This limoncello recipe is an easy homemade lemon cordial with accents of fresh herbs that is as simple as boiling water.
Homemade liqueurs are ridiculously easy to make. All I do to make mine is to add alcohol (vodka, rum, brandy, everclear) and a simple sugar to the "flavoring" (lemon, cranberries, apricots, coffee, etc.) and let it sit for 4-6 weeks for the flavors to blend.
The hardest part is waiting for the flavors to develop.
My mother would make batches of different liqueurs in October for Christmas gifts. After the limoncello has had a chance to sit, strain and pour it into an attractive bottle. Put it in a wine bag, or just attach a bow and you are done.
What kind of herbs should you use for Limoncello?
I used thyme for the batch in the photos, but you can use any herb you think pairs nicely with lemon such as:
- basil
- marjoram
- rosemary
- tarragon
- lavender
- peppercorns
The great thing about making your own liqueurs is that you get to have fun experimenting with flavors.
How to serve Limoncello
Traditionally, limoncello is served chilled in chilled cordial glasses for an after dinner digestivo.
You can use it to mix cocktails such as a Limoncello Lemon Drop, a Lemon Cake Cocktail or this Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail. Or mix it with champagne or prosecco for a fun sparkling cocktail.
I like it on a hot day mixed with seltzer water (as in the photos) or with iced tea.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Large lemons
- 1 bunch fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, basil, marjoram, etc.)
- 1 ½ cup vodka
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Remove zest from lemons (yellow part only, no white). Use lemons in another recipe.
- Put lemon zest, fresh herbs and vodka in a sterilized quart sized mason jar or other glass container.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, dissolve sugar in the water to make a simple syrup. Pour into jar and close lid.
- Let sit in a cool dark place 3-4 weeks. Strain peels and herbs before serving.
Until next time, happy eating.
~Audrey
Lori Hart
I've been looking for some refreshing spring and summer cocktails and yours fits the bill. Great idea with the ingredients this month!
Audrey
Thanks, Lori. I tried to do something different.
Wendy, A Day in the Life on the Farm
Thyme Limoncello sounds like the perfect summer refresher.
Audrey
I am hoping it will be refreshing this summer too, though we are already having summer heat.
Marlys (This and That)
This sounds like a very interesting recipes.
Jess Powell (Babi a Fi)
This sounds so nice - I bet it's really refreshing in hot weather too! #FridayFrivolity
Audrey
Thanks, Jess.
Marilyn
Thank you for sharing this delicious recipe at the #RecipeSharingParty! I hope to see you next week. Pinned and Yummed. Please visit #OverTheMoon on Sunday or #ThursdayFavoriteThings for more sharing fun! Don't forget to Comment your link #'s so I can be sure to visit and get a chance to be featured!
Audrey
Thanks, Marilyn.
Kelly @RaisingSamuels
Oh, yum! This sounds like the perfect drink for summer! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Audrey
Thanks for commenting, Kelly.
Comedy Plus
What a great and refreshing summer drink.
Have a fabulous day. ☺
Audrey
Thanks for visiting and commenting.
Courtney
Oh, this sounds like a perfect refreshing drink for warmer weather!
Audrey
It is! Thanks for coming by and taking the time to comment.
Pamela Shank
I see so many recipes that call for limoncello but I have never had this. Your recipe looks refreshing and simple. will try this!
Audrey
It is lovely and lemony!
Kelster
That's all I have to do? Sit and wait? I'm definitely going to try making this then.
Audrey
You can do it with just about any fruit. I've made apricot and cranberry too.
Andrea Nine
So fun! My husband and I feel in love with Limoncello in Italy. Wow, do I love your recipe and the idea of throwing some of my fresh herbs in there. Can't wait to try this!!
Audrey
I've never had the "real stuff" but those that have had it say this is very close.