How to Make Traditional Italian Limoncello - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to traditional Italian liqueurs, few are as iconic as limoncello. This sweet, tangy, and refreshing lemon liqueur is a staple in Italian households and is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal. Whether sipped on its own or used to enhance cocktails and desserts, limoncello has a bright and zesty flavor that instantly transports you to the sunny Amalfi Coast.

While commercially produced limoncello can be found in many liquor stores, there's something special about maki...

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Ingredients

  • 10 lemons
  • 1 quart 95% alcohol (190 proof)
  • 6 cups water
  • 4 cups white sugar

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 5 mins
  • Additional Time: 21 days 10 mins
  • Total Time: 21 days 30 mins
  • Servings: 32
  • Yield: 1 quart

  • Zest lemons, making sure to get the outermost part of the skin and avoid the white pith.
  • Place lemon zest in a glass bowl and cover with alcohol. Cover and let infuse at room temperature until yellowish in color, about 7 days.
  • Bring water and sugar to the boil in a saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove syrup from heat and let cool, about 10 minutes.
  • Pour alcohol into the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer; discard lemon zest. Stir well.
  • Pour limoncello into thick, freezer-safe glass bottles. Store in the freezer for at least 2 weeks before serving.
  • Nutrition

    184 cal.

    • Sodium: 2mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 25g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 25g
    • Vitamin C: 2mg
    • Calcium: 4mg
    • Potassium: 5mg