Summer is finally here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing infused liquor? Infused liquors are a great way to add unique flavors to your favorite cocktails without having to get creative with mixers or syrups. From fruity twists on classic spirits to herbal and spicy infusions, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet and sassy drink to sip on the porch or a bold and adventurous concoction to impress your friends, these infused liquors are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and make this summer one to remember with these refreshing recipes.
Strawberry Basil Vodka Infusion
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on traditional vodka infusion. This sweet and savory blend of strawberries and basil will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 liter vodka (at least 80 proof)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar or container with a lid, combine the sliced strawberries and fresh basil leaves.
2. Pour in the vodka, making sure that all the ingredients are fully submerged.
3. Stir gently to combine, then seal the jar tightly.
4. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking the jar every few days to help the flavors meld.
5. After 2 weeks, strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
6. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
Cooking Time: At least 2 weeks for infusion
Spiced Orange Bourbon
This Spiced Orange Bourbon recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon, orange zest, and warming spices to create a cozy winter cocktail perfect for cold nights by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon, orange juice, simple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None required – just mix and serve!
Lavender Lemon Gin
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing recipe that combines the floral charm of lavender with the brightness of lemon and the smoothness of gin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
Lavender Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add lavender buds. Let steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and discarding lavender.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, lavender syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of lemon.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including steeping time)
Pineapple Coconut Rum
A refreshing and tropical cocktail that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz light rum
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Pineapple wedges and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the light rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for a subtle tartness.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blackberry Mint Whiskey
This sweet and tangy whiskey cocktail combines the flavors of blackberries, mint, and bourbon to create a unique and refreshing drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz blackberry puree
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, blackberry puree, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add fresh mint leaves to the shaker and muddle gently to release oils and flavor.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Vanilla Cinnamon Tequila
Elevate your tequila game with this unique and flavorful cocktail that combines the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla. Perfect for those who want to add some excitement to their drink repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1/2 oz vanilla-flavored syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 oz cinnamon-infused simple syrup (see below)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Cinnamon-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
2. Add cinnamon sticks and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain syrup into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
To Make the Cocktail:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add tequila, vanilla-flavored syrup, and cinnamon-infused simple syrup.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Peach Ginger Bourbon
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of peaches with the warmth of ginger and bourbon, perfect for a summer evening. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be sipping on this delightful drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz fresh peach puree
– 1/4 oz fresh ginger liqueur
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– Ice
– Fresh peach slices and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, peach puree, ginger liqueur, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
3. Shake gently for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with fresh peach slices and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Blueberry Thyme Vodka
Create a unique and refreshing vodka infusion by combining the natural sweetness of blueberries with the subtle earthiness of thyme. Perfect for cocktails or as a base for homemade liqueurs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup (60g) dried thyme leaves
– 1 bottle (750ml) vodka (at least 35% ABV)
– Optional: simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Combine blueberries and thyme in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Pour the vodka over the fruit mixture, making sure all berries are covered.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking the jar every few days to distribute the flavors.
5. Strain the vodka through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
6. If desired, add simple syrup to taste and stir well.
Cooking Time: None
Cucumber Lime Gin
This refreshing cocktail combines the crispness of cucumber with the brightness of lime and a hint of gin. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup (60 g) thinly sliced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (optional)
– Club soda
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices with the gin and lime juice until well combined.
2. Add the simple syrup (if using) and fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cherry Almond Brandy
Transform the flavors of cherry and almond into a rich and velvety brandy perfect for special occasions or as a gift. This recipe requires patience, but the end result is well worth the wait.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of brandy (750ml)
– 1 cup of cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup of almonds
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine cherries and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
2. In a separate pan, toast the almonds over low heat until fragrant. Allow them to cool completely.
3. Combine brandy, cherry mixture, and toasted almonds in a large glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Add sliced lemon to the mixture for added flavor and aroma.
5. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months to allow the flavors to mature.
6. Strain the brandy through cheesecloth or a coffee filter before serving.
Cooking Time: At least 6 months (plus additional time for the flavors to meld)
Apple Pie Moonshine
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie in a unique and delicious moonshine recipe. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for sipping on a chilly fall evening or sharing with friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon corn whiskey
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cinnamon syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Combine the corn whiskey, apple cider, and sugar in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add the cinnamon syrup, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir well to combine.
