Save
This limoncello spritz is my go-to for sunny afternoons and summer get-togethers, delivering sparkling citrus bliss in every sip. The blend of cool prosecco and vibrant lemon liqueur makes it a favorite when you want something effortless yet truly special.
When I first mixed this for friends, it disappeared faster than any punch I have ever served. Now it is my must-have for backyard gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Limoncello: This Italian lemon liqueur is the main source of the drink’s bright citrus flavor and sweetness
- Prosecco: Choose a dry or extra dry sparkling wine for bubbles and lightness — chilled prosecco keeps the drink crisp
- Sparkling water or club soda: This helps mellow the sweetness and adds extra fizz. Shop for a good brand without artificial flavors
- Lemon slices: For garnish and a burst of aroma — pick unwaxed and fresh lemons for the best presentation
- Mint sprigs: Fresh mint lifts the drink with herbal notes. Buy crisp leaves that are bright and free from spots
Instructions
- Fill the Glass with Ice:
- Add plenty of ice to a large wine or spritz glass. The extra ice helps keep every element perfectly chilled and slows dilution so the spritz stays refreshing
- Add the Limoncello:
- Pour two ounces of limoncello into the glass. This sets the citrusy sweet foundation for your drink
- Add the Prosecco:
- Slowly add four ounces of prosecco. Pour gently along the side of the glass to hold onto as much effervescent fizz as possible
- Top with Sparkling Water:
- Pour in one to two ounces of cold sparkling water or club soda. This tames the sweetness and adds a lively sparkle
- Garnish:
- Slide a slice or two of fresh lemon into the glass and tuck in a mint sprig. Give the spritz a gentle swirl for full flavor and inhale the lemony aroma before you sip
Limoncello is my favorite thing about this spritz. I fell in love with it in Italy, where every meal seemed to end with a tiny glass of this golden liqueur. Its zingy flavor transforms a simple drink into something you want to slow down and savor with friends.
Storage Tips
Make each spritz fresh for best fizz and temperature. Do not prep in advance because sparkling drinks lose their bubbles quickly and will taste flat. Keep your limoncello prosecco and club soda ice-cold in the refrigerator so the drink does not dilute when poured over ice. If you have leftover limoncello seal and store it in the freezer for future cocktails.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find prosecco you can use another dry sparkling wine such as cava or a California sparkler. Try lemon-flavored sparkling water for extra punch or play with different citrus garnishes like orange or grapefruit slices in a pinch. For a lower-alcohol version use more sparkling water and a splash less prosecco.
Serving Suggestions
This spritz is perfect on a brunch table at a picnic or paired with salty nibbles like olives and nuts. It shines when served in a big wine glass with a colorful garnish. Try adding a fresh herby sprig like basil or rosemary for a fun twist. For group parties set up a spritz station where everyone can build their own.
Cultural Notes
Limoncello has been enjoyed for decades along Italy’s Amalfi coast where families make their own recipes with fragrant Sorrento lemons. The spritz itself is a northern Italian tradition with roots in warm afternoons spent people-watching at a patio bar. Mixing the two brings together tradition and easy good times.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use blood orange slices in winter for a more dramatic look Watermelon chunks in summer add a playful sweet touch Toss in a lavender sprig during the spring for a floral accent
Success Stories
One summer evening my neighbor and I tried making the spritz for a block party. Even folks who never drink cocktails loved the zesty flavor and light bubbles. It became our secret recipe for neighborhood gatherings and a reason to slow down and share a laugh.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While you cannot freeze a limoncello spritz itself you can keep a bottle of limoncello in your freezer so it is always icy-cold and ready for guests. This makes last-minute entertaining a breeze with zero effort. When you pull it out and pour over fresh prosecco everyone is instantly impressed.
Let your guests squeeze in extra fresh lemon juice if they crave more tang. This limoncello spritz guarantees happy company and instant vacation vibes.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of prosecco works best?
A dry or extra dry prosecco balances the citrus sweetness, allowing the limoncello's flavor to shine.
- → Can I prepare limoncello spritz ahead of time?
It's best mixed fresh. Pre-mixing can cause the bubbles to go flat and dilute the flavors.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Use more prosecco for a drier taste, or add extra club soda to reduce sweetness and alcohol content.
- → Are there garnish alternatives?
Try basil or orange slices for a twist, though classic fresh mint and lemon complement the drink perfectly.
- → What glassware is ideal for serving?
Serve in a large wine glass filled with ice for the best presentation and enjoyment.