Save Creating a Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is a wonderful way to preserve the intense, tart flavor of blackcurrants in a sophisticated spirit. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, aromatic liqueur with a stunning deep purple hue, perfect for slow sipping or gifting to friends and family.
Save The magic of this liqueur happens during the 2 to 4 weeks of infusion. As the vodka sits with the crushed berries and spices, it extracts their vibrant pigments and complex essential oils, resulting in a smooth, multi-layered spirit that tastes far better than any commercial alternative.
Ingredients
- 500 g fresh or frozen blackcurrants
- 750 ml good-quality vodka
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 5 black peppercorns
- Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon (in strips)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Rinse the blackcurrants and pat dry. Slightly crush them with a potato masher or fork to release juices.
- Step 2
- Place the blackcurrants in a large sterilized jar (at least 1.5-liter capacity).
- Step 3
- Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, black peppercorns, and lemon zest.
- Step 4
- Pour in the sugar, followed by the vodka.
- Step 5
- Seal the jar tightly and shake gently to dissolve some sugar.
- Step 6
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks, shaking gently every few days to help the flavors infuse and sugar dissolve.
- Step 7
- After infusion, strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into a clean jug. Discard the solids.
- Step 8
- Decant the liqueur into sterilized bottles, seal, and label.
- Step 9
- For best flavor, allow the liqueur to mature for at least another week before drinking. Serve chilled or over ice.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a properly sterilized jar is essential for a clean infusion. Ensure you use a fine sieve or muslin cloth when straining to achieve a clear, sediment-free liqueur. If you find the sugar is not dissolving, give the jar a more vigorous shake every couple of days during the first week.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily tailor this recipe by adjusting the amount of sugar to suit your palate. For a different flavor profile, try adding a split vanilla pod or a few bruised cardamom pods. For those with dietary restrictions, ensure your vodka is certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
This versatile liqueur is delicious served neat as an after-dinner drink or poured over clear ice cubes. It also works beautifully in cocktails, mixed with sparkling wine for a fruity spritz, or drizzled generously over vanilla bean ice cream and other fruit-based desserts.
Save Enjoy your Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur responsibly. Whether you're sipping it on a cold evening or sharing it with loved ones, the deep fruit flavors and warm spices are sure to impress.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long does blackcurrant vodka need to infuse?
Allow 2–4 weeks for full infusion. Shake the jar gently every few days to dissolve sugar and distribute flavors evenly. Longer infusion creates deeper, more complex notes.
- → Can I use frozen blackcurrants?
Yes, frozen blackcurrants work beautifully. Thaw slightly and crush to release juices before combining with vodka and spices. They're often juicier than fresh.
- → What's the best way to serve spiced blackcurrant liqueur?
Serve chilled over ice for sipping, mix into cocktails like Martinis or Champagne spritzes, or drizzle over vanilla ice cream and chocolate desserts for a boozy finish.
- → How should I store the finished liqueur?
Keep in sterilized glass bottles sealed tightly. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. Properly stored, it maintains quality for 6–12 months.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely. Taste after straining and add simple syrup if desired. For less sweetness, reduce initial sugar to 175–200g—the fruit provides natural sweetness too.