Homemade Limoncello Recipe

Craft your own zesty, refreshing limoncello with this easy-to-follow recipe! Inspired by a family friend, this homemade version lets you control the sweetness and zest, resulting in a vibrant, luxurious liqueur perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a taste of Italy at home. Learn how to transform simple ingredients into a delightful citrus treat that's sure to become a new favorite.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 21600 mins
Calories 292.8 kcal
Protein 1g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Homemade Limoncello 36

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Homemade Limoncello

  • 1 (750 ml) bottle 100 proof vodka
  • 8 lemons (organic if possible, for zest)
  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 3 cups water

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How to Make Homemade Limoncello

  1. Combine vodka and zest in a half gallon jar and let stand at room temperature
  2. Tightly covered, for about 10 days
  3. It is ready when the zest has turned pale and vodka is a deep yellow
  4. Pour liquid through a strainer into a large bowl
  5. Leave zest in the strainer and place stainer over a large measuring cup
  6. Bring 3 cups of water and sugar to boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved
  7. Boil for 3 minutes
  8. Pour syrup through strainer into measuring cup and discard the zest
  9. Cool syrup completely
  10. Add syrup to vodka
  11. Pour liqueur into a large bottle or smaller decorative bottles with tight fitting lids
  12. Let stand for 5 days before serving
  13. Store in the fridge and serve ice cold in chilled shot glasses
  14. If you store homemade limoncello in the freezer it may freeze

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

119g

Fat

0g

Carbs

12g

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Time To Make Course Preparation Occasion Low Protein Healthy 5 Ingredients Or Less Beverages 1 Day Or More Easy Low Fat Cocktails Dietary Gifts Low Sodium Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Low In Something