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The Cellar
By Inés Alcubierre, the Cellar desk1d agoUnited States3 min read
Refreshing Coffee Limoncello Spritz with Espresso

Refreshing Coffee Limoncello Spritz with Espresso

Coffee is an integral part of most people's morning routine. And often, another cup follows in the afternoon. But this aromatic hot beverage can do far more than just wake you up and accompany a slice of cake. Did you know you can also transform coffee into a refreshing drink?

Ingredients · Servings 1
  • ice cubes
  • 20 ml Limoncello 🛒
  • 10 ml Zuckersirup 🛒
  • 80 ml Prosecco
  • 20 ml Soda washer
  • 60 ml Espresso 🛒
  • 1 organic lemon
Method · 10 min
  1. Take a wine glass or a large tumbler glass and fill it with a handful of ice cubes.
  2. Pour the limoncello over the ice and stir briefly.
  3. To prevent the Coffee Limoncello Spritz from becoming too bitter, add the sugar syrup to the glass and stir briefly again.
  4. Pour the Prosecco and soda water into the glass.
  5. Prepare a double espresso and let it cool briefly.
  6. Pour the espresso slowly into the glass using the back of a spoon. This creates beautiful layers: the sparkling limoncello-prosecco mix at the bottom, and the dark coffee on top.
  7. Cut a thin strip of peel from the organic lemon and garnish the Coffee Limoncello Spritz with it.

Coffee is an integral part of most people's morning routine. And often, another cup follows in the afternoon. But this aromatic hot beverage can do far more than just wake you up and accompany a slice of cake. Did you know you can also transform coffee into a refreshing drink? Combined with the right ingredients, a classic espresso becomes a fantastic after-work drink. The Coffee Limoncello Spritz combines intense roasted aromas with a wonderful lightness.

When temperatures rise and you're in the mood for a special aperitif, this drink offers an exciting alternative to the classic Espresso Martini. Do you crave Mediterranean lightness in your glass? Then the Coffee Limoncello Spritz, with its blend of robust coffee notes and fruity liqueur, is just what you're looking for!

Coffee-Limoncello-Spritz: a refreshing coffee cocktail for balmy evenings

The fruity heart of this cocktail is the famous lemon liqueur from southern Italy. Limoncello is typically served ice-cold as a digestif after a large dinner. It consists primarily of the essential oils of fresh lemon peels, macerated with alcohol and sugar. This sweet yet tangy freshness makes it the perfect ingredient for summer mixed drinks.

The interplay with coffee creates a surprising flavor profile. Lemon and espresso have long been a tried-and-tested pairing in Italian coffee culture. A classic Espresso Romano, for example, is often served with a piece of lemon peel. The delicate acidity of the citrus fruit highlights the complex aromas of the coffee bean while simultaneously softening any bitterness.

For the perfect contrast to the sweet liqueur, you need a strong espresso. It provides the necessary depth and gives the Coffee Limoncello Spritz its distinctive character. Ideally, you should brew the coffee fresh and let it cool briefly. A medium to dark roast is particularly suitable, as it can stand up to the intense citrus notes of the limoncello. This combination of invigorating caffeine and fruity sweetness works wonderfully as a start to a long evening. You can also serve the drink as a sophisticated finale to a good meal.

The Coffee Limoncello Spritz gets its lightness from the addition of Prosecco and a generous splash of soda water. These two components create the typical effervescence of a classic Spritz. Alternatively, it can also be wonderfully topped with tonic water.

To prepare this drink, fill a large, wide-bowled glass generously with ice cubes. This not only chills the ingredients but also creates an appealing presentation. First, pour in the limoncello and prosecco, then carefully add the espresso. A small piece of untreated lemon peel completes the glass both visually and aromatically. With just a few simple steps, you can bring a taste of Italian bar culture right into your home.

A classic Negroni, a refreshing French 75 or a timeless Manhattan are also suitable ways to start an enjoyable evening.

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