Go Back
–+ servings

Homemade Limoncello

Limoncello is a vibrant Italian liqueur made from lemon zest, alcohol, water, and sugar.
Servings 32 Cocktails
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Infuse Time 7 days
Total Time 7 days 1 hour

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.

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
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Prepare the Lemons:

  • Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax.
  • 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:

  • Place the lemon zest in a large glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Pour the vodka over the lemon zest, making sure it is completely submerged.
  • 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:

  • After the infusion period, combine the water and sugar in a saucepan.
  • 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:

  • Strain the lemon zest from the vodka using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth or coffee filter discarding the zest.
  • 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:

  • Pour the limoncello into clean glass bottles and seal tightly.
  • 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
Calories: 147kcal
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Alcohol