Limoncello Spritz (So Refreshing!)

The Limoncello Spritz is a bright, refreshing cocktail bursting with citrus flavor! A limoncello spritz with prosecco is the ultimate warm-weather cocktail, perfectly balancing sweet and tart flavors. In this post, I’ll show you how to mix the perfect limoncello spritz, share garnish ideas, and offer food pairing suggestions to enjoy this drink to the fullest.

Perfect Limoncello Spritz (Easy & Refreshing!)

My drink of choice last summer was the Strawberry Aperol Spritz. I made spritzes for my close friends and family as well, and at one point my neighbor told me to try a limoncello spritz. 

She said that if I liked the fruity flavor of a strawberry Aperol spritz, then I’d definitely love the flavor of a limoncello spritz. She was right! 

If you love lemon-forward cocktails, this one is for you! It’s a sweeter alternative to an Aperol Spritz, requiring just three ingredients. The key to the best limoncello prosecco spritz? Getting the ratios just right for a balanced, not-too-sweet drink.

What Is a Limoncello Spritz? 

As the name suggests, this cocktail is part of the spritz family, which includes variations like the Aperol Spritz.

The spritz cocktail itself dates back to the 1800s when Austro-Hungarian soldiers stationed in Italy found the local wines too strong. To dilute them, they added a “spritz” (splash) of water—hence the name!

A limoncello spritz with prosecco follows the same formula as the classic Aperol Spritz but swaps Aperol for limoncello, creating a sweeter, citrus-forward drink. This cocktail is typically served before a meal (aperitif) to stimulate the appetite.

What Does a Limoncello Spritz Taste Like?

• Bright & Citrusy: The dominant lemon flavor makes this cocktail light and refreshing.
• Sweet & Crisp: Limoncello adds sweetness, balanced by the dryness of prosecco.
• Effervescent: Thanks to prosecco and club soda, it’s light, bubbly, and ultra-refreshing.

If you love bubbly cocktails, a limoncello spritzer is a fantastic choice, but if you prefer something less sweet, you might enjoy a Grapefruit Vodka Tonic or Rosemary Gin Fizz instead.

Tools You’ll Need to Make a Limoncello Spritz

One of the best things about a limoncello spritz cocktail is that it doesn’t require a cocktail shaker—everything is built directly in the glass! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Jigger – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Paring knife – To cut lemon slices or create a lemon twist garnish.
• Balloon glass or wine glass – A traditional spritz glass allows for better carbonation and aroma.

Ingredients for a Limoncello Spritz

You’ll need just three simple ingredients to make a refreshing limoncello spritz cocktail. Below is an overview of each ingredient in this refreshing spritzer. 

For the complete ingredient list and detailed instructions, scroll to the bottom of this post for the FREE printable recipe card.

• Prosecco – A dry Italian sparkling wine. Look for DOC or DOCG labels for quality!
• Limoncello – A sweet Italian lemon liqueur with intense citrus flavor.
• Club Soda – Lightly carbonated water to add extra fizz.

Pro Tip: Always chill the ingredients ahead of time to keep your drink extra cold and refreshing!

What Is Limoncello?

Limoncello is a sweet Italian lemon liqueur made by steeping lemon zest in vodka or grain alcohol with sugar. It has a vibrant yellow color, syrupy texture, and bold citrus flavor.

Traditionally served chilled as an aperitif or digestif, it’s also great in cocktails.

What Is Prosecco?

Prosecco is a sparkling Italian white wine from northern Italy. For the best quality, choose bottles labeled DOC or DOCG, which guarantee authenticity and high production standards.

If unavailable, dry sparkling wine or Champagne works as a substitute.

What Is Club Soda?

Club soda is carbonated water with added minerals, making it fizzier than sparkling water and ideal for spritz cocktails.

If substituting, use sparkling water, but avoid tonic water, which has a bitter taste.

The Perfect Limoncello Spritz Ratio (3-2-1 Rule)

A classic spritz follows the 3-2-1 rule:

✔ 3 parts bubbly (prosecco)
✔ 2 parts liqueur (limoncello)
✔ 1 part soda (club soda)

This limoncello spritz recipe sticks to that classic formula, ensuring a well-balanced drink that’s not too sweet or too strong.

Best Garnishes for a Limoncello Spritz (+ My Favorites!)

