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Cayenne Pepper Shot

A bold, spicy shooter combining vodka, fresh lemon juice, honey, and cayenne pepper that's quick to prepare and perfect as a wellness or party shot.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 shots
Course: Cocktail, Shot
Cuisine: American
Calories: 85

Ingredients
  

Main
  • Vodka: 4 ounces or tequila, bourbon, or your preferred spirit
  • Fresh lemon juice: 2 ounces
  • Honey: 1 tablespoon
  • Cayenne pepper: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon adjust to taste
  • Water: 2 ounces
  • Sea salt: pinch for rimming optional

Equipment

  • Shot glasses (1.5 ounce capacity)
  • Jigger for measuring
  • Small mixing bowl or pitcher
  • bar spoon or regular spoon for stirring
  • Citrus juicer or hand squeezer
  • Fine-mesh strainer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cut one fresh lemon in half and squeeze out 2 ounces of juice using a citrus juicer or hand squeezer.
  2. Pour 4 ounces of vodka into a small mixing bowl or pitcher, then add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and 2 ounces of water.
  3. Start with 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, add it to the mixture, and taste a small sample to gauge the heat level.
  4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey and whisk vigorously until the honey dissolves completely.
  5. Use a bar spoon or regular spoon to stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the cayenne is evenly distributed.
  6. Optional: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any cayenne particles for a smoother texture.
  7. Pour the strained mixture evenly into four 1.5-ounce shot glasses, filling each glass about three-quarters full.
  8. Chill the filled shot glasses in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes until ice-cold, or serve immediately at room temperature.

Notes

Serve as a bold standalone shooter, wellness shot, or alongside spicy appetizers. Increase honey and lemon juice to reduce heat without diluting flavor.