Limoncello Gelato brings together the refreshing citrus zing of limoncello liqueur with the creamy, rich texture of traditional Italian gelato. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with the intense lemon flavor paired with the smoothness that gelato is known for. Whether you’re celebrating the summer sun or craving a sophisticated after-dinner treat, Limoncello Gelato offers a refreshing and indulgent way to enjoy the classic Italian combination of lemon and cream.
The star of this gelato is limoncello, a vibrant lemon liqueur that imparts a bold, zesty taste to the dessert. The alcohol adds a subtle complexity to the flavor, enhancing the natural sweetness of the lemon while providing a gentle kick. The gelato base is made with milk, cream, and sugar, creating a luscious, velvety texture that’s richer than ice cream but lighter than traditional custard-based desserts.
The lemon zest and juice incorporated into the mixture heighten the citrus profile, giving the gelato an authentic, tangy punch that’s perfectly complemented by the creamy sweetness. The result is a cool, refreshing dessert that’s ideal for warm weather or whenever you want to enjoy a little taste of Italy at home.
Limoncello Gelato can be served on its own or paired with shortbread cookies, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. For an extra layer of flavor, you could also top it with a few lemon shavings or a sprig of mint. It’s the perfect dessert for a dinner party, a light finish to an Italian-inspired meal, or simply a sweet treat after a long day.
With its bright and bold flavors, Limoncello Gelato is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Italian dessert with a modern twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup limoncello store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest freshly grated
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until just steaming, but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and lemon zest.
- Gradually stir the sugar mixture into the milk mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in the limoncello.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until very cold.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm before serving.
Nutrition
I like it, but too much sugar! Next time I’ll cut it down a bit. Also, where can I buy limoncello? Never seen it before.
I totally understand about the sugar! You can always adjust it to your taste. As for limoncello, you can usually find it in liquor stores or even online!
I dunno, I tried making it but it didn’t turn out like the picture. My gelato was kinda icy and not creamy at all. Maybe I did something wrong?
Don’t worry, it happens! Make sure to really chill the mix before churning. Your ice cream maker might need more time too. You’ll get it right next time!
I think you didn’t churn it long enough. That could make it icy. Gelato should be creamy! Also, did you use enough cream? That could be the problem.
Wow, this gelato is amazing! The limoncello really adds a kick. My family loved it!
Lemon gelato? Never thought of that! I used lime instead because I had no lemons. Still came out pretty good!
Wow! I didn’t know making gelato could be this easy. Turned out perfect!
I know right? It’s so simple and delicious. I’ve made it twice already!
Limoncello gelato? What even is that? Sounds weird but I might try it. Seems fancy.
Limoncello gelato is actually super delicious! It’s like lemon ice cream but creamier and with a kick. You should definitely try it!
I added some fresh berries and it was amazing! A twist on the original.
I’m not sure about putting limoncello in ice cream. Sounds weird, but I’ll try it! Hope it doesn’t taste too boozy!
I added some fresh mint leaves to the mix and it turned out amazing! Highly recommend trying that twist.
Fresh mint sounds like a great idea! I’ll have to try that next time. Thanks for the tip!
This was kinda bland for my taste. I thought it would be more lemony, but it didn’t have that zing I expected. Maybe more zest next time?
I totally get what you mean! I felt the same way. Adding more lemon zest seems like a good idea! Maybe even a bit of lemon juice for an extra kick?
This gelato is the best! So refreshing and lemony, just like summer! 🍋
Yum!!! Made this for a party and everybody was raving about it. SO refreshing! Highly recommend! 😍
Can you use other spirits like vodka? I don’t have limoncello. Would it still work?
Using vodka might change the flavor a bit, but it could work! Just make sure to adjust the quantity since vodka is stronger. Good luck!
Why would u use vodka? Limoncello gives it that lemony taste! You might ruin it.
This gelato is simply divine! The lemon flavor is so refreshing, and it’s perfect for summer. Will definitely make it again!
Gelato is not ice cream!! This recipe seems off, because it doesn’t use enough sugar!! I’m skeptical about making it.
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Not sure if I did something wrong but mine came out too sweet. Maybe use less sugar next time?
I found the limoncello too strong. Maybe I’ll try less next time.
So good, but I might have ate too much in one sitting! 🤣
I didn’t have an ice cream maker, I just froze it in a container. It didn’t work 😬. Any advice?
You need to stir it every 30 minutes while it freezes! That helps it not get too icy.
Wow, just wow. I never knew I could make something this delicious at home. Five stars for sure!
This gelato sounds amazing! I’m definitely trying this out. Thanks for sharing your success!
Just made it and it’s not freezing properly. Help! What did I do wrong?
What is limoncello anyway? I’m not even sure if I can find it here.
Absolutely loved this recipe! It turned out creamy and flavorful. Perfect for summer days. Will definitely make again! 🍋
I think I was supposed to use lemon juice instead of limoncello… Oops! Still tastes good tho.
Paging Dr. Limoncello! This is a must-try! Better than my grandma’s!
Gelato is Italian, right? This could be a great dessert for my dinner party next week.
Looks simple, but my kids didn’t like lemon flavor. 😒
Love how easy this recipe is! Perfect treat for outdoor parties.