Limoncello Martini (Gin Limoncello Cocktail)

This Limoncello Martini is bright, refreshing and super easy to make! Made with limoncello, gin, lemon and basil, this cocktail will soon be on repeat in your home!

If you love these fresh, spring flavors, you’ll also want to try my Basil Limoncello Cocktail and Garden Limoncello Spritz!

If you like the flavors of a lemon drop martini but don’t love vodka, this recipe is for you! This variation of a lemon drop martini is made with limoncello and gin. I added a touch of basil for a fresh, herbal boost. It works perfectly! Another great warm weather gin cocktail is my Best Apricot Cocktail Recipe with Gin!

Recipe Ingredients

See the recipe card for quantities.

• Fresh basil: For the cocktail and garnish. Mint would be a nice replacement.
• Limoncello: Pick a good quality limoncello or make your own.
• Gin: Go for a good quality gin. I used Ford’s Gin which is a balanced London Dry Gin. Hendrick’s would be great for it’s fresh, cucumber notes. Vodka would also work in this recipe.
• Lemon juice: Fresh is always best!
• Simple syrup: 1 part sugar, 1 part water. Honey syrup or agave would also work.
• Lemon slice, edible flowers: Optional for garnish.

Tools & Equipment List

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Martini Glasses

Check out my favorite glasses here!

How to Make It

Step 1: Clap 5 basil leaves between your palms to release oils. To a cocktail shaker: Add clapped basil, limoncello, gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and ice. Shake until well chilled.

Step 2: Strain cocktail into a martini glass (preferably chilled). If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with lemon, basil and edible flowers.

Watch How to Make It

@thesocialsipper

I could be wrong, but I feel like this will be the best drink you have all weekend 🍋🍸 Limoncello Martini (makes 1) ◻️ 5 basil leaves, plus more for garnish ◻️ 1 ½ oz limoncello ◻️ 1 ½ oz gin ◻️ ½ oz lemon juice  ◻️ ¼ oz simple syrup ◻️ Lemon slice, for garnish ◻️ Edible flowers, for garnish 1. Clap basil leaves between your palms to release oils. Add to a cocktail shaker. Add limoncello, gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and ice. Shake until chilled. 2. Strain into a martini glass. If desired, garnish with lemon, basil and edible flowers. #limoncello #martini #martinitime #martinicocktail

♬ original sound – The Social Sipper

Tips for Making a Limoncello Martini

• Chill your martini glass.
• Taste your cocktail before straining and add more simple syrup if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of alcohol is in limoncello?

Limoncello is an Italian liqueur that’s made with lemon peels. It is typically made with a high proof alcohol like grain alcohol (like Everclear) or vodka.

Limoncello Martini vs Lemon Drop Martini?

A Limoncello Martini is made with limoncello, gin and lemon juice and simple syrup. A Lemon Drop Martini has a similar profile and is made with vodka, triple sec, lemon juice and simple syrup.

Can I make a Limoncello Martini with vodka?

Absolutely! Replace the gin for a high quality vodka and follow the recipe.

Big Batch Freezer Limoncello Martini

Limoncello Martinis are great for making ahead and batching. Prepare this recipe a few hours before serving and store in the freezer for up to 10 days.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups limoncello
• 1 1/2 cups gin
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 2-3 tbsp water
• Basil, for serving

Directions

1. Add ingredients to a freezer safe bottle, seal and gently shake to combine. Place bottle in freezer to chill for a few hours before serving. When chilled, taste and optionally add more water to dilute to your taste.
2. Serve in martini glasses with basil. Store any extra in freezer or refrigerator until you’re ready to use. The drink may get slushy in the freezer, so plan to remove a bit before serving to thaw.

More Refreshing Lemon Cocktails to Try

• Empress Gin Lavender Lemonade Cocktail Recipe
• Raspberry Rose Lemon Drop
• Rhubarb Sgroppino
• Finlandia Lemon Meringue Cocktail

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