Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsOxford ExchangeLimoncello Recipe

Limoncello Recipe

Inspired by Oxford Exchange
Time168h
Serves20

citrus, vanilla

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Ingredients

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Citrus Ingredients

Alcohol

Flavoring

Water

Method

Preparation of Citrus

  1. 1

    Prepare the Lemons

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

  2. 2

    Zest the Lemons

    Using a zester or a microplane, zest all 10 lemons, being careful to only remove the yellow part of the peel, as the white pith is bitter.

Infusing the Vodka

  1. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    In a large glass jar or container, combine the lemon zest, 1 liter of vodka, and the split vanilla bean (scrape the seeds into the jar as well).

  2. 4

    Let it Infuse

    Seal the jar tightly and let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for about 1 week. Shake gently every few days to ensure the flavors meld.

Making the Syrup

  1. 5

    Prepare the Sugar Syrup

    In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water. Heat over medium heat while stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow to cool.

Finalizing the Limoncello

  1. 6

    Strain the Infused Vodka

    After 1 week, strain the infused vodka through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bottle, discarding the lemon zest and vanilla bean.

  2. 7

    Combine Syrup with Infused Vodka

    Mix the cooled sugar syrup into the strained vodka. Adjust sweetness to your taste by adding more syrup if desired.

  3. 8

    Bottle the Limoncello

    Pour the final limoncello mixture into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly and let it rest for at least 2 days before serving to enhance the flavors.

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