Homemade Lemoncello Recipe
Indulge in the delightfully sweet and invigorating flavor of homemade Lemoncello, a vibrant Italian liqueur that’s perfect for any occasion. This refreshing beverage will add a zesty touch to your gatherings and bring a taste of Italy right to your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this luscious drink from start to finish.
Ingredients:
- 6 large lemons (zested)
- 750 ml vodka (a good quality vodka is recommended for the best flavor)
- 3 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
Instructions:
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Prepare the Lemons: Start by zesting the six lemons carefully. Make sure to only take the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Place the lemon zest into a bottle or jar that can hold about 1 quart of liquid.
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Infuse the Vodka: Pour the 750 ml of vodka over the lemon zest. Seal the bottle or jar tightly and shake it well to mix the zest with the vodka. Set it aside in a cool, dark place and let it infuse for 10 days. During this period, shake the bottle gently once a day to help the flavors meld together.
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Make the Simple Syrup: On the 10th day, it’s time to make a simple syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of water with 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup comes to a boil.
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Combine Syrup and Infused Vodka: After the syrup has cooled slightly, strain the lemon zest from the vodka using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Discard the zest. Pour the warm syrup over the strained vodka, mixing them together well.
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Bottle the Lemoncello: Pour the combined mixture into clean bottles. Seal them tightly and place them in the freezer. Don’t worry about the Lemoncello freezing solid; it will stay slushy and icy cold, which is perfect for serving.
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Serve: When ready to enjoy, serve your homemade Lemoncello in chilled glasses for an extra touch of refreshment. The icy cold temperature enhances the flavor and makes for a delightful treat.
Tips:
- For the best results, use fresh lemons and high-quality vodka.
- Ensure the lemon zest is finely grated to maximize flavor infusion.
- The Lemoncello can be kept in the freezer for several months, making it a great make-ahead treat for future occasions.
Enjoy your homemade Lemoncello, and share the zesty joy with friends and family! 🍋🍹
