Pineapple Limoncello Spritz Recipe

Name: Pineapple Limoncello Spritz
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 1/2 ozs Limoncello; 4 Fresh Basil Leaves; 1 tablespoon Agave syrup, or more to taste; 2 ozs Pineapple Juice

Ingredients

This recipe yields 2 servings. Ingredient quantities adjust automatically, but cooking steps remain the same. Note: Not all recipes scale perfectly.

1 1/2 fl oz limoncello
4 fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp agave syrup, or to taste
2 fl oz pineapple juice

Directions

In a cocktail shaker, combine limoncello, basil leaves, and agave syrup. Gently muddle the basil to release its aroma and flavor.
Add pineapple juice and ice to the shaker, then cover and shake vigorously until the shaker feels frosty on the outside.
Strain the mixture into 2 chilled martini or champagne glasses, filling each halfway.
Top each glass with prosecco and garnish with a pineapple wedge or lemon slice for a refreshing finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 121
Total Fat: 0g (0%)
Saturated Fat: 0g (0%)
Cholesterol: 0mg (0%)
Sodium: 1mg (0%)
Total Carbohydrates: 21g (8%)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (0%)
Total Sugars: 19g
Protein: 0g (0%)
Vitamin C: 16mg (18%)
Calcium: 6mg (0%)
Iron: 0mg (1%)
Potassium: 45mg (1%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your values may vary depending on your calorie needs. Consult a healthcare professional for medically restrictive diets.

The Story Behind the Pineapple Limoncello Spritz

The Pineapple Limoncello Spritz is a modern twist on traditional Italian aperitifs, combining the zesty sweetness of limoncello with the tropical flavor of pineapple. Limoncello itself originates from Southern Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast, where lemons have been cultivated for centuries. The drink evolved as mixologists began experimenting with fruit juices and fresh herbs, creating refreshing cocktails perfect for warm-weather gatherings. By incorporating pineapple and fresh basil, this spritz brings together Mediterranean citrus traditions and tropical flair, resulting in a light, effervescent beverage that is as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Regional Variations and Features

While the original limoncello spritz hails from Italy, the addition of pineapple reflects a broader, global approach to cocktail culture. In coastal regions of the United States, particularly in California and Florida, bartenders often add tropical fruits like pineapple or passion fruit to enhance sweetness and aroma. Meanwhile, in Southern Europe, the classic spritz remains closer to its roots with Aperol or Campari as the base, emphasizing bitter and citrus notes. The Pineapple Limoncello Spritz stands out for its combination of herbal freshness from basil, sweetness from agave, and sparkling effervescence from prosecco, offering a uniquely layered flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Drinks

Unlike a traditional Aperol or Campari spritz, the Pineapple Limoncello Spritz is sweeter, fruitier, and lighter in bitterness. The use of limoncello as a base provides a strong lemon essence without the sharpness of citrus peel liqueurs. The inclusion of pineapple juice adds a tropical dimension that separates it from standard citrus spritzes. Additionally, fresh basil introduces a subtle herbal note, making this cocktail more aromatic and complex than simple sparkling wine-based drinks.

Typical Settings for Serving

This cocktail is often served in upscale summer parties, brunches, and seaside gatherings. Its bright, tropical presentation makes it ideal for social occasions, outdoor patios, and poolside lounges. It pairs exceptionally well with light appetizers such as bruschetta, seafood tapas, or fresh fruit platters. Its festive appearance, with a garnish of pineapple or lemon wedge, ensures it stands out on any cocktail table.

Interesting Facts

Limoncello has been produced in Italy since at least the early 20th century, with recipes passed down through generations of Amalfi Coast families.
The combination of basil and pineapple is inspired by modern culinary trends that blend sweet and herbal notes for a more complex flavor experience.
This cocktails low-calorie content (around 121 kcal per serving) makes it a popular choice for health-conscious guests who still want a sophisticated drink.
The effervescence from prosecco not only adds sparkle but also enhances the aromatic profile, allowing the basil and pineapple to shine through.
Although the drink is served chilled, shaking the ingredients with ice also slightly frosts the shaker, which improves dilution control and ensures a perfectly balanced cocktail.

FAQ about Pineapple Limoncello Spritz Recipe

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after preparation for maximum freshness. If you need to store it, keep the drink (without prosecco) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, it's recommended to avoid storing the spritz with prosecco, as the bubbles will dissipate and it may lose its effervescence.

Yes, you can substitute pineapple juice with other fruit juices like orange, mango, or even a citrus mix. This will alter the flavor profile, but the drink will still be refreshing. You may need to adjust the sweetness with more agave syrup, depending on the juice you choose.

To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the limoncello with a lemon-flavored soda or a non-alcoholic lemon liqueur. You can also skip the prosecco and top the drink with sparkling water or a flavored soda for a fizzy touch.

This cocktail is traditionally served in martini or champagne glasses, as they enhance the presentation and allow the drink's bubbles to rise beautifully. If you don’t have these types of glasses, any stemmed glassware would work well.

Yes, you can prepare the limoncello, basil, and agave syrup mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, just add pineapple juice, ice, shake, and top with prosecco for a quick and fresh cocktail.

Yes, agave syrup can be substituted with honey, simple syrup, or any other sweetener you prefer. If you choose honey, be sure to dissolve it well in the cocktail shaker for a smooth texture.

Yes, this cocktail can easily be scaled up for a large group. You can prepare the base (limoncello, basil, agave syrup, and pineapple juice) in a large pitcher or jug, and when serving, simply pour the mixture into glasses, top with prosecco, and garnish as needed.

Besides pineapple and lemon wedges, you can also garnish with fresh basil leaves, mint sprigs, or even a twist of lemon or lime peel for extra flavor and decoration.