Here is an authentic Italian recipe for homemade limoncello. If you’ve never tried it before, you are in for a treat. If you have, you know exactly how amazing this lemon liquor is. You might be surprised how easy it is to make. All you need is a pile of lemons, some vodka, sugar and water. That’s it! The technique is a breeze. Simply peel the lemons, let them sit in vodka for a few weeks and add a simple syrup. It couldn’t be easier.
Limoncello is absolutely divine! It just tastes like summer. Limoncello originated in Southern Italy and is famous along the Amalfi Coast and the Island of Capri. To me it is a sip of sunshine. The perfect time to make limoncello is right in the heart of citrus season, which is winter in the United States, so it coincides beautifully with Christmas. This makes such a lovely present. You can buy gorgeous glass bottles to present it in at the Container Store, Michaels or even Target for just a few dollars.
Homemade Limoncello: A Love Story
I first indulged in limoncello when I was dating the man who would become my husband. We used to frequent a seafood restaurant on the Miami River for lazy weekend lunches that lasted for hours. We enjoyed the food and the relaxed atmosphere created the romance that blossomed into our family. The first time I ordered a limoncello, I had no idea what it was. It just sounded scrumptious. It is, but it’s also strong. Those small digestives we ordered cost a ridiculous $14 a piece, so I quickly learned how to make my own. Now for the price of a round of drinks you can have a couple of gifts (and chef nips) yourself.
- 12 lemons
- 4 c vodka (medium quality)
- 4 c filtered water
- 3 c sugar
- Using a vegetable peeler, gently peel only the yellow part of the lemon peel from the fruit. Scrape off any excess white part with a sharp knife. This is a great TV watching activity and husband involvement is required appreciated.
- Put peels in a large pitcher and pour vodka over them. Cover top. Allow to sit at room temperature for 4 days, giving them a small swirl once a day.
- Make a simple sugar syrup by combining the sugar and water in a small sauce pan over a medium flame. Stir and gently warm until sugar is dissolved, about 7 minutes. Cool to room temperature. Pour over lemon peels and vodka. Allow to rest at room temperature for 1 day.
- Strain the lemon peels and pour into sterilized containers. Chill. Best consumed within 2 months.
Serving Suggestions:
Limoncello is traditionally served as a digestive, after a meal. It is also delicious as a champagne cocktail when served with a crisp prosecco. I also like a splash of it with amaretto over ice. Enjoy!
Thanks for the feedback!
The above recipe yields a limoncello of about 42 proof (assuming that 100 proof vodka is used). The recipe I use is the same as yours, except I use 3 cups of 190 proof grain alcohol instead of vodka. This yields a limoncello of about 67 proof, which is a more accurate representation of that which is served in Italy. Using grain alcohol also allows for a much shorter maceration period.
I’m so happy, Sarah! It makes an impressive gift, but it’s so simple to make.
That’s great, Lindsey! Enjoy it!!
Thank you so much!! Enjoy the limoncello.
Living in Florida, we are lucky to be near citrus groves. Fresh is best! We love Limoncello. The flavor is bright and refreshing. Thanks for sharing! I love your blogs, btw. You have such creative ideas, especially for kids!
Hi Rebecca! I love this recipe, and definitely look forward to making it for a gift over the holidays! Your blog is beautiful! 🌻😊
This is so awesome! These would make amazing gifts! Pinning this for later too!
I don’t drink but this would still be great to make and give in a gift basket for my friends who drink occasionally.
Oh. My. Goodness. The girls in my office are going to love you, because this is officially on my list for Christmas gifts. I never would have imagined it could be so easy, I can’t wait to try it out! Thanks for sharing!
This IS a terrific holiday gift idea! I love the way you’ve packaged the finished product too. I’m definitely going to be making this for my family and close friends.
This sounds really good! i have a friend who enjoys making his own beer and wine, so this sounds like a good challenge for him!
I love limoncello! This is super simple. I will be trying this recipe
So want this drink right now. It looks so tasty.
My parents went to Italy a few years ago and brought us back a bottle of Limoncello. O. M. G. It was so good! I can’t wait to try your recipe.
Wow! That sounds yummy and easy! What a fun, homemade gift that would be!
Looks delicious AND beautiful!