Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka

Captured in a bottle, this Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is the ultimate expression of seasonal fruit meeting warming aromatics. By infusing tart blackcurrants with a blend of star anise, cloves, and cinnamon, you create a deeply pigmented spirit that is as beautiful to look at as it is to drink. Whether you are looking for a unique addition to your home bar or a thoughtful handmade gift, this liqueur offers a sophisticated flavor profile that only gets better with time.

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The process of making your own liqueur is remarkably simple, requiring just a few minutes of active preparation followed by the patient work of infusion. As the vodka sits with the crushed berries and spices, it extracts their vibrant color and complex oils, resulting in a smooth, ruby-red spirit. The addition of black peppercorns and lemon zest provides a subtle backbone of heat and brightness that balances the natural sweetness of the sugar and fruit.

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)

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

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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

To ensure your liqueur stays fresh, always use a large sterilized jar for the infusion process and clean, sterilized bottles for the final storage. Don't worry if the sugar doesn't dissolve immediately; the regular shaking over the two-to-four-week period will ensure it eventually incorporates. If you want a perfectly clear liqueur, avoid pressing down on the fruit solids when straining through your muslin cloth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While blackcurrants are the star here, you can experiment by adding a split vanilla pod or a few bruised cardamom pods for extra aromatic layers. The sweetness is also highly adjustable; if you prefer a drier spirit, start with 200g of sugar and add more to taste after the infusion process is complete but before the final bottling.

Serviervorschläge

This liqueur is a delightful after-dinner drink when served neat or over a single large cube of ice. It also pairs wonderfully with desserts; try drizzling it over a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream or using it as a base for a sparkling cocktail by adding a splash to a glass of chilled Prosecco or Champagne.

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Creating your own Homemade Spiced Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is a rewarding project that results in a unique, professional-quality spirit. Once you have mastered the basic infusion, you will find yourself looking for new ways to serve this vibrant, aromatic drink throughout the year.

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Recipe Q&A

→ How long does it take to infuse blackcurrant vodka?

The infusion process takes 2–4 weeks for optimal flavor development. During this time, store the jar in a cool, dark place and shake gently every few days to help dissolve sugar and distribute flavors evenly.

→ Can I use frozen blackcurrants instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blackcurrants work perfectly well in this infusion. Thaw them slightly and crush before adding to the jar. Frozen berries may release juices more quickly, potentially shortening infusion time by a few days.

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

Serve chilled straight over ice as a sipping liqueur, or mix into cocktails. It pairs beautifully with tonic water, champagne, or ginger beer. Also delicious drizzled over vanilla ice cream or panna cotta for a boozy dessert topping.

→ How should I store the finished liqueur?

Store in sterilized, sealed bottles in a cool, dark place or refrigerator. Properly stored, the liqueur will keep for 12–18 months. Refrigeration after opening helps maintain freshness and flavor intensity.

→ Can I adjust the spice levels in this infusion?

Absolutely. Reduce or increase spices to suit your taste. For a lighter spice profile, use half the cinnamon and omit black peppercorns. For extra warmth, add a split vanilla pod, cardamom pods, or a small piece of fresh ginger.

→ Is this liqueur suitable for vegans?

Yes, this spiced blackcurrant vodka is naturally vegan as it contains only fruit, sugar, vodka, and spices. Always verify your vodka brand is vegan-friendly, though most plain vodkas are suitable for vegans.