How to Make Authentic Homemade Limoncello

Simple Summary

Limoncello is a vibrant, zesty Italian liqueur that captures the essence of sun-ripened lemons. This homemade version offers a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus, ideal for sipping or adding a bright touch to cocktails.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Infusion Time: 4 weeks
• Total Time: 4 weeks and 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 1.5 liters
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 10 organic lemons, washed and dried
• 750 ml (1 bottle) of 100 proof vodka or grain alcohol
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 3 cups water

Instructions

1. Carefully zest the lemons using a microplane or vegetable peeler, ensuring you only get the yellow part and avoid the bitter white pith.

2. Place the lemon zest in a large, clean glass jar.

3. Pour the entire bottle of vodka or grain alcohol over the lemon zest.

4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4 weeks, shaking the jar gently every few days.

5. After 4 weeks, strain the alcohol through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove the lemon zest.

6. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.

7. Mix the cooled syrup with the infused alcohol in a large bowl or container.

8. Using a funnel, transfer the limoncello into clean bottles.

9. Seal the bottles and store in the freezer for at least 4 hours before serving.

Chef's Notes

• Use organic lemons to avoid any pesticides or wax on the skin.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, you can infuse for up to 6 weeks.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to taste.
• Store limoncello in the freezer for up to a year. The high alcohol content prevents it from freezing solid.
• For a creamier version, replace half of the water with whole milk when making the syrup.

Nutritional Info

Limoncello is typically consumed in small amounts as a digestif. A 1.5 oz (45 ml) serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugar: 17g
• Alcohol: 15-30% by volume

While not nutritionally dense, limoncello does contain small amounts of vitamin C from the lemon zest.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled in small cordial glasses as an after-dinner digestif.
• Use as a flavoring in cocktails, such as a Limoncello Spritz or Lemon Drop Martini.
• Drizzle over fresh berries or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Pair with light, citrusy desserts like lemon sorbet or lemon cookies.
• Offer as part of an Italian-themed aperitivo hour alongside olives, cheese, and crostini.