Rating: 3.58
(56)

Limoncello

March 17, 2025

Limoncello liqueur is an authentic traditional Italian liqueur made by infusing lemon peels in alcohol and mixing it with a simple syrup, resulting in a refreshing and zesty drink perfect for enjoying as a digestif or using in cocktails. For a healthier version, you can try a non-alcoholic limoncello recipe.

Limoncello is a vibrant, citrusy Italian liqueur that’s beloved for its refreshing, sweet-tart flavor. Made from the zest of fresh lemons, sugar, and alcohol, this bright yellow drink hails from the Amalfi Coast and is a staple in Italian culture. Known for its bold lemon taste, Limoncello is typically served chilled, making it a perfect after-dinner digestif to cleanse the palate. Its tangy, sweet flavor and smooth texture have made it a popular drink both in Italy and around the world.

The process of making Limoncello liqueur starts with steeping lemon zest in alcohol, often grappa or vodka, which extracts the essential oils from the peels. The infusion is then combined with simple syrup, creating a balanced mixture that retains the fresh, zesty flavor of the lemons. The result is a drink that’s both aromatic and vibrant, with a refreshing citrus punch that’s perfectly suited to a variety of occasions.

Limoncello is typically enjoyed on its own, served in small chilled glasses, but it can also be incorporated into cocktails. Its bright flavor pairs wonderfully with sparkling wine, creating a refreshing spritz, or it can be mixed into other drinks for a citrusy twist. For an elegant dessert addition, Limoncello can be drizzled over cakes, fruit salads, or ice cream for an extra burst of flavor.

Whether you’re sipping it slowly on a warm summer evening or using it to elevate a cocktail, Limoncello liqueur brings a taste of the Italian coast to any gathering, offering a delicious and refreshing experience.

Limoncello liqueur
Limoncello
3.58 from 56 votes
Limoncello is a traditional Italian liqueur made by infusing lemon peels in alcohol and mixing it with a simple syrup, resulting in a refreshing and zesty drink perfect for enjoying as a digestif or using in cocktails.
Servings 1 people
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 10 lemons organic, if possible
  • 750 ml vodka high proof, at least 90%
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water

Instructions
 

  • Wash the lemons thoroughly and peel them with a vegetable peeler, making sure to avoid the white pith.
  • Place lemon peels in a glass jar and pour the vodka over them. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks.
  • After the infusion period, combine sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until sugar dissolves completely to make a simple syrup. Let it cool.
  • Strain the lemon-infused vodka to remove peels and mix with the cooled simple syrup.
  • Transfer the Limoncello into bottles and seal them. Store in freezer and serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gPotassium: 20mgSugar: 20gVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 1mg
Calories: 150kcal
Meal Type: Beverages
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: cocktails, italian cuisine, Liqueur
Cooking Method: Nobake
Diet: Vegan
Time: 30-45 Min
Level: Easy
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Join the Conversation
  1. User avatar Dremora Lord says:

    3 stars
    It says 750 ml vodka? Sounds too much for me! Is it necessary? I’m not sure about this recipe.

  2. User avatar debby.walker says:

    5 stars
    This is the best lemoncello recipe I’ve tried! Super easy and tastes so refreshing. I’ll definitely make it again!

  3. User avatar roxana.kilback12 says:

    3 stars
    I tried this with regular lemons and it didn’t taste right… maybe organic is the key? Anyway, it was still okay.

  4. User avatar laurence.mcdermott says:

    4 stars
    My grandma used to make this. I miss her so much! Can’t wait to try it myself. Thank you for sharing! 🙏

  5. 4 stars
    I love lemon! 💛 I made this and it was so refreshing. Perfect for warm days, thanks for sharing!

    1. User avatar Williams Lang says:

      4 stars
      I tried this too! It was super tasty, but I might add more sugar next time. 🍋

  6. User avatar rich.landlord says:

    1 star
    Limoncello? More like lemon ratch-it! 😂🤮 This was a disaster, tasted like cleaning products!

  7. User avatar zora.price98 says:

    2 stars
    Why can’t I just mix lemon juice with vodka? Is this really necessary?

  8. User avatar pansy.hoeger40 says:

    3 stars
    Just tried this recipe, but I used regular vodka because high proof is too hard to find. Still good, but I think it could be better!

  9. User avatar gilbert.tillman says:

    2 stars
    Limoncello is Italian, right? This recipe seems too simple though. Is it really that easy?

  10. User avatar oPandariaNo says:

    5 stars
    This was an amazing recipe! Made it for my friends and they couldn’t get enough! 🍋✨

    1. User avatar antwan.dietrich85 says:

      3 stars
      Sounds good, but how strong is it? I’m not sure I’d wanna make something that’s too potent. 🤔

    2. User avatar Oolon Colluphid says:

      5 stars
      I’m so glad to hear that! Limoncello is always a hit at gatherings! 🍹

  11. User avatar anneliese.hermann1973 says:

    3 stars
    Seems a bit too much sugar for my liking, I might cut it down next time.

    1. User avatar brianne.hegmann77 says:

      2 stars
      But it’s Limoncello, it’s suppose to be sweet! Just go all in and enjoy it. Sugar adds flavor!

    2. User avatar Zackary Mayer says:

      4 stars
      I get what you’re saying! I’m not a big sugar fan either. I might try it with honey instead next time.

  12. 5 stars
    Love it

  13. User avatar julian.rolfson38 says:

    2 stars
    This was a disaster! I think I let it sit too long. It came out super bitter! What did I do wrong??

