Homemade Traditional Italian Limoncello Recipe

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with this homemade traditional Italian Limoncello recipe. Made with fresh lemons, high-quality alcohol, and a simple syrup, this zesty liqueur is perfect for sipping on warm summer nights or gifting to friends and family. Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of this iconic Italian drink that captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast.

Ingredients

• 10 organic lemons
• 1 liter of high-proof alcohol (such as Everclear or vodka)
• 750 ml water
• 500 g granulated sugar

Directions

1. Scrub the lemons under running water to remove any wax or dirt. Dry them thoroughly.
2. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest (yellow part) from the lemons, avoiding the white pith as much as possible. Place the zest in a glass jar or airtight container.
3. Pour the alcohol over the lemon zest, making sure it is completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and let it steep for at least 10-14 days in a cool, dark place. Give the jar a gentle shake every few days to help extract the flavors.
4. After the steeping period, prepare the simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved completely. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
5. Once the syrup has cooled, strain the lemon zest-infused alcohol through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate clean jar or bottle. Discard the used lemon zest.
6. Slowly pour the simple syrup into the jar with the infused alcohol, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness if desired.
7. Seal the jar or bottle tightly and let the Limoncello rest for another 7-10 days in a cool, dark place to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Once the resting period is over, transfer the Limoncello to smaller bottles or decorative glass containers. Store in a freezer for at least 1 hour before serving.
9. Serve the homemade traditional Italian Limoncello chilled in small shot glasses or as a refreshing base for cocktails. Enjoy!

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