Limoncello Sgroppino: A Lemon Sorbet and Prosecco Cocktail

Is it a cocktail? A dessert? An Italian twist on a palate cleanser? Sgroppino is a bit of all three.

Originating from the Veneto region, this refreshing drink blends lemon sorbet, vodka, and Prosecco.

Some versions, like the one I’m sharing here, also include limoncello to boost the citrus notes.

Everything is whisked together to create a light, almost frothy texture. Typically served at the end of a meal, sgroppino is both thirst-quenching and perfect for cleansing the palate.

I discovered my very first sgroppino during a trip to the Prosecco region. After a wine tasting at Riva dei Frati — which produces an excellent Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore — we went for lunch at Osteria al Cacciatore, a family-run restaurant in Cornuda owned by the same people.

It was a Sunday, a true feast day. Like many traditional osterie in the area, they follow the classic Venetian feast format: antipasti of cured meats, followed by risotto and fresh pasta, and then wood-fired grilled meats served in the style of spiedo alla veneta.

The restaurant even has its own rotating grill, designed and built by the owner — quite a show in itself.

After this incredibly generous meal, a wonderful surprise arrived at the table: a large pitcher of sgroppino. Creamy, citrusy, and perfectly chilled… It was absolute bliss!

Naturally, we asked for the recipe on the spot — and I’m sharing it with you here.

Whipped or not…

While the traditional sgroppino is served whipped, I have a soft spot for presenting it in a more straightforward way, similar to a trou normand, with the sorbet still frozen.

It gives a different texture and a refreshing burst in the mouth.

You can serve it as a dessert or between courses in a rich meal to cleanse the palate and add a light, refreshing pause.

And if you prefer a lighter version, feel free to skip the vodka.

Ingredients for Sgroppino

Here’s what you need to make a refreshing sgroppino — perfect after a meal or to surprise your guests with a touch of Italy:

Lemon sorbet: Tart and refreshing, it brings the frothy texture and bright flavor to the drink. For best results, nothing beats a good homemade sorbet. I haven’t found anything in stores that matches the flavor and texture. Here’s my homemade lemon sorbet recipe if you’d like to try it!

Vodka: Any neutral vodka will do. No need for a premium bottle, since the sorbet’s flavor will dominate.

Limoncello: This Italian lemon liqueur adds a bright, sweet touch to the sgroppino and enhances the citrus flavors.

Prosecco: The bubbly component of the cocktail. Choose a brut Prosecco to avoid an overly sweet result.

Garnishes (optional): Add a nice finishing touch with lemon zest or a fresh mint leaf for extra color and freshness.

How to Make a Sgroppino

There are two ways to serve sgroppino. For a simplified (and my favorite) version, just place a scoop of sorbet in a small bowl or glass, drizzle with Prosecco and a splash of limoncello if you like.

For the classic version, skip the shaker — this cocktail is made with a whisk! The frothy texture comes from emulsifying the sorbet with the alcohol.

• Whisk: In a small bowl, whisk together the vodka, limoncello, and two scoops of lemon sorbet until smooth and lightly frothy.
• Serve: Pour the mixture into coupes or wine glasses, then top with a splash of chilled Prosecco.
• Garnish: Add a lemon zest or a mint leaf, and serve immediately.