    1. User avatar rickiestmorty says:

      4 stars
      Sounds like you might have infused it for too long! I’ve made that mistake before. Try it for a shorter time next time. 😅

    2. User avatar kerstin.rosenbaum52 says:

      3 stars
      Bitter? Did you use organic lemons? That might help next time! Also, don’t squeeze them too hard while peeling!

  14. User avatar ArabianNights says:

    5 stars
    YUM! Just like in Italy! 🍋🇮🇹 This is going to be my go-to. Thanks!

    1. 5 stars
      I’m so glad you liked it! It’s a staple in our family, too! 🍋❤️

    2. User avatar Keri Ratke says:

      3 stars
      Looks good, but isn’t vodka too strong for this? I thought it was just lemon and sugar? 🤔

  15. User avatar alfonso.stanton says:

    5 stars
    Yum! Love making cocktails with this, it’s a game changer! 🥂

    1. User avatar bette.cormier40 says:

      5 stars
      Absolutely! This limoncello recipe takes cocktails to the next level! 🍹 Can’t wait to try it myself!

  16. User avatar Majin Buu says:

    5 stars
    So good! I shared with my Italian grandmother and she loved it. She said it tasted like home.

    1. User avatar smartestRedditor says:

      5 stars
      That’s awesome! Nothing beats a recipe that brings back memories. I can’t wait to try it myself!

    2. User avatar lucie.haag11 says:

      2 stars
      Is this really how you make limoncello? I thought it was more complicated. Seems too simple, like it can’t be that good!

  17. User avatar hosea.senger1951 says:

    4 stars
    I used regular vodka and it turned out great! Who needs high proof anyway?

    1. User avatar ALTplusF4 says:

      4 stars
      Glad it worked out for you! I’ve always used high proof vodka, but maybe I’ll try it your way next time. Cheers!

  18. User avatar steve_maga says:

    2 stars
    Really? Using lemons? Can’t we just use lime? My friend told me to try lime instead.

  19. User avatar hobert.parker46 says:

    2 stars
    Limoncello is my fav drink, but this looks complicated. I’ll stick to buying it.

  20. User avatar johana.schaden1985 says:

    5 stars
    This limoncello is amazing! I made it for a summer party and it was a hit. Will definitely make again!

    1. User avatar teodoro.metz says:

      5 stars
      Wow, that sounds delicious! I love limoncello! 😍 I’m definitely trying this recipe for my next gathering!

    2. 2 stars
      I don’t know, vodka plus sugar? Seems a bit too sweet for me. 🤔 Can anyone recommend a less sweet version?

  21. User avatar bianca.cronin51 says:

    1 star
    Lemons are too bitter for me, I think I’ll pass. 🤢

    1. 5 stars
      Bitter? They ain’t that bad! You should give it a shot, it’s sweet too, and it makes you feel fancy! 😂

    2. 4 stars
      I get what you mean! Lemons can be quite strong, but they add a lot of character to drinks. You could try making it without lemons, maybe infuse something else instead?

  22. 5 stars
    This recipe is so easy! Just made it and can’t wait to taste it! 🍋

  23. User avatar Falmer Shadowmaster says:

    1 star
    Are you kidding me? Who puts so much sugar in drinks?? No way I’m trying this. Yuck!

  24. User avatar delbert.kessler says:

    5 stars
    Tastes so good! I might have drunk half the batch already… 😂

    1. 5 stars
      Haha, I totally get you! It’s hard to resist when it’s that delicious! 🍋🍹

    2. 3 stars
      Sounds great but isn’t drinking that much too much? Be careful! 😅

  25. User avatar tommie.wilderman33 says:

    5 stars
    Quick and simple! Perfect summer sip! I added a splash of soda and it was refreshing. 🍹☀️

    1. User avatar bridgett.volkman68 says:

      2 stars
      I dunno, isn’t Limoncello supposed to be a straight drink? Adding soda might ruin it. 🤔

    2. User avatar austin.kub says:

      5 stars
      I love that idea! A splash of soda sounds awesome! Can’t wait to try it! 🌟

  26. User avatar Deku Royalty says:

    3 stars
    I’m not sure if I followed the instructions right. The lemon peels didn’t really infuse much flavor. 🤔

    1. 4 stars
      Did you make sure to only use the yellow part of the peel? The white pith can make it bitter! 🍋

  27. User avatar rich.landlord says:

    3 stars
    What even is high proof vodka? Can I use whatever I have at home? I’m not fancy. 😂

  28. User avatar karole.barton32 says:

    5 stars
    Love making this every summer! Tastes even better with fresh mint!

    1. User avatar chadwick.weissnat51 says:

      2 stars
      I dunno, isn’t this drink too strong? 90% vodka?? Maybe use less vodka, or it will knock you out!

    2. 5 stars
      I agree! Fresh mint really adds a refreshing touch. Can’t wait to try this again! 🍋

  29. User avatar lorraine.lindgren19 says:

    2 stars
    I don’t know about this… 2 weeks just for some lemon drink? Seems like a long wait!

    1. User avatar angel.rolfson56 says:

      2 stars
      2 weeks? Nah, I don’t wait that long for no drink. I’d rather just make lemonade! 🍋

    2. User avatar martin.rosenbaum50 says:

      5 stars
      I get what you mean, but good things take time! This drink is worth the wait. 😋

  30. User avatar w00d_ch0p says:

    2 stars
    Is it really worth all the hassle though? Seems overpriced to me. Lets just buy it from the store!

3.58 from 56 votes
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