Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur

Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is a rich, aromatic spirit featuring deep blackcurrant flavors infused with warm spices and smooth vodka. This delightful beverage is easy to prepare and makes a wonderful homemade spirit for sipping or gifting. With just 15 minutes of hands-on prep time, you can create a beautiful deep purple liqueur that captures the essence of the fruit and spice.

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While the infusion takes two to four weeks, the wait is well worth it. The vodka extracts the vibrant color and tart juices from the berries, while the blend of cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and peppercorns adds a warming complexity that develops over time. This slow process results in a sophisticated spirit that is far superior to many commercial alternatives.

Ingredients

• Fruit & Alcohol
• 500 g fresh or frozen blackcurrants
• 750 ml good-quality vodka
• Sweetener
• 250 g granulated sugar
• Spices
• 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

Ensure you use a large sterilized jar for the infusion process. This recipe is gluten-free if using certified gluten-free vodka; however, always check your spices for potential allergen traces to ensure the safety of your guests.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adjust the sweetness to your personal taste by adding more or less granulated sugar. For additional depth, consider adding a split vanilla pod or a few cardamom pods to the spice blend during the maceration phase.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this spiced liqueur chilled or over ice as a sophisticated after-dinner drink. It also works beautifully in cocktails or drizzled over desserts like vanilla ice cream. Each 25 ml serving contains approximately 65 calories.

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Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is a rewarding project that results in a unique, handcrafted spirit. Whether enjoyed at home or shared as a gift, its deep color and aromatic profile make it a standout addition to any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does blackcurrant vodka need to infuse?

Allow 2–4 weeks for full infusion in a cool, dark place. Shake every few days to help sugar dissolve and flavors meld. For best results, let it mature another week after straining before serving.

→ Can I use frozen blackcurrants instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blackcurrants work perfectly and may actually release juices more readily when crushed. Thaw slightly before mashing to help break down the fruit fibers.

→ What's the best way to serve spiced blackcurrant vodka?

Serve chilled over ice as an after-dinner digestif, mix into cocktails, or drizzle over vanilla ice cream and panna cotta. The warm spice notes pair beautifully with cream-based desserts.

→ How should I store the finished liqueur?

Keep in sterilized, sealed bottles in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. Properly stored, it will keep for 6–12 months. Refrigeration helps maintain vibrant color and fresh flavor.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely. Taste after the initial infusion period. If too sweet, add more vodka. If not sweet enough, dissolve additional sugar in a small amount of warm water and stir into the strained liqueur.