Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash the lemons under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a zester or a fine grater, carefully remove the zest from the lemons. Ensure you only scrape off the outermost colored part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath.
2. Place the lemon zest into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the jar is large enough to accommodate the zest and still have space for the alcohol.
3. Pour vodka or another high-proof alcohol over the lemon zest, ensuring it covers the zest completely. The alcohol acts as a solvent, extracting the lemon flavor and essential oils.
4. Securely close the jar with the lid, ensuring it is tightly sealed. Give it a gentle shake to mix the lemon zest and alcohol.
5. Place the sealed jar in a cool, dark place, such as a kitchen cabinet or pantry. Allow the lemon zest to steep in the alcohol for at least 4 to 6 weeks. The longer the infusion time, the stronger the lemon flavor will be.
6. During the steeping period, give the jar a gentle shake every few days to help distribute the lemon flavor evenly.
7. After the steeping time is complete, strain the liquid to remove the lemon zest. You can use a fine-mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter for this step. Squeeze the zest gently to extract any remaining liquid.
8. Transfer the strained liquid into a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Label it with the date and contents for future reference.