Jul 13 2026
Restaurantsil Sugo Italian KitchenHousemade Lemoncello Recipe

Housemade Lemoncello Recipe

Time30m
Serves20

Make Housemade Lemoncello Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Optional Ingredients

Method

Infusing the Alcohol

  1. 1

    Prepare the Lemons

    Wash the lemons thoroughly under running water to remove any wax or pesticides. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

  2. 2

    Zest the Lemons

    Using a vegetable peeler or zester, carefully remove the zest from the lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith. Aim for long strips of zest.

  3. 3

    Combine Zest with Alcohol

    Place the lemon zest in a large glass jar or container. Pour the high-proof grain alcohol or vodka over the zest, ensuring it is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.

  4. 4

    Infusion Period

    Let the jar sit in a cool, dark place for about 7 to 14 days. Shake the jar gently every few days to help with the infusion.

Making the Syrup

  1. 5

    Prepare the Simple Syrup

    In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 3 cups of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and allow to cool.

Combining and Bottling

  1. 6

    Strain the Infused Alcohol

    Once the infusion period is complete, strain the lemon-infused alcohol through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the lemon zest.

  2. 7

    Mix with Syrup

    Combine the strained lemon-infused alcohol with the cooled simple syrup in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to combine.

  3. 8

    Taste and Adjust

    Taste the limoncello and adjust the sweetness if desired. Add more simple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.

  4. 9

    Bottle the Limoncello

    Using a funnel, pour the limoncello into clean glass bottles. Seal tightly and label them with the date.

  5. 10

    Chill and Serve

    For the best flavor, refrigerate the limoncello for at least 24 hours before serving. Serve chilled in small glasses, optionally garnished with additional lemon zest.

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