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Homemade Limoncello

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Limoncello is a vibrant Italian liqueur made from lemon zest, alcohol, water, and sugar, known for its bright, refreshing citrus flavor and typically enjoyed as a chilled digestif.

In cocktails, limoncello pairs well with various ingredients to create a variety of drinks. Some popular limoncello cocktails include:

  1. Limoncello Spritz: Made with limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water, garnished with lemon slices and mint.
  2. Lemon Basil Martini: Combines limoncello, vodka, fresh lemon juice, and basil leaves.
  3. Limoncello Collins: A twist on the classic Tom Collins, using limoncello, gin, lemon juice, and soda water.

These cocktails are known for their bright, zesty flavors, perfect for warm weather and summer gatherings.

Here’s a simple recipe to make your own limoncello at home

Homemade Limoncello

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Limoncello is a vibrant Italian liqueur made from lemon zest, alcohol, water, and sugar.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Infuse Time 7 days
Total Time 7 days 1 hour
Servings: 32 Cocktails
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 147
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition

Ingredients
 
 

  • 10 Large Organic Lemons Look for organic lemons because you don't want any pesticides on your zest.
  • 1 Liter Vodka Preferably 100-proof (50%), 80-90-proof (40-45%) will also work just a bit slower.
  • 4 Cups Water
  • 3 Cups White Granulated Sugar

Equipment

  • Vegetable Peeler or Microplane for zesting the lemons.
  • Large Glass Jar or Container with a tight-fitting lid, for infusing the vodka with lemon zest.
  • Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth or Coffee filter for straining the lemon zest from the infused vodka.
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups
  • Funnel
  • Bottles with Tight-Fitting Lids to store finished limoncello.

Method
 

Prepare the Lemons:
  1. Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax.
  2. Use a vegetable peeler or a microplane to remove the zest from the lemons. Be careful to avoid the white pith, as it can add bitterness to your limoncello.
Infuse the Vodka:
  1. Place the lemon zest in a large glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
  2. Pour the vodka over the lemon zest, making sure it is completely submerged.
  3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 7 days, shaking the jar gently once a day.
    For a stronger lemon flavor, you can let it infuse for up to 4 weeks.
Make the Simple Syrup:
  1. After the infusion period, combine the water and sugar in a saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. No need to bring to boil. Allow the simple syrup to cool to room temperature.
Combine and Strain:
  1. Strain the lemon zest from the vodka using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth or coffee filter discarding the zest.
  2. Mix the infused vodka with one half of simple syrup at first.
    Taste and add more syrup as needed to your liking.
Bottle and Store:
  1. Pour the limoncello into clean glass bottles and seal tightly.
  2. Store the bottles in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 1 week before drinking to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 147kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 0.03gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.001gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.002gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 4mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 0.03mg

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