Homemade Limoncello | A Taste of Southern Italy in a Bottle

Bright, aromatic, and dangerously smooth — this Limoncello recipe is as close as it gets to sipping the sunshine of the Amalfi Coast. Made with just four ingredients and a little patience, it’s perfect as a chilled digestive or a homemade gift from the heart.

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About This Dish

Limoncello is more than a drink — it’s a symbol of Southern Italian hospitality. Born on the Amalfi Coast and perfected in every Nonna’s kitchen, this golden liqueur celebrates the bright perfume of local lemons steeped in pure spirit and sweetened with simple syrup.

Ingredients (Makes about 2.5 Litres / 10½ cups)

Lemon Zest:	From 8 large organic lemons (only the yellow part)
Pure Alcohol (or Vodka):	1 L (about 4¼ cups)
Cold Water:	1.2 L (about 5 cups)
Sugar:	700 g (about 3½ cups)

How to Make It

Prep Time: 20 mins | Infusion Time: 7–10 days | Total Time: About 1 week

Step 1: Wash and dry the lemons thoroughly. Peel the zest using a vegetable peeler, avoiding the white pith.
Step 2: Place the zest in a large glass jar and pour over the alcohol or vodka. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 7–10 days, shaking gently every 1–2 days.
Step 3: After infusion, prepare a syrup by heating the sugar and water in a pot until the sugar dissolves completely. Let cool.
Step 4: Strain the infused alcohol to remove the lemon peels, then combine it with the cooled syrup. Stir well.
Step 5: Bottle the Limoncello and store in the freezer. Serve ice-cold in small glasses.

Tucci’s Tips

Use organic, unwaxed lemons — the zest is the heart of the flavor.

Don’t rush the infusion — longer soaking brings smoother, more aromatic results.

For a creamy twist, mix in a splash of milk and make Crema di Limoncello.

Variations

Orange Version: Replace lemons with oranges to make Arancello.
Herbal Touch: Add a few basil or mint leaves during infusion for freshness.
Less Sweet: Reduce sugar by 100 g (½ cup) for a sharper, more alcoholic taste.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: Limoncello originated along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where lemon groves stretch from Sorrento to Positano. Families still make it at home using generations-old recipes.

Fun Fact: True Amalfi lemons are so aromatic that locals use them for perfumes, sweets, and even home remedies for good luck and health.

Share Your Creation!

Did you make this Limoncello? Share a photo on Instagram or TikTok and tag @cooking.with.tucci — I’d love to see your sunshine-filled bottles!

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Storage & Thank You

Store the bottled Limoncello in the freezer — it won’t freeze due to its alcohol content. Best enjoyed ice-cold after a meal.

Can it be frozen? Yes — keep it in the freezer at all times and serve straight from there for the perfect chill.

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