Top view of a limoncello cocktail on a cloth napkin with lemons around it on a grey counter.

When life hands you lemons, make a Limoncello Martini! This delightful cocktail is a zesty and refreshing twist on the classic martini, perfect for brightening up any occasion. Let’s dive into the world of this sunny Italian-inspired libationโ€”you’re in for a treat!

Front view of a limoncello martini in a martini glass with a lemon twist on the rim, whole lemons near the foot of the glass.

Does limoncello need a mixer? 

One of the best things about limoncello is that it’s so versatile. It’s a star on its own and great for after-dinner sipping. But it also plays incredibly well with others! You can enjoy limoncello straight as a chilled digestif or use it as a mixer in various cocktails, including this Limoncello Martini.

What’s in this limoncello martini?

  • Limoncello:ย The heart and soul of the martini, limoncello is a sweet Italian lemon liqueur known for its vibrant yellow hue and bold lemon flavor.
  • Vodka:ย To give the martini its classic martini kick, you’ll need a good-quality vodka. It adds a clean and crisp alcohol element to balance the sweetness of the limoncello.
  • Lemon Juice:ย Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tangy, citrusy punch that cuts through the sweetness of the limoncello, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
  • Simple Syrup: A touch of simple syrup or sugar is used to balance the tartness of the lemon juice and enhance the overall sweetness.
  • Ice: A few ice cubes keep your martini frosty and refreshing.
A chilled limoncello cocktail in a tall footed glass with a lemon twist on the rim.

Can I use homemade limoncello?

Absolutely! If you have a homemade batch of our limoncello recipe tucked away, it’s an excellent choice. The advantage of homemade limoncello is that you can control its sweetness and lemony intensity to suit your taste. Just ensure it’s well-chilled before crafting your martini. 

If you don’t have homemade limoncello, don’t worry โ€“ there are plenty of excellent commercial options available.

How do I make a limoncello martini?

Grab your cocktail shaker, and let’s make a martini! Add the limoncello, vodka, simple syrup, lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Cover and shake, shake, shake until the shaker feels frosty. Strain into a prepared martini glass and garnish with lemon peel. That’s it!

A limoncello martini stands on a striped kitchen linen on a grey counter with four whole lemons nearby.

Want more refreshing cocktail recipes like this one?

Top view of a limoncello cocktail on a cloth napkin with lemons around it on a grey counter.

Limoncello Martini Recipe

Yield: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Limoncello martinis are like sunshine in a glass - zesty, sweet, and utterly refreshing.

Ingredients

  • Ice
  • 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) limoncello
  • 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) vodka
  • 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) simple syrup
  • 1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon peel, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Combine ice, limoncello, vodka, simple syrup, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Close lid and shake until well combined and chilled.
  2. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a lemon peel.

Notes

  • This amount of simple syrup makes for a cocktail thatโ€™s on the sweeter side. Feel free to use more or less simple syrup to make your perfect martini.
  • To make simple syrup, simmer one cup sugar in one cup of water, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from the heat and chill until needed.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 223Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 53mgCarbohydrates: 59gFiber: 1gSugar: 35gProtein: 0g

At Wholefully, we believe that good nutrition is about much more than just the numbers on the nutrition facts panel. Please use the above information as only a small part of what helps you decide what foods are nourishing for you.

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