Ingredients
- 10–12 organic lemons, preferably unwaxed
- 750 ml (1 standard bottle) 80-proof vodka
- 3 cups water
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the lemons: Scrub and dry them thoroughly. Use a vegetable peeler to remove only the yellow outer zest—avoid the white pith because it can make the limoncello bitter.
- Infuse: Place the lemon zest in a clean large glass jar and pour in the vodka. Seal tightly.
- Store in a cool, dark place for 7–14 days, gently shaking the jar every day or two. The vodka should become intensely yellow and lemon-scented.
- Make simple syrup: Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil aggressively. Cool completely.
- Strain: Strain the infused vodka through a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter to remove all zest.
- Combine: Mix the infused vodka with the completely cooled syrup. Add lemon juice if you want a slightly brighter, tangier flavor.
- Bottle: Pour into clean glass bottles and seal.
- Rest: Refrigerate for at least 2–3 days before serving for the flavors to mellow.
- Serve very cold, preferably straight from the freezer or refrigerator, in small chilled glasses.
Quick & Short Recipe
Peel lemons → add yellow zest to 750 ml vodka → infuse 7–14 days → strain → make syrup with 3 cups water + 2½ cups sugar → cool → mix with vodka → bottle → chill → serve cold.
Nut Information
- Naturally nut-free.
- No peanuts or tree nuts are required.
- If preparing for someone with a serious allergy, check the vodka and any flavoring ingredients for manufacturer cross-contact statements.
Alcohol Note
This is an alcoholic liqueur. Keep it clearly labeled and stored safely away from children. The final alcohol percentage depends on how much syrup is added.
Approx. Nutrition
Per 2 oz (60 ml) serving, approximately:
- Calories: 130–160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
- Sugar: 20–25 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
Values vary depending on the final syrup-to-vodka ratio.