
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions for a Tailored Martini
- While Bonefish Grill famously uses Absolut Citron vodka, you can certainly experiment with other brands of lemon-flavored vodka or even a high-quality unflavored vodka. Be aware that the flavor profile might shift slightly, but it will still yield a delicious drink.
- If you prefer to make your own from scratch or don’t have sour mix on hand, you can easily create a balanced sweet-tart component by combining equal parts fresh lemon juice (or a mix of lemon and lime juice for added complexity) with simple syrup. This offers greater control over the sweetness level.
- Purchasing pre-made blueberry puree is an option for convenience, but making your own at home is incredibly simple and ensures the freshest flavor. Just blend fresh blueberries with a touch of water until smooth.
- For those who prefer a more classic, less fruity lemon drop martini, you can adjust the recipe by adding ½ ounce of triple sec and reducing the vodka to 1 ½ ounces. While this won’t be an exact Bonefish dupe, it will still be a wonderfully delicious and more traditional martini.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Your Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini
Creating this refreshing cocktail is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect drink every time.
- Prepare your blueberries: Start by thoroughly washing your fresh blueberries. Carefully inspect them and discard any berries that are rotten, bruised, or still have stems attached to ensure the best flavor and texture for your puree.
- Create the blueberry puree: Transfer 1 cup of cleaned blueberries into a blender or food processor. Add 2 tablespoons of water to help with blending.
- Blend until smooth: Secure the lid and blend the mixture on high speed until a consistently smooth puree is achieved. You want to ensure there are no large chunks of fruit remaining. If the mixture appears too thick or gummy, add a very small amount of additional water (half a tablespoon at a time) and blend again until it reaches your desired pourable consistency.
- Strain the puree (optional but recommended): For a truly silky-smooth martini without any fruit pulp or seeds, pour the blueberry puree through a fine mesh strainer into a separate bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to press the puree against the mesh, extracting all the liquid while leaving behind any larger particles. This step ensures a refined texture, though it’s optional if you don’t mind a little pulp.
- Prepare your martini glass: To create the signature sugar rim, take a fresh lemon wedge and run it around the outside edge of your martini glass. This will moisten the rim, allowing the sugar to stick. Next, dip the wet rim into a plate or shallow bowl containing granulated sugar. Gently twist the glass until the entire rim is evenly coated with a sparkling layer of sugar. Set aside.
- Combine ingredients in a shaker: Into a cocktail shaker, add the prepared blueberry puree, the Absolut Citron vodka, and the sour mix. Fill the shaker generously with ice cubes.
- Shake and strain: Secure the lid of the cocktail shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. You want the mixture to be thoroughly blended, slightly frothy, and very well chilled. The outside of the shaker should feel frosty. Once chilled, open the shaker and strain the vibrant blueberry lemon drop mixture into your prepared, sugar-rimmed martini glass (or a coupe glass if preferred).
- Garnish and serve: For an elegant final touch, garnish your martini. A thin slice of lemon, a lemon twist, or a skewer of fresh blueberries makes for a beautiful and aromatic presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade Bonefish Grill copycat!
Explore More Irresistible Blueberry Cocktails
Blueberry Vodka Lemonade: Refreshing Summer Cocktail!
The Easiest Blueberry Gin Cocktail You’ll Ever Make
Easy Lavender Margarita For Spring & Summer Sipping!
Blueberry Mojito: Easy Fruity White Rum Cocktail!
- Blueberry French 75: A sophisticated sparkling cocktail.
- Blueberry Tequila Smash: A vibrant and zesty tequila-based drink.
Any leftover blueberry puree from this recipe can be perfectly utilized to craft these equally delicious blueberry cocktails. Don’t let a single drop of that fresh fruit flavor go to waste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Your Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini
What Exactly is a Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini?
A blueberry lemon drop martini is a delightful and visually appealing cocktail, serving as a fruity variation of the classic lemon drop. It combines a crisp vodka base with the bright tang of lemon, the sweet essence of simple syrup, and the vibrant flavor of fresh blueberries. The Bonefish Grill rendition, which this recipe emulates, specifically opts for sour mix instead of separate lemon juice and simple syrup, streamlining the preparation process while maintaining that signature sweet-tart balance.
