Do you like lemon drinks but want one without alcohol? I have a great recipe for you! This non-alcoholic lemoncello is sweet, fresh, and easy to make. It tastes just like the real thing but without any alcohol. You can enjoy it anytime—at a party, with friends, or just when you want a cool, tasty drink.
Lemoncello is a bright yellow drink made from lemons. It is usually made with alcohol, but this version is safe for everyone. It has a strong lemon flavor and is a little sweet. It’s perfect for hot days or when you want something fresh and fun.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What You Need to Make It
You don’t need many things to make this drink. Here is what you will need:
That’s all! You probably have most of these at home.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: At least 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours and 50 minutes
This gives a clear idea of how long the whole process takes.
Instructions
Step 1: Wash and Peel the Lemons
First, wash the lemons well. Use a peeler or a small knife to take off the yellow skin. Be careful not to take the white part under the skin because it can taste bitter. Put the lemon peels in a bowl.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Syrup
Next, pour 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar into a small pot. Heat it on medium heat. Stir the water and sugar until the sugar melts. Then add the lemon peels to the pot. Let it cook for 10 minutes. After that, turn off the heat and let the syrup cool for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Strain the Syrup
After the syrup cools, take out the lemon peels. Pour the syrup into a big jar or pitcher. Add 2 cups of cold water and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything well.
Step 4: Chill the Drink
Put the jar in the fridge for at least 2 hours. The cold makes the drink taste better. When you want to drink it, pour it into glasses. You can add ice if you like.
Here are some tips to make your lemoncello drink even better. First, always use fresh lemons, as they provide the best flavor. Be careful not to include the white part of the lemon peel when you peel the lemons, as it can make the drink taste bitter.
If you prefer a less sweet drink, simply use less sugar in the recipe. For a fizzy twist, try adding sparkling water just before serving. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves to give the drink a cool, refreshing taste.
If you don’t have sparkling water, club soda or lemon-lime soda works well too.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 32 grams
- Sugar: 28 grams
- Vitamin C: About 30% of daily needs
Note: These numbers are estimates based on the syrup and sparkling water only.
How to Enjoy Your Lemoncello Drink
This drink is great on its own, but you can also try some ideas to enjoy it even more. You can mix it with iced tea for a nice lemony twist. Adding some crushed ice turns it into a refreshing slush. It also works well as a base for other drinks when you add fruit juice or a little ginger. Serve it at parties or family dinners—everyone will love it!
This non-alcoholic lemoncello is easy to make and tastes great. It uses simple ingredients you can find anywhere. You can make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s a nice way to enjoy lemon flavor without alcohol. Plus, it’s perfect for kids and adults.
Storage Tips

Lemoncello Drinks Non Alcoholic
Equipment
- Fine grater or zester
- Medium saucepan
- Glass jar with lid
- Sieve or strainer
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 5 large lemons
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Wash the lemons well. Use a peeler to take off the yellow skin, but try not to get the white part.
- Put the lemon peels in a bowl.
- Pour 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar into a small pot. Heat on medium and stir until the sugar melts.
- Add the lemon peels to the pot. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the syrup cool for 30 minutes.
- Take out the lemon peels and pour the syrup into a pitcher.
- Add 2 cups of cold water and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well.
- Put the pitcher in the fridge for at least 2 hours to chill.
- When ready to serve, pour into glasses and add ice if you like.
Notes
- Use fresh, organic lemons if you can for the best flavor.
- Avoid the white part of the lemon peel to keep the drink from tasting bitter.
- You can adjust the sugar to make the drink sweeter or less sweet.
I hope you try this recipe soon. It’s one of my favorite drinks to make at home. It’s fresh, sweet, and very tasty. If you make it, tell your friends and family. They will thank you! And if you want, you can add your own twist to the recipe.
Please pin this recipe and share it with your friends. I’m sure they’ll love this fresh, tasty lemoncello drink as much as you do!
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
You can, but fresh lemon peel gives the best flavor.
How long does the lemon syrup last?
It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Can I make the syrup sweeter?
Yes, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of honey while the syrup is warm.
Is this drink safe for kids?
Yes! It has no alcohol and is very refreshing for all ages.