3. Let the mixture steep for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the moonshine through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: None (steeping time: 24 hours)
Raspberry Rosemary Rum
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors with this unique recipe that combines the tartness of raspberries, the earthiness of rosemary, and the smoothness of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz fresh raspberry puree
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, muddled (chopped)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the dark rum, raspberry puree, simple syrup, and lime juice.
3. Muddle the rosemary sprig into the mixture.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass filled with ice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink recipe.
Enjoy your Raspberry Rosemary Rum cocktail!
Honey Chamomile Whiskey
This unique whiskey infusion combines the soothing qualities of chamomile with the warmth of honey, creating a delightful sipping experience. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or as a special treat to share with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of your favorite whiskey (at least 80 proof)
– 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers
– 1 tablespoon of pure honey
– Water
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar, combine the whiskey and dried chamomile flowers.
2. Stir gently to ensure the chamomile is fully submerged in the whiskey.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and let it steep at room temperature for 2-3 days or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
4. After the infusion period, strain the whiskey through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Add the honey to the whiskey and stir until dissolved.
6. Store the Honey Chamomile Whiskey in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 2-3 days (or up to 5 days)
Enjoy your soothing, sweet, and sippable Honey Chamomile Whiskey!
Pear Cardamom Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique pear cardamom vodka recipe, perfect for fall and winter seasons. This flavorful infusion combines the sweetness of pears with the warm spices of cardamom, creating a delicious base for a variety of cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of vodka (at least 80% ABV)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 10-12 whole green cardamom pods
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the sliced pears and green cardamom pods.
2. Pour the vodka over the pear-cardamom mixture, making sure that all the ingredients are fully submerged.
3. Add the granulated sugar and stir gently to dissolve.
4. Seal the jar and let it infuse for at least 48 hours in a cool, dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
6. Store the infused vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 2 days
Grapefruit Jalapeño Tequila
This refreshing cocktail combines the tanginess of grapefruit with the spicy kick of jalapeño, all wrapped up in a tequila package. Perfect for sipping on a warm day or as a unique twist on a classic margarita.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1/2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/4 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see below)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Jalapeño Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1-2 jalapeños, sliced thin
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, and jalapeño simple syrup.
3. Fill shaker with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain mixture into prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are mixed together)
Cranberry Clove Bourbon
As the weather cools down, warm up with a glass of rich and spicy Cranberry Clove Bourbon. This seasonal drink combines the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of cloves and the smoothness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and cranberry sauce to the shaker.
3. Add ground cloves and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Cranberry Clove Bourbon and warm up this winter season!
Mango Habanero Rum
Experience the sweet and spicy combination of mango and habanero peppers infused into a delicious rum cocktail. This recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique gift for friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the dark rum, mango puree, and simple syrup.
2. Add the chopped habanero peppers to the mixture and stir well.
3. Seal the jar and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. If desired, add the orange liqueur and stir well.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Tips:
– Adjust the level of spiciness to your taste by using more or fewer habanero peppers.
– Use this rum in cocktails, such as a Mango Habanero Mule or Mojito, or enjoy it on its own as a sipping spirit.
Lemon Verbena Gin
Add a touch of sunshine to your gin with this refreshing recipe that combines the sweet and citrusy flavor of lemon verbena with the crispness of juniper. Perfect for warm weather sipping or as a unique addition to your cocktail repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) fresh lemon verbena leaves
– 2 cups (400ml) gin
– 1/4 cup (60ml) sugar syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine lemon verbena leaves and gin. Cover and let steep for at least 2 weeks in the refrigerator, shaking daily.
2. After 2 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard solids.
3. Add sugar syrup and simple syrup to the infused gin. Stir until dissolved.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 2 weeks (steeping) + 1 minute (straining)
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing infused liquor recipes perfect for summer! From sweet and fruity to tangy and spicy, there’s something for everyone. Infuse your favorite spirits with flavors like strawberry basil vodka, spiced orange bourbon, lavender lemon gin, and more. Impress your friends with unique cocktails or enjoy a glass on its own. Whether you’re looking for a classic twist or a bold new flavor, these recipes will keep your summer sipping game strong.
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