Prep Time: 30 minutes
Infusion Time: 14 days
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 14 days, 1 hour, and 40 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Yield: About 1.5 liters
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 10 organic lemons
- 750 ml high-proof vodka (40–50% alcohol)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Wash the lemons thoroughly under warm water to remove any wax or residue. Dry them completely with a clean towel. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove only the yellow zest, avoiding the white pith, which can make the liqueur bitter.
Step 2: Infuse the Alcohol
Place all of the lemon zest into a large sterilized glass jar. Pour the vodka over the zest, ensuring every piece is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 14 days. Shake the jar gently every two to three days to help the flavors develop.
Step 3: Make the Simple Syrup
After the infusion period, combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil vigorously. Remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
Step 4: Strain the Infusion
Pour the lemon-infused alcohol through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or pitcher. Discard the lemon zest once all the liquid has been strained.
Step 5: Combine
Mix the cooled simple syrup with the strained lemon alcohol. Stir thoroughly until fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding a little more syrup.
Step 6: Bottle and Rest
Transfer the finished Limoncello into sterilized glass bottles using a funnel. Seal tightly and allow it to rest for at least seven additional days to let the flavors blend and mellow.
Step 7: Serve
Store the bottles in the freezer. Serve Limoncello ice cold in small chilled glasses as a digestif or use it in cocktails and desserts.
Tips for Success
- Choose unwaxed organic lemons for the best flavor.
- Avoid including any white pith when peeling the lemons.
- Allow enough infusion time for a rich citrus flavor.
- Sterilize all bottles and jars before use.
- Keep the finished Limoncello in the freezer for the smoothest texture.
- The flavor continues to improve after several weeks of aging.
Serving Suggestions
Limoncello is delicious served straight from the freezer after a meal. It also pairs beautifully with fruit tarts, lemon cake, vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, and creamy cheesecakes. You can even add a splash to sparkling water, prosecco, or cocktails for a refreshing citrus twist.
Storage
Store bottled Limoncello in the freezer for up to one year. The alcohol prevents it from freezing solid, keeping it perfectly chilled and ready to serve at any time.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 145
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Sugar: 16 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Potassium: 8 mg
- Fiber: 0 g
- Vitamin C: 2 mg