Drink

Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

Millie Pham

Sure thing! Let’s mix up a Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail—a simple, zesty, slightly sweet drink with a warm bourbon kick.

It’s bright and refreshing from the lemon, with a touch of sweetness from the limoncello, and that smooth bourbon flavor that makes this one feel a little fancy, without any fuss.

It’s perfect for summer evenings, dinner parties, or just a chill night on the porch.

🍹 What You’ll Need

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz limoncello
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist (for garnish)
  • Optional: sprig of fresh thyme or mint for garnish
Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

💡 Pro Tips

  1. Use fresh lemon juice – it really makes a difference in the flavor.
  2. Chill your glass before pouring the drink—it keeps everything cold longer.
  3. Use a big ice cube or sphere so it melts slower and doesn’t water down the drink.
  4. Garnish like a pro – a simple twist of lemon or a herb sprig makes it feel fancy.
  5. Make a pitcher if you’re hosting – this cocktail scales up beautifully!

🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

  • Jigger or small measuring cup
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Strainer
  • Short glass (like a rocks glass)
  • Citrus juicer (optional)
  • Bar spoon (optional, for stirring)

🔁 Substitutions & Variations

  • No limoncello? Use triple sec and a bit of extra lemon juice.
  • No bourbon? Try rye whiskey or even dark rum for a twist.
  • Sweeter version? Add a touch of simple syrup or honey.
  • Herbal version? Muddle fresh thyme or rosemary into the shaker.

🕒 Make-Ahead Tips

  • Mix the bourbon, limoncello, and lemon juice in a pitcher and store in the fridge for a few hours. Shake with ice and pour when ready to serve.

🥄 Instructions

Step 1: Juice the Lemon

Instructions: Juice half a lemon to get about 1/2 oz of fresh lemon juice. Set aside.

Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

Step 2: Fill Your Shaker with Ice

Instructions: Fill your cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes.

Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

Step 3: Add Bourbon, Limoncello, and Lemon Juice

Instructions: Pour 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of limoncello, and 1/2 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker over the ice.

Step 4: Shake it Up

Instructions: Put the lid on and shake well for about 10–15 seconds until the outside feels cold.

Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

Step 5: Strain and Serve

Instructions: Strain into a chilled short glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon twist and optional herb sprig.

Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail

🧊 Leftovers & Storage

This drink is best fresh, but you can store the pre-mixed bourbon, limoncello, and lemon juice (without ice) in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake with ice just before serving. Avoid storing once it’s been diluted with ice.

🥂 Wrap-Up

This Bourbon Limoncello Cocktail is proof that simple can still feel special. It’s citrusy, smooth, and just strong enough to sip slowly and savor. Give it a try, make it your own, and don’t forget to drop a comment below—let me know how it turned out or if you have any fun twists to share!

Hi there! I'm Millie Pham, a devoted brewer and tea lover at heart. As the founder of Bean Leaf Cup, my mission is to share my tea and coffee expertise with you all. I firmly believe that creating a fantastic cup of tea or coffee should be easy for everyone. No matter if you're already a coffee or tea expert or just beginning your journey, I'm here to help you navigate the world of brewing. Welcome aboard!