Blended from strawberries, sugar, and spirit, Fragolino Liqueur brings a fresh, fruity aroma and smooth taste that fit perfectly into spring menus and afternoon desserts.
I’m sharing one of my favourite homemade liqueurs made with fresh strawberries.
The name Fragolino comes from the Italian word fragola, meaning strawberry, and it’s a traditional recipe often prepared when the fruit is in season.
I’ve always loved preparing Italian liqueurs, and Fragolino has become one of my staples alongside MY Homemade Limoncello and Crema di Limoncello.
After returning from Europe, where strawberries were unbelievably sweet, I couldn’t resist turning some into this fragrant liqueur. Its soft pink colour looks beautiful on the shelf, and the sweetness makes it perfect to share after a meal.
Give it about 60 days to rest, and it will reward you with a balanced, fruity flavour.
What I Love About This Strawberry Liqueur
- Matches well with panna cotta, cheesecake, or vanilla gelato for a smooth and balanced pairing.
- Combines fruity sweetness with a clean, refreshing finish that feels naturally balanced.
- Makes an inviting homemade gift for spring and summer celebrations.
Key Ingredients for Fragolino Liqueur
Strawberries
Ripe strawberries give the liqueur its fragrance, colour, and sweetness. Choose firm, bright fruit free from blemishes to keep the infusion clear and fresh.
Alcohol
High-proof alcohol such as 95% spirit or 151-proof grain alcohol extracts the natural oils and flavour quickly. Vodka can be used for a milder version.
Sugar
Granulated sugar adds sweetness and body, creating a balanced syrup that rounds off the alcohol’s sharpness.
Find the complete list with measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Fragolino Liqueur
Step 1: Place the strawberries in a large glass jar and pour in the alcohol. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a dark place for 30 days.
Step 2: After 30 days, prepare a syrup by combining the water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then let the syrup cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Strain the strawberry-infused alcohol, then mix it with the cooled syrup. Transfer the mixture to a clean jar and leave it to rest in a dark place for another 30 days.
Step 4: After the second resting period, strain the liqueur again and pour it into bottles.
Step 5: Serve very cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as long as they’re unsweetened and high-quality. Thaw fully, drain well, and pat dry before adding to the alcohol to keep the flavour clean and bright.
Stored in sterilised glass bottles in a cool, dark cupboard, it keeps its pink colour and flavour for 12 months unopened. Once opened, refrigerate and finish within 3 months for the best taste and aroma.
Yes, but sugar balances the alcohol and helps preserve the liqueur. Reduce by 100–150 g – ½ to ¾ cup if you prefer a lighter sweetness, but avoid cutting too much or it may taste harsh.
Use 95% alcohol or 151-proof spirit for a true Italian flavour and clear infusion. Vodka gives a softer result with gentle warmth, ideal for those who prefer a milder drink.
Serve Fragolino with creamy desserts like panna cotta, cheesecake, or vanilla gelato. Garnish each glass with a fresh strawberry slice or a thin twist of lemon peel for a simple finishing touch.
Extra Help from the Kitchen
Taste Before Bottling – Sample a small spoonful before sealing the bottles to assess sweetness and strength. If the alcohol feels too sharp, stir in a little extra cooled syrup to round the flavour.
Filter Twice for Clarity – Straining through fine muslin once removes solids, but a second filtration after resting produces a clearer, jewel-like finish. Patience here improves both appearance and mouthfeel.
Label and Date the Bottles – Recording the preparation and bottling dates helps you track the resting periods accurately, especially if you make several infusions at once.
Dry the Strawberries Thoroughly – Any water left on the fruit can dilute the alcohol and affect the clarity of the liqueur. Pat each piece dry before starting the infusion to maintain a bright colour and clean flavour.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store the liqueur in clean, sterilised glass bottles with tightly sealed lids. Keep unopened bottles in a cool, dark cupboard for up to 12 months to preserve both colour and aroma. Once opened, refrigerate and enjoy within 3 months for the best flavour and freshness.
Cooling the liquid before bottling helps prevent condensation inside the bottles, which maintains clarity and prevents dilution. Always keep the bottles away from direct sunlight or heat sources to protect the liqueur’s delicate pink hue and balanced taste.
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Fragolino Liqueur Recipe
Blended from strawberries, sugar, and spirit, Fragolino Liqueur brings a fresh, fruity aroma and smooth taste that fit perfectly into spring menus and afternoon desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 kg – 2.2 lbs strawberries
- 1 L – 4 cups alcohol 95% OR 151-proof grain alcohol, OR 1¼ L – 5 cups vodka
- 1 L – 4 cups water
- 650 g – 3¼ cups granulated sugar
Instructions
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Place the strawberries in a large glass jar and pour in the alcohol. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a dark place for 30 days.
-
After 30 days, prepare a syrup by combining the water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then let the syrup cool to room temperature.
-
Strain the strawberry-infused alcohol, then mix it with the cooled syrup. Transfer the mixture to a clean jar and leave it to rest in a dark place for another 30 days.
-
After the second resting period, strain the liqueur again and pour it into bottles.
-
Serve very cold.
Homemade liquor . Perfect for a holiday. Manu, I will attempt this weekend . It’s Memorial day here in the States, and I always like to give my guests something of s surprise
mick
https://www.coolonsale.com/wantlets