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.
Angela says
I absolutely love this post! Fun things like these lemon curls can turn a good cocktail into a great cocktail! Your step by step pictures made it so easy!
Jere Cassidy says
These are awesome, and perfect for me to decorate my cakes and cupcakes. I’m so glad I have a lemon tree so I can try this out. Hoping I can do this with limes and oranges.
Phil says
Hey there,
This looks fantastic, I used to make my spirals differently but this is way easier, especially for doing a bunch of them at once.
My only questions for you are: How would you store them? How long can you store them? And can they be frozen in an attempt to have them keep longer?
Thank you again for sharing,
Phil
Toni Dash says
Hi Phil! All great questions. I store mine in a container of water in the refrigerator. I recommend changing the water every couple days. I would keep them up to 5 days. I have not tried freezing them however you should be able to. Place them in a freezer safe container vs a bag. Freeze up to 3 months.
Amy says
I use these to garnish lemon creme pie!!
Susan says
I don’t know that I’ll ever have use for this technique, but I think it’s wonderful, so I’m saving it for just in case…
Toni Dash says
These add a little whimsy to any drink Susan! Lemonade, iced tea….even a nice tall glass of water is more fun!
Melisasource says
WOW, I’ve never done a garnish before but this looks like a great way to try for the first time!
Rachelle says
I had no idea they were so easy to make! I’m going to have to try this at my next get together!
Rosey says
That is a great looking garnish. It’s unique too.
Joyce Brewer says
I’ve seen bartenders do this so easily. Great tutorial.
Nicole Escat says
Wow, looks really nice! I like doing garnish but I am not that good!