14 ways to use limoncello

Make the most of the iconic lemony Italian liqueur, limoncello, in these zesty recipes. Try our simple step-by-step recipe, or use a shop-bought bottle for a boozy twist to summer tarts, pies and cocktails.

For more zingy tipples, check out our best citrus cocktails, including blood orange margaritas, or take a look at the best digestifs to try for post-supper sipping. We also have more Italian recipes and desserts so you can curate the ultimate Italian dinner party menu.

How to make it yourself: Limoncello

Mix vodka, sugar and the best-quality lemons you can find to make this winningly simple homemade limoncello. Perfect as an aperitif or for post-supper sipping alongside an Italian-inspired feast. If you want to stock up on shop-bought limoncello, we like this Limoncello de Capri, Santa Marta and Pallini Limoncello.

Other ways to use limoncello

Limoncello drizzle cake

Put an Italian spin on a classic lemon drizzle. The addition of soured cream keeps the sponge moist, light and fluffy. Enjoy with lemon tea.

Limoncello tiramisu

This is a boozy limoncello tiramisu recipe inspired by a limoncello spritz cocktail, which traditionally includes prosecco. Perfect for a dinner party dessert. You will need a 20cm square tin for this recipe.

Limoncello spritz

Make this limoncello spritz as a refreshing cocktail for a warm summer's evening.

Limoncello and thyme collins

Homemade limoncello is livened with gin, soda and thyme in this herby twist on a collins. Fix yourself a glass on a warm summer's day and you're good to go.

Check out more of our zingy summer cocktails here, including white wine sangria and banana daiquiri.

Limoncello baba

Limoncello offers a boozy kick with zingy lemon in this smart Italian dessert. This recipe serves up to eight, perfect for a dinner party. For more Italian puds check out our best Italian dessert recipes.

Limoncello tart

The combination of perfectly crisp, golden brown pastry and smooth, sharp-yet-sweet lemon curd makes the ultimate tart au citron. We've pepped it with boozy limoncello for an Italian twist.

Make this impressive pud for a light yet seriously moreish dinner party dessert, then check out more of the best easy dessert recipes.

Limoncello spritz

Our refreshing limoncello spritz is deceptively easy to make – all you'll need is limoncello, sparkling wine, sparkling water and a little fresh thyme.

Find plenty more of our citrussy cocktail recipes here.

Limoncello meringue pie

Put lemons to great use in this beautiful limoncello-flavoured pie. It's a great way to zest up an afternoon tea, or present to guests at an Italian-inspired dinner. Take a browse through our best lemon desserts for more zesty sweet treats.

Lemon polenta cake

Make like the Italians with this dense, rich polenta cake, spiked with a boozy limoncello syrup. Find more variations on a traditional polenta cake here.

Sgroppino

Limoncello, lemon ice cream and prosecco meet in this sophisticated yet super easy cocktail-cum-dessert. Make it for a refreshing end to a summer get-together.

Enjoy la dolce vita from your own home with more Italian recipes.

Limoncello granita

Golden caster sugar, lemons and limoncello liqueur – homemade granita really is that simple. Try this smart dessert for your next dinner party – you can prepare ahead to make entertaining a breeze.

Limoncello syllabub with crushed amaretti

Experiment with limoncello in this speedy syllabub topped with crushed amaretti biscuits. This recipe makes up to six, so it's great for a summer party.

Limoncello negroni

Just when you thought you saw it all… limoncello makes a surprisingly good addition to a negroni in place of vermouth, served over ice with a lemon twist.

The lively Australian cocktail

This refreshing aperitif comes bursting with citrus and floral notes, pairing zesty limoncello with a semi-dry white vermouth for a real kick. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and basil leaf and enjoy!