Ever wonder how bartenders make those cool Lemon Spirals for cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks? Well I asked and have the scoop! Super easy to make at home!
A fun garnish is a great way to dress up a cocktail or non-alcoholic drink. Lemon curls are a classic.
A bartender gave me his method to make this lemon garnish and I think you’ll love it too.
It can be used to make lemon curls, lime curls or orange curls too.
How to make Lemon Curls
Years ago I was having lunch at the now defunct Kevin Taylor Prima Ristorante in Denver. I chatted with the bartender over a pomegranate martini and asked how he made the whimsical lemon spiral hanging off the side of the glass.
He let me in on a secret I’ve loved knowing ever since: how to make Lemon Spirals.
Having been served cocktails with the whimsical swirls before (the ones that look like tiny citrus corkscrew pig’s tails), I was always curious how they were made.
When I asked the bartender he showed me step by step how to do it.
It’s quite easy and was something I would never have figured out on my own.
No fancy equipment or channel knife is needed.
Using Lemon Twists
Lemon Spirals (also called lemon curls or lemon twists) can be used in any sort of drink, alcoholic or otherwise.
I try to choose larger lemons to yield a longer spiral though any size lemon will work.
The spirals may be added to the drink, trellised over the edge of the glass or both. They are great for decorating baked goods too.
However you use them they make the drink more eye-catching and fun!
How to make Lime Twists or Orange Twists
This easy method can be used for any type of citrus fruits. Limes and oranges make great curls too.
Storing Lemon Curls
Store lemon twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
More recipes to try!
Recipe
How to Make Lemon Curls (drink garnish)
Ingredients
- Lemons
Supplies
- sharp knife
- toothpicks
- bowl or jar
Instructions
- Select unblemished lemons.
- Slice the ends off a lemon to create a flat surface.
- Make one slice down the length of the lemon. Gently separate the peel from the inner fruit of the lemon.
- Gently roll the peel lengthwise to form a tight spiral (leave no space between the layers). Insert 2 toothpicks on either end to secure the lemon peel.
- Place in water in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Remove from the water and remove the toothpicks. Slice into 1/8-1/4 inch slices. Uncoil and place into a drink or hand off the side of a glass.
Notes
Nutrition
Originally published December 2010.
Brianne says
Oh this is so cool. I am going to make these for my moms night out next week!
Janell Poulette says
This is so cute and not something I would have ever thought to do. I will definitely be making these for my next get-together, or even just for my glass of iced tea at dinner. Thanks for sharing!
Annemarie LeBlanc says
I always thought there was some kind of special kitchen gadget to make those spirals! Thanks for sharing the information.
Amanda Love says
That’s pretty awesome! I’ve never tried doing this before, I had no idea it was this easy. Thanks for the awesome tip and the instructions!
Don Cresswell says
I use a kitchen/bar tool called a “Channel Knife” it gives you a “twist” but without the bitter pith. To make a spiral from your twist, simply wrap it around your cocktail stirrer like a candy cane or barber pole.
Toni Dash says
Thanks for the tip Don. I have not noticed any flavor from the pitch of the spirals when adding these to drinks. It was something I tested in the beginning not loving the taste of pith…imagine that!
Don Cresswell says
Theoretically it can be bitter but in retrospect I didn’t notice anything in my vodka or bourbon drinks when being served by a barkeep who hand cuts the peels. This clearly states that my taste buds are focusing on the finer things in life…LOL!
Toni Dash says
Ha, ha! Maybe that’s the ticket; serve them in strong drinks?
Lisa Favre says
I often see these on drinks at restaurants but never thought of doing it at home. Don’t know why! Definitely something I’ll start doing.
Pam says
I love the look of lemon spirals. They’re beautiful on cocktails or even on lemonade or tea.
Anjanette @MommaYoung says
How great! I have wondered this as well. I never would have thought to soak overnight. I’ve tried before on-the-fly and it didn’t quite work. Makes sense now! Thanks for the info! Now to make a cocktail….
Liz Mays says
Oh these are awesome. Great guide! I want to start adding these to some cocktails!
Marcie W. says
I have always wondered how lemon peels are shaped for garnish. I think I am far too heavy handed to pull these off, but am willing to bet my husband can make them no problem.