Limoncello is a traditional Italian liqueur made from fresh lemon zest, pure alcohol, and simple syrup. Bright, fragrant, and sweet with just the right amount of citrus bite, it’s a cherished after-dinner digestif along the Amalfi Coast and throughout Italy. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can craft this golden liqueur at home—perfect for sipping chilled, drizzling over desserts, or gifting in beautiful bottles. This recipe stays true to the authentic method, giving you the vibrant, sunshine-filled flavor of Italy in every sip.
INGREDIENTS:
1 liter (1000 ml) Everclear alcohol
10 medium to large lemons
1 1/2 liters of water (6 1/3 cups)
3 pounds of sugar (6 1/2 cups)
METHOD:
Scrub the lemons well with hot water and a vegetable brush to remove any residue. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
Using a vegetable peeler, remove the lemon peel, taking only the yellow outer rind and avoiding the bitter white pith.
Place the lemon peel in a large glass container. Pour in the Everclear, cover tightly, and store in a cool, dark place for 7 days.
On the eighth day, strain out the peels and discard them, reserving the infused alcohol.
In a large saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a rolling boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
Add the cooled syrup to the infused alcohol, stirring gently to blend.
Pour into sterilized glass bottles, seal, and store. Limoncello improves as it rests—chill before serving for best flavor.
NOTE: To make Arancello (orange liqueur), substitute 10 large oranges for the lemons.
YIELD: Makes about 2 1/2 liters
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
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Classic Italian Style: Serve well-chilled in small glasses after dinner as a digestivo. Keep a bottle in the freezer so it’s always ready to pour.
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Dessert Drizzle: Spoon a little over vanilla gelato, panna cotta, or lemon sorbet for an elegant finish.
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Cocktails: Use limoncello as a base for refreshing cocktails—try mixing with Prosecco and a splash of soda for a sparkling spritz, or shake with vodka and lemon juice for a bright martini.
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Baking: Brush over sponge cakes or add to icings and glazes for a subtle lemony kick.
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Gifts: Bottle in decorative glass jars with a ribbon and label for a homemade holiday or hostess gift.
