Lemon Cream Liqueur Recipe
Indulge in the delightful charm of summer evenings with this luscious Lemon Cream Liqueur, a perfect companion for long, warm nights when sleep seems far away. This homemade liqueur boasts a creamy texture and a zesty lemon flavor that will make your conversations flow as smoothly as the drink itself. Ideal for those who enjoy a refreshing yet indulgent treat, this liqueur can be stored in the freezer to enhance its creaminess and chill factor. Serve it slightly thawed for the best experience.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of lemon peels (ensure no white pith)
- 5 cups of sugar
- 1 vanilla bean
- 600-800 ml of cognac (adjust based on desired strength)
- 1 liter of whole milk
- 3/4 cup of whiskey (optional for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Lemon Peels:
- Begin by carefully peeling the lemons, ensuring to avoid the bitter white pith. Place the lemon peels into a large, clean jar.
- Pour the cognac over the peels, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and let it infuse for 24 hours. During this period, shake the jar a couple of times to help the flavors meld.
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Create the Cream Mixture:
- In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it simmer for approximately 25 minutes, allowing the milk to thicken and the sugar to dissolve completely.
- Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
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Combine and Strain:
- After 24 hours of infusing, strain the lemon-infused cognac through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the peels.
- Mix the strained cognac with the cooled milk mixture. Add the vanilla bean (split and scraped) and whiskey if using. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Bottle and Chill:
- Pour the mixture into clean, airtight bottles. Seal the bottles and place them in the freezer. The liqueur will not freeze due to the alcohol content but will become creamier and more refreshing.
- Before serving, remove the bottles from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about ten minutes to soften slightly.
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Variation:
- For a different twist, you can substitute tangerine peels for lemons, offering a unique citrus flavor.
Serving Tips:
Serve your Lemon Cream Liqueur chilled from the freezer. It makes a delightful after-dinner treat or a special addition to a summer evening gathering. Enjoy responsibly and savor the creamy, citrusy notes of this homemade delight!
Yields: Approximately 2 bottles
This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate European-style liqueurs and enjoy crafting their own beverages. Cheers to a refreshing and flavorful experience! 🍋🍸