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries for the Puree?
Absolutely, you can use frozen blueberries, especially when fresh ones are out of season or unavailable. For the best results, allow them to thaw slightly at room temperature before blending. Thawing helps release their juices more readily, ensuring a smoother and more flavorful puree. There might be a slight difference in consistency compared to fresh, but the taste will still be fantastic.
What’s the Best Type of Vodka for This Martini?
For an exceptional blueberry lemon drop martini, a high-quality, smooth vodka is always recommended. The smoother the vodka, the less it will interfere with the delicate fruit and lemon flavors. To perfectly mimic the Bonefish Grill experience, using a citrus-flavored vodka, such as Absolut Citron, is ideal as it amplifies the lemony notes in the drink. However, a good unflavored vodka will also work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Make Simple Syrup if I Don’t Have Sour Mix?
If you prefer not to use prepared sour mix, making your own simple syrup is incredibly easy. Simply combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring continuously until all the sugar crystals have completely dissolved. Do not boil. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool completely before using. You can store homemade simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month, making it a handy staple for many cocktails.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version of This Drink?
Yes, absolutely! Creating a delicious non-alcoholic blueberry lemon drop mocktail is simple. Just substitute the vodka with either a good quality lemonade, a lemon-flavored sparkling water, or even a non-alcoholic spirit designed to mimic vodka. You might need to adjust the sweetness and tartness levels by adding a bit more simple syrup or a splash of fresh lemon juice, depending on the base you choose and your personal taste preference.
What’s the Best Way to Serve a Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini?
For an optimal drinking experience, always serve your blueberry lemon drop martini in a chilled martini glass. Chilling the glass beforehand helps keep your cocktail colder for longer, enhancing its refreshing qualities. For a touch of elegance and to truly capture the Bonefish Grill style, don’t forget to rim the glass with sugar. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist, a thin lemon slice, or a skewer of whole blueberries to add visual appeal and a fragrant aroma.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness and Tartness to My Liking?
Achieving the perfect balance of sweet and tart is a matter of personal preference, and easily adjustable. If you find your martini too tart, you can increase the sweetness by adding a bit more blueberry puree, a touch more simple syrup, or even a small amount of agave nectar or honey. Conversely, if you prefer a more tart cocktail, simply add an extra splash of sour mix or fresh lemon juice. Keep in mind that the natural sweetness of blueberries can vary, so taste and adjust as you go!
Pro Tips for Crafting the Ultimate Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini
Elevate your homemade cocktail game with these expert tips:
- Chill your drink with frozen berries: Instead of simply using ice cubes, consider adding a few frozen blueberries directly to your martini glass. They’ll not only help keep your drink perfectly chilled with minimal dilution but also slowly release additional color and fresh blueberry flavor as they melt, enhancing the overall experience.
- Adjust for desired strength: This recipe, as written, offers a beautifully balanced and moderately strong drink. If you prefer a stronger cocktail, feel free to increase the amount of vodka to your personal taste. Always remember to drink responsibly.
- Fine-tune the flavor balance: The balance between sweet and sour is crucial for any lemon drop. If your drink leans too tart, incorporate additional sweetness using simple syrup, a hint of honey, or agave nectar. If you desire a more pronounced tartness, a splash of fresh lemon juice can do wonders. Remember, the natural sweetness of your blueberries can vary, so taste-testing and adjusting is key to achieving your perfect martini.
Blueberry Martini Storage and Elegant Presentation Tips
- While the iconic martini glass is the traditional vessel for this elegant cocktail, a charming coupe glass is an equally excellent choice for presentation. In a pinch, a white wine glass or even a highball glass can comfortably hold and display your delicious creation.
- Given the fresh fruit content, a blueberry lemon drop martini is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to savor its peak freshness and vibrant flavors. However, if you’re planning a gathering or entertaining guests, you can mix the base (vodka, sour mix, and blueberry puree) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply scale the recipe for multiple servings, mix everything together in a pitcher, and store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, just give it a quick stir, pour into your chilled, sugar-rimmed glasses, add your chosen garnish, and enjoy! This pre-batching method makes entertaining a breeze.
