This limoncello recipe is a bright, citrus infused liqueur that's easy to make at home and full of fresh lemon flavor. It's crisp, smooth, and makes a lovely homemade gift.
It always brings me back to my own lemon based holiday spirits, especially my Lemon Drop Martini. This is one of those recipes I reach for when I want to share something thoughtful and homemade with family and friends.
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Why You'll Love this Limoncello Recipe
Fresh flavor: made with real lemon zest for clean citrus notes.
Simple process: just infuse, strain, and sweeten, no special skills needed.
Beautiful gift: clear bottles turn this homemade limoncello into something truly charming.
Key Ingredients for Homemade Limoncello
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Lemons: you'll use the zest only, which carries all of the bright oil without bitterness.
- Vodka: a clean base spirit that absorbs the lemon oils.
- Sugar: balances the ctirus and creates a smooth sip.
- Water: helps build ths syrup that blends with the infused vodka.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, floral variation.
- Swap half the vodka for grain alcohol (such as Everclear) for a stronger traditional version.
- Replace white sugar with monkfruit for a sugar-free, low carb version.
Variations on Limoncello Recipe
- Make orange-cello with orange zest for a softer citrus sip.
- Add fresh basil leaves during infusion for a herbal twist.
- Stir in vanilla bean to the cooled syrup for a creamy, mellow finish.
Helpful Tips for the Best Limoncello
- Zest only the yellow skin to keep your Italian lemon liqueur smooth, not bitter.
- Let the syrup cool fully before adding it to the infused voddka to keep the liqueur clear.
- Choose bottles with tight seals to maintain that crisp, bright lemon aroma.
How to Store
Store limoncello in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, or in the freezer for even longer.
Serve With...
Homemade limoncello is wonderful served ice cold after a meal, or poured over fresh berries or homemade vanilla bean ice cream for a simple dessert.
More Easy Lemon Recipes You'll Love
If citrus is your style, you might also enjoy my Lemon Curd Swirl Cheesecake, Lemon Cheesecake Muffins, Meyer Lemon Curd. and Rhubarb Lemonade.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Easy Homemade Limoncello Recipe
Equipment
- Large glass infusing jar
- Small glass bottles with lids
- funnel
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Instructions
- Place the lemon zest and vodka in a large glass jar. Cover and let sit for 7 days.
- On day 6, bring the water and sugar to a boil. Simmer 15 minutes. Cool overnight.
- On day 7, strain the lemon-infused vodka. Stir in the cooled sugar water.
- Transfer limoncello into clean, clear glass bottles. Refrigerate or before serving.
Shelby Law Ruttan says
SO easy to make and was the perfect gift idea for my aunt and co-workers. I love it is ready in about a week....and it is pretty hard to stop sipping!
Jeff @ Cheese-burger.net says
I myself am not a fan of sweet drinks. Thankfully your adaptation is just about right. Also the glasses looks adorable.
Joanne DiPalo says
Sounds delicious. I like making homemade liquers. I remember my mom and my aunt used to make them way back when I was growing up. They always had fun and it's one of the reasons I love being in the kitchen. Thanks for sharing this and will give it a try if I get a chance this season. Pinned and shared.
ReneesKitchenAdventures says
Very cool that you made this. I bet you could find some recipes to use it in!
Sheena @ Hot Eats and Cool Reads says
Oh my! This looks fantastic! Pinning!
Patsy K says
I've had limoncello a couple of times and love it! I need to give making it at home a try!