Description
This refreshing Alcoholic Limoncello Spritz is a delightful citrus cocktail featuring homemade lemon oleo saccharum, sparkling lemon water or non-alcoholic Prosecco, and optional fresh lemon juice for brightness. Garnished with lemon slices or thyme, it’s a perfect light and zesty drink for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lemon Oleo Saccharum
- Peel of 4-5 lemons (avoiding white pith)
- 1 cup sugar (approximately 3 tablespoons per lemon)
For the Spritz
- 1 to 1.5 oz lemon oleo saccharum
- 1 cup lemon sparkling water or non-alcoholic Prosecco
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Lemon slice or thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oleo Saccharum: Wash and peel the lemons carefully to avoid including any bitter white pith. Place the lemon peels in a jar and add an equal amount of sugar by weight—about 3 tablespoons of sugar per lemon if scales aren’t available. Gently muddle the mixture a few times to release the lemon oils, then cover and leave it at room temperature overnight to infuse.
- Strain the Oleo Saccharum: Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the lemon peel and sugar mixture into a clean jar or airtight container. Press down firmly with a spoon to extract all the flavorful liquid. This strained liquid is your lemon oleo saccharum, which serves as the base of the spritz.
- Assemble the Spritz: Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes to chill the drink thoroughly. Pour in 1 to 1.5 ounces of lemon oleo saccharum, then top it with 1 cup of lemon sparkling water or non-alcoholic Prosecco. Stir gently to combine the flavors evenly.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the spritz and, if desired, add 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice to impart extra brightness and acidity, enhancing the citrus notes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the drink with a thin lemon slice, a thyme sprig, or both for a visually appealing and aromatic touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing homemade limoncello spritz.
Notes
- When peeling lemons, avoid the white pith as it imparts bitterness to the oleo saccharum.
- You can adjust sugar quantities slightly depending on lemon size and sweetness preference.
- The lemon oleo saccharum can be prepared ahead of time and stored refrigerated for up to a week.
- For an alcoholic version, you may add a shot of limoncello or vodka to the spritz.
- Using non-alcoholic Prosecco or lemon sparkling water keeps this drink light and perfect for all ages.