Discover More Delightful Fruity Martini Recipes
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini: Easy Sweet Cocktail
Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini: Sweet Valentine’s Drink
Pink Lemon Drop Martini With Pink Whitney Vodka
- Blackberry Martini: A deep, rich, and slightly tart martini.
- Blood Orange Martini: A beautifully colored and tangy citrus martini.
- Midori Melon Martini: A sweet and uniquely flavored green martini.
Final Thoughts on Your Homemade Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini
This easy blueberry lemon drop martini recipe is more than just a drink; it’s a delightful copycat of the popular Bonefish Grill social hour special, brought right into your kitchen. The simple combination of fresh blueberry puree, zesty lemon-flavored vodka, and a perfectly balanced sweet and sour kick results in a truly delicious and refreshing cocktail option that’s sure to impress.
The beauty of making this martini at home lies in your ability to customize it. While the Bonefish version offers a fantastic starting point, you have the freedom to experiment. For a more traditional martini profile, you could easily incorporate a splash of triple sec and adjust the vodka quantity. Alternatively, if you prefer to avoid the prepared sour mix, a blend of fresh lemon juice and simple syrup provides a more artisanal touch. This flexibility is a significant advantage of homemade cocktails over restaurant versions!
Ultimately, whether you stick to the copycat recipe or personalize it to your taste, this blueberry lemon drop martini is a wonderfully refreshing drink, especially perfect for spring and summer when fresh blueberries are abundant and vibrant lemons are readily available. Serve these exquisite martinis at your next brunch gathering, a lively backyard barbecue, by the poolside, or simply as a sophisticated treat for a relaxing evening. Cheers to a truly fantastic homemade cocktail experience!
Katie’s tip
For another incredibly refreshing drink that also utilizes the bright notes of citron vodka, be sure to check out my Spring Spritzer Cocktail!
Easy Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini (Bonefish Copycat)
Equipment
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Liquid measuring cup
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Blender (or food processor)
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Fine mesh strainer (optional)
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Shaker (or similar)
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Martini glass (or similar)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Absolut citron vodka
- 2 ounces prepared sour mix
- 2 ounces blueberry puree (from ½ cup fresh blueberries + 1 Tbsp water)
For the Rim
- 1 lemon wedge
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (amount approximate)
Instructions
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Wash your blueberries and discard any rotten berries and stems
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Place 1 cup of blueberries and 2 Tbsp of water into a blender or food processor
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Blend on high until a smooth consistency is reached (there should be no large chunks). You can add a little extra water if needed if it seems too gummy
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Run the puree through a fine mesh strainer to catch any larger particles (optional, only if you don’t want fruit chunks in your drink)
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To rim your glass, run a fresh lemon wedge around the outside rim. Dip the wet edge into a plate or shallow bowl with granulated sugar on it, and turn until the glass is coated1 lemon wedge, 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
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Add the blueberry puree, vodka, and sour mix to a cocktail shaker along with a few ice cubes2 ounces Absolut citron vodka, 2 ounces blueberry puree, 2 ounces prepared sour mix
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Shake until well blended, slightly frothy, and chilled, about 20-30 seconds, then strain into a chilled martini glass (or similar)
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Garnish with a slice of lemon or some fresh blueberries on a skewer (optional) and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use another brand of citron vodka if needed, but Bonefish uses Absolut, so the flavor may change slightly
- If you don’t have sour mix, you can do a 50/50 mixture of fresh lemon and/or lime juice to simple syrup
- You can buy prepared blueberry puree, but I usually just make my own since it’s pretty simple!
- For a more traditional martini, you can add ½ ounce of triple sec and only 1 ½ ounces of vodka, but that will change the flavor and not be a Bonefish dupe (but still delicious)!
- You can add some frozen blueberries to your glass in lieu of chilling the glasses. They’ll add color and flavor, while keeping your drink chilled with minimal dilution
- As written, this drink is on the lower end strength-wise. If you prefer a stronger drink, add more vodka to taste
- To adjust sweetness levels, add some simple syrup, honey, or agave for additional sweetness, or add fresh lemon juice to add more tartness. As is, it’s pretty well balanced between sweet and sour (though a lot depends on your blueberries and how sweet they are, as fruit can vary a lot naturally)
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any garnishes added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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