Infuse your holidays with the delightful, homemade charm of Cranberry Liqueur, a vibrant and flavorful drink perfect for gifting or savoring at festive gatherings. This simple yet elegant recipe combines tart fresh cranberries, smooth vodka, and a touch of sweetness from granulated sugar, with optional additions of vanilla bean and orange zest for an enhanced aromatic profile. The cranberries are gently simmered to release their natural juices, then steeped in vodka for at least four weeks to achieve an irresistibly rich and fruity flavor. Ideal for cocktails, dessert drizzles, or sipping straight, this easy-to-make cranberry liqueur is a beautiful way to celebrate the season. With a shelf life of up to a year, itβs a timeless addition to your home bar.
Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly and pat them dry.
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Cook until the cranberries soften and begin to burst, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
If using, add the vanilla bean (split lengthwise) and orange zest strip to the cranberry mixture. Stir gently to infuse additional flavors.
Transfer the cooled cranberry mixture to a clean, large glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
Pour the vodka over the cranberry mixture, ensuring the cranberries are fully submerged. Stir well to combine.
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, shaking the jar gently every few days to promote infusion.
After 4 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the solids from the liquid. For a clearer liqueur, strain a second time if needed.
Transfer the filtered liqueur to clean glass bottles or jars for storage. Discard the solids.
Store the cranberry liqueur in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Calories |
2667 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.9 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 20 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 242.2 g | 88% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 215.1 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 38 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 294 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.