Description
Zesty limoncello brings Italian sunshine to mocktail lovers with its tangy lemon essence and sweet, bright profile. Crafted from fresh lemons and simple ingredients, this non-alcoholic version offers a delightful sip you can enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 45 lemons (preferably organic)
- 2 cups (473 ml) granulated sugar
- 4 cups (946 ml) water
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon extract
Sweeteners and Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
Instructions
- Thoroughly scrub lemons under cool running water to remove any wax or residue, ensuring a clean surface for zesting.
- Using a sharp microplane or zester, carefully extract the bright yellow outer layer of the lemon, meticulously avoiding the bitter white membrane underneath.
- Prepare a simmering syrup by combining water and sugar in a medium saucepan, stirring continuously over medium heat until the sugar crystals completely dissolve.
- Gently fold the fragrant lemon zest into the warm syrup, reducing heat to low and allowing the mixture to gently simmer for 5-7 minutes, releasing aromatic citrus oils.
- Incorporate lemon extract, vanilla extract, and optional honey or agave syrup, stirring to create a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the infused syrup to cool naturally to room temperature, which typically takes about 30-45 minutes.
- Position a fine mesh strainer or layered cheesecloth over a clean glass container, carefully pouring the syrup to capture and separate the zest.
- Seal the strained limoncello in a glass jar or bottle, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to enhance the flavor profile and ensure a refreshingly chilled beverage.
Notes
- Choose lemons with thick, vibrant yellow skin for maximum zest and flavor intensity.
- Invest in a high-quality zester or microplane to remove zest without touching the bitter white pith.
- Skip using waxed lemons, as they might impact the recipe’s natural taste and purity.
- Experiment with different sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for low-sugar or diabetic-friendly versions.
- Store the limoncello in dark glass containers to preserve its bright citrus essence and prevent light degradation.
- Chill serving glasses beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.
- Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, effervescent mocktail variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Mocktails
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 42
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg