Meloncello
Indulge in the luscious, creamy sweetness of homemade Meloncello, a decadent twist on the traditional Italian limoncello that celebrates the delicate flavor of ripe cantaloupe. This vibrant liqueur is crafted by infusing fresh melon with vodka, creating a fragrant base that's perfectly balanced with a velvety combination of heavy cream and a touch of vanilla. Sweetened with a simple syrup, this refreshing after-dinner treat is both smooth and indulgent—ideal for sipping chilled or drizzling over desserts. With just a few simple steps and some patience to let the flavors develop, this easy Meloncello recipe is a show-stopping addition to your repertoire. Perfect for summer gatherings or elegant dinners, it’s a gourmet delight that keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three weeks.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams Ripe cantaloupe (or other similar melon)
- 500 ml Vodka (or neutral grain alcohol)
- 200 grams Granulated sugar
- 200 ml Water
- 250 ml Heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
Peel the cantaloupe and remove the seeds. Cut the flesh into small cubes.
Place the melon pieces in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Pour in the vodka, ensuring the melon is fully submerged.
Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 7 days, shaking gently once a day to infuse the flavors.
After 7 days, strain the melon-infused vodka through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Discard the melon pieces.
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has fully dissolved to create a simple syrup. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
Once cooled, mix the simple syrup with the melon-infused vodka. Stir to combine.
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and fully incorporated.
Pour the finished Meloncello into a sterilized bottle and seal tightly.
Refrigerate the Meloncello for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Shake well before use.
Serve chilled in small glasses. The Meloncello can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2934 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 84.4 g | 108% | |
| Saturated Fat | 50.3 g | 251% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 250 mg | 83% | |
| Sodium | 171 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 241.1 g | 88% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 238.0 g | ||
| Protein | 4.1 g | 8% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 56 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 1340 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
