Name: Lemoncello Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-483802H51M17S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8-10 organic lemons (preferably unwaxed); 750 ml high-proof alcohol (e.g., vodka or grain alcohol); 3 cups (600g) granulated sugar; 4 cups (950ml) water; Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter taste.; Opt for cane sugar for a more natural sweetener.; Try a gluten-free vodka for a gluten-free version.

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If you’ve ever sipped on a sweet, citrusy Limoncello after a hearty Italian meal, you know the magic of this golden liqueur. The good news? You can make your own homemade Lemoncello recipe with just a handful of ingredients and a little patience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a refreshing after-dinner drink, this easy-to-follow recipe will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Requires only lemons, alcohol, sugar, and water.
Easy to Make: No special equipment needed—just a jar and some time.

Rich, Authentic Flavor: Infused with fresh lemon zest for a bright and smooth taste.
Great for Gifting: Bottle it up for a homemade, heartfelt gift.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and alcohol content to your liking.

Ingredients Needed

8-10 organic lemons (preferably unwaxed)
750 ml high-proof alcohol (e.g., vodka or grain alcohol)
3 cups (600g) granulated sugar

4 cups (950ml) water

Ingredient Substitutions:

Use Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter taste.

Opt for cane sugar for a more natural sweetener.
Try a gluten-free vodka for a gluten-free version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Lemons: Wash the lemons thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the zest (only the yellow part, avoiding the bitter white pith).

Infuse the Alcohol: Place the lemon zest in a large glass jar and pour the alcohol over it. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 7 days (or up to a month for a stronger flavor).

Make the Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool.

Combine & Strain: Once the infusion period is over, strain the alcohol to remove the zest. Mix it with the cooled syrup.

Bottle & Chill: Pour the Limoncello into sterilized bottles and let it rest in the fridge or freezer for a couple of days before serving.

Recipe Tips & Variations

Stronger Limoncello: Let the zest steep for up to 40 days.
Less Sweet Version: Reduce the sugar by half.

Herbal Twist: Add basil or mint during the steeping process for a unique flavor.
Creamy Limoncello: Replace some of the water with heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture.

How to Store & Serve

Storage: Keep Limoncello in the refrigerator or freezer. It can last up to a year when stored properly in a sealed bottle.
Serving: Enjoy it chilled, straight from the freezer, in small glasses. It’s also great in cocktails or drizzled over desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use regular supermarket lemons?
Yes, but organic unwaxed lemons are best since you’ll be using the zest.

2. What alcohol is best for Limoncello?
High-proof vodka or grain alcohol works best for extracting the lemon oils.

3. How long does homemade Limoncello last?
If stored properly in the fridge or freezer, it can last up to a year.

4. Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes! Substitute the alcohol with a mixture of water and lemon juice, but keep in mind the flavor will differ.

Now that you know how to make your own Lemoncello recipe, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, this refreshing Italian liqueur is sure to impress. If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments or share your results on social media. Cheers to homemade Limoncello!