Limoncello

Limoncello is an Italian lemon liqueur taken as an after dinner drink which is referred to as a "digestivo".  This popular liqueur is produce in Italy, most famously in Sorrento and Capri but is produced in other areas as well. The typical alcohol content is about 28% to 32%.

The drink is rather thick and very sweet. For drinking the liqueur should be stored in the freezer so it is icy cold.  In addition to be used as a beverage it is also used in many desserts including sorbets, cakes and cookies.  It can be used as a simple topping for ice cream.  It's used occasionally in savory dishes.

Substitute For Limoncello

If you don't have Limoncello you have a couple of options but if is a main ingredient in the recipe you may want to wait until you can find it:

• If you are using it as a flavoring you could substitute lemon extract mixed with a little sugar.  Use about 1 teaspoon extract per 2 tablespoons of Limoncello needed.  Taste and adjust the extract and sugar as needed.
• OR - Another no-alcohol option is to use Torani Lemon Syrup.  It's thick, syrupy and lemony,  similar to Limoncello without the alcohol. This is readily available on Amazon.com and Walmart (online).  World Market stores sells the syrup as well.
• OR - For a different flavor and for pouring over ice cream you can use Creme de Menthe.
• OR - If you want another "digestivo" Sambuca.