A great cocktail deserves an equally great garnish! Here are some of my favorite garnishes for a limoncello spritzer: 

• Lemon Twist – Enhances the citrusy notes.
• Lemon Slices – A simple yet elegant garnish.
• Fresh Mint or Basil – Adds an herbal contrast.
• Berries on a Cocktail Pick – Raspberries or strawberries pair beautifully!

Perfect Appetizers to Serve with a Limoncello Spritz

Because limoncello spritzers are an aperitif, they’re best paired with light, flavorful bites that enhance their citrusy, bubbly profile. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or enjoying a casual drink, these appetizers will complement the bright flavors of your spritz.

• Cheese & Charcuterie — Marinated Feta, Marinated Olives
• Savory Bites — Olive Puff Pastry Cups, Homemade Microwave Popcorn, Cucumber Roll Ups
• Crostini — Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Goat Cheese, Summer Squash Crostini, Asparagus Puff Pastry Squares
• Seafood Options — Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon.

For a full Italian-inspired spread, serve your limoncello spritz with a combination of marinated olives, creamy cheeses, and seafood for the perfect summer gathering!

Limoncello Spritz FAQs

Got questions about how to make this easy limoncello cocktail? Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions. Feel free to leave any other questions in the comments on this post and I’ll respond with answers.

What type of glass should a spritz be served in?

Balloon or wine glasses are typical for making spritz cocktails. We love these elegant wine glasses. If you make spritz cocktails often, it’s worth investing in a good set of wine glasses! 

Is a limoncello spritz be served over ice? 

Yes! I recommend using ice cubes rather than crushed ice so that the drink doesn’t become diluted too quickly. 

On a similar note, make sure to serve your drink immediately as the ice will melt and the prosecco will lose its carbonation over time. 

Can I use Champagne instead of prosecco?

Yes, but prosecco is preferred since it’s lighter and fruitier. Champagne will make the drink slightly drier.

How long does a limoncello spritz stay fizzy?

It’s best enjoyed immediately! Over time, the prosecco will lose its carbonation.

Is this drink gluten-free?

Yes, limoncello and prosecco are both naturally gluten-free, but check the labels if it’s a health concern for you. 

Want a Non-Alcoholic Version?

Try a Limoncello Spritz Mocktail by swapping prosecco for Gruvi Non-Alcoholic Prosecco and making a simple lemon syrup instead of limoncello!

To make a simple lemon syrup, combine ½ cup lemon juice, ½ cup water, zest of 2 lemons, 1 cup sugar in a saucepan and heat until the sugar has dissolved. 

Safety tip: Depending on the brand you use, some alcohol-removed spirits may still contain trace amounts of alcohol. Check before using if you’re pregnant, serving the mocktails to kids, etc.

When is the best time to serve a limoncello spritz? 

Any spritz cocktail — like this limoncello spritzer — is intended to be served as an aperitif. It’s a low-ABV cocktail that’s meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal. 

I don’t restrict my limoncello spritz enjoyment to mealtimes, though. Since it’s a cold, refreshing cocktail I like to enjoy a glass or two on a hot summer day when I’m hanging out on the patio or by the pool. 

Try This Limoncello Spritzer Recipe

Have you tried this Limoncello Spritz? Let me know how you served it in the comments—I’d love to hear your twists on this classic cocktail! Your feedback helps others too!

Made this spritz? Snap a pic and tag me @goodlifeeats with #goodlifeeatsrecipes—I love seeing your creations!

More Refreshing Cocktails to Try

This cocktail has quickly become a favorite in my house—especially on warm summer nights! Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, I hope you love it as much as I do. Cheers!

Craving more refreshing drinks? Try these fruity summer cocktails next:

Pineapple, cilantro, and lime juice infuse this Pineapple Margarita with refreshing summer flavors. Make a small batch or prepare in a pitcher for parties! 

Peach Sangria is a delicious and summer cocktail that’s easy to make. The peach flavors combine perfectly with the rosé for a delightful drink you are sure to enjoy! 

Strong, tart, and slightly sweet, a Mai Tai Cocktail is a classic rum cocktail that will transport you straight to the tropics!

Made with just three ingredients, this Strawberry Mimosa recipe is so easy to make! Strawberry mimosas are perfect for special occasion brunches, Valentine’s Day, or breakfast in bed!

Don’t see what you’re looking for here? You can always head over to check out the recipe index to look for more recipes.

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