Is it possible to make low-alcohol Limoncello?
Lemons are currently in season and dirt cheap. I'd like to make a homemade Limoncello.
The recipe I'm using calls for odorless, high-ABV (150+ proof) spirit, like Everclear. Unfortunately, my state doesn't allow the sale of high ABV spirits.
Can I use a lower ABV, like vodka, as a stand in? Will this change steeping time?
Best Answer
There are plenty of recipes for limoncello/lemoncello out there that use vodka. I would reference one specifically calling for vodka rather than adapting one that relies on either 150 or 190 proof Everclear.
The higher alcohol content means a stronger extract from the lemons (does not necessarily apply to leeching of sugars, just oils), and a corresponding need to be sugared down more. As vodka is easier to just sip and lower in alcohol, it would likely require less simple syrup, and either more lemons, agitation, longer steeping or a combination thereof.
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Can you get non alcoholic limoncello?
There is also a version made with milk instead of syrup: crema di limoncello. With an alcohol percentage of about 17%, this is slightly less strong than classic limoncello, which contains around 30% alcohol. But for those who don't want alcohol at all, there is now also alcohol-free limoncello.What percent alcohol should limoncello be?
Alcohol content can vary widely, especially among homemade variants, but the typical alcohol content is about 30% by volume.What is a non alcoholic substitute for limoncello?
Lemon syrup is an excellent alcohol-free choice for replacing limoncello in recipes and cocktails. The syrup is a lemony, sugary liquid that is a similar consistency to the original ingredient.Is all limoncello alcoholic?
Limoncello is made by steeping lemon zest (peels) in highly concentrated ethanol or vodka until oil is released, then mixing the resulting yellow liquid with simple syrup. Its alcohol content varies\u2014especially among homemade varieties\u2014but is usually measured somewhere in the 25-30% range.How to make Limoncello | Gennaro Contaldo
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Answer 2
You should be able to use vodka just fine. I don't know for sure, but I doubt it would severely impact any of the variables in the recipe. I think a little trial and error is your best bet.
This is strictly anecdotal, but my father made a limoncello using vodka, and it turned out pretty great.
Answer 3
Yes, you can use a lower-proof alcohol to make limoncello. In fact, I've seen vodka used more commonly (1 2) than everclear.
I'm not sure what baseline your everclear recipe gives for steeping time, but with vodka you need to steep for around a week. As for sugar, this is largely going to be a matter of preference, so feel free to change the amount to your taste.
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