Limoncello is a popular Italian lemon liqueur that is commonly served in small chilled glasses as an after-dinner digestif. It has a sweet, lemony flavor and packs a boozy punch at around 30% ABV (60 proof). But how many calories are actually in one shot of this bright yellow liqueur?
In this article, we’ll break down the calories and other nutritional information in a standard 1.5 ounce (44 ml) limoncello shot. We’ll look at the main factors that contribute to the calorie count, like alcohol content, sugar, and flavorings. We’ll also compare limoncello calories to other popular liquors to put things in perspective.
Understanding the calorie content of liquors like limoncello can help you make informed choices about what and how much you want to drink. So read on for a deep dive into limoncello nutrition facts and calories!
The Average Calorie Count Per Shot of Limoncello
Most sources estimate that a typical 1.5 ounce (44 ml) shot of limoncello contains around 150 calories. However, the exact calorie count can vary between different brands and styles of limoncello.
Here are some of the main factors that contribute to the calories in limoncello:
– Alcohol Content: Limoncello is relatively high in alcohol, with an ABV of around 30% (60 proof). Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram, which accounts for a significant portion of the calories.
– Sugar: Simple syrup is added when limoncello is made, making it a rather sweet liqueur. The sugar in limoncello also adds a considerable number of calories.
– Flavors: The flavors and oils from lemon zest add additional calories, although these make up a smaller percentage.
Overall, a 1.5 ounce shot provides around 150 calories, on average. But the exact amount can range from as low as 120 calories to as high as 180 calories, depending on the brand.
Nutrition Information Per 1.5 Ounce Shot of Limoncello
Here is more detailed nutritional information for a single shot of limoncello:
| Nutrition Facts | Per 1.5 oz (44 ml) Shot |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Alcohol | 16 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
As you can see, the vast majority of calories come from the alcohol (7 calories per gram) and sugar (4 calories per gram) content. Limoncello contains minimal fat, carbs, or protein.
The carbohydrates and sugar listed are exclusively from the added simple syrup or sucrose. Limoncello does not naturally contain carbs from the lemons.
So in each shot you are getting around 16 grams of alcohol and 12 grams of sugar, which adds up to 150 calories on average. Keep this information in mind if you are tracking your caloric or sugar intake.
How Limoncello Calories Compare to Other Popular Liquors
To put the calorie count of limoncello into perspective, here is how it compares per 1.5 ounce serving to some other popular liquors and liqueurs:
| Liquor | Calories |
|---|---|
| Limoncello | 150 |
| Vodka | 100 |
| Gin | 120 |
| Rum | 105 |
| Tequila | 105 |
| Whiskey | 105 |
| Amaretto | 150 |
As you can see, a shot of limoncello has a similar number of calories compared to other liqueurs like amaretto, and more calories than most straight liquors which are not as sweet.
The main takeaway is that liqueurs and cordials tend to be higher in calories due to their sugar content. Straight liquors like vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey have fewer calories from sugar.
So if you are concerned about calories, straight liquors combined with zero or low calorie mixers may be a better choice than sugary liqueurs. But you can still enjoy an occasional limoncello as long as you account for it in your calorie budget.
Tips for Serving Limoncello
Now that you know the calorie content in limoncello, here are some tips for serving it:
Enjoy It Chilled
Limoncello is best served ice-cold. Keep the bottle in the freezer and pour shots straight from there into small chilled glasses. The icy temperature enhances the bright, citrusy flavor.
Pair It With Dessert
Sip limoncello after dinner as a digestif. The sweet lemon flavor pairs perfectly with desserts like lemon cake, citrus sorbet, or vanilla panna cotta.
Drink It Slowly
Limoncello is strong, with 30% ABV. Sip it slowly and drink water between shots to stay hydrated.
Use a Measuring Jigger
To keep track of servings, use a measuring jigger that pours standard 1.5 ounce shots. This allows you to monitor your intake and calories.
Try Limoncello Cocktails
For a longer drink, mix limoncello with chilled prosecco or vodka soda. Or make a limoncello spritz by adding soda water and a lemon twist.
Potential Health Benefits and Downsides of Limoncello
Like any alcohol, drinking limoncello comes with both potential upsides and downsides in terms of health effects. Here is a quick look:
Potential Benefits
– Antioxidants from lemons may help reduce inflammation and cell damage
– May support heart health when consumed in moderation
– Provides hydration from water content
Potential Downsides
– High in calories and sugar which can contribute to weight gain
– Impairs coordination and judgement when consumed to excess
– Can cause dehydration and hangover when overconsumed
– Potential long term health risks if drinking regularly to excess
As with any liquor, it is best to enjoy limoncello in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. Drinking in excess may negate any potential benefits.
Making Your Own Limoncello at Home
Want to try your hand at making homemade limoncello? It just takes a few simple ingredients and steps:
Ingredients:
– 1 750ml bottle high-proof vodka
– Zest from 12-15 lemons
– 1 1/2 cups simple syrup
– 1 cup water
Directions:
1. Add lemon zest to vodka and let infuse in an airtight jar for 4-7 days.
2. Make simple syrup by heating sugar and water until dissolved. Let cool.
3. Strain lemon vodka mixture through a cheesecloth into a sealable jar.
4. Add simple syrup and stir well to combine.
5. Let limoncello rest for 1-2 weeks before serving chilled.
You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less simple syrup. For a final touch, garnish drinks with a lemon twist. Homemade limoncello makes a great gift or after dinner treat!
The Bottom Line
A 1.5 ounce shot of limoncello contains around 150 calories on average, which comes mostly from alcohol and sugar. It has a similar calorie count to other liqueurs like amaretto, and more than straight liquors like vodka or whiskey. While limoncello provides some antioxidants from lemons, overconsumption can lead to excess calories and other downsides. Enjoy limoncello in moderation and account for the calories in your daily intake. Sip it slowly, chilled, after a meal and drink plenty of water to stay balanced and hydrated.
