Super Simple + Delicious Limoncello Recipe
Limoncello is a delicious Italian lemon liquor typically served after a meal. It also happens to be incredibly easy to make with only four ingredients. Here is a super simple + delicious limoncello recipe.
The Backstory
I tried limoncello for the first time when I studied abroad for a summer in Florence, Italy. A group of us climbed to the top of the Piazzale Michelangelo to take in the stunning view overlooking all of Florence. It was breathtaking and unlike anything I had ever experienced before.
There is a restaurant at the top called La Loggia Del Piazzale Michelangelo. We got a table outside, enjoyed live music, and ordered an Aperol Spritz and prosciutto and melon. I also ordered limoncello to try for the first time. Now, anytime I have an Aperol Spritz or limoncello, I am transported right back to that day.
Piazzale Michelangelo
What is Limoncello?
Limoncello is often served chilled to be sipped on as an after-dinner treat. The exact origins of limoncello vary depending on who you ask. Some say the exact birthplace is Sorrento, while others claim Amalfi or Capri. However, the general consensus agrees its origins are based in southern Italy.
What Vodka Should You Use?
The answer to this question depends on your personal preference. Many limoncello recipes tell you to use 100-proof vodka. In my opinion, that makes the limoncello too strong and almost medicinal. I prefer to instead use an 80-proof vodka or something more mellow like Tito’s.
The best rule of thumb is to go with a vodka you personally enjoy.
Simple + Delicious Limoncello Recipe
Ingredients
10 lemons
1(750-ml) bottle vodka
2 1/2 cups sugar
3 1/2 cups water
Directions
Wash the lemons. Take a vegetable peeler and remove the peel in long sections. Ensure you remove the white pith from the lemon peels. (If the pith remains, it will make the limoncello too bitter.) Place the peels into a glass pitcher.
Pour the vodka over the peels. Cover the pitcher and place into the refrigerator to steep for 4-7 days.
Create the simple syrup. In a medium saucepan, stir together the sugar and water over medium heat until all sugar is melted. Let it completely cool.
Once cooled, pour the simple syrup over the vodka and lemons.
Strain the mixture and dispose of the peels. Transfer into smaller bottles to store in the fridge. Chill at least 1 hour before serving. Serve in a cordial glass. (NOTE: If you don’t want to drink the limoncello straight, you can make a delicious Limoncello Spritz)
*Since limoncello only uses lemon peels, I typically make lemonade at the same time to make sure all of the lemons are put to good use.