Save This homemade Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur is a luxurious, deep-purple spirit that captures the intense essence of ripe summer berries. By infusing fresh or frozen blackcurrants with quality vodka and a touch of sweetness, you create a sophisticated drink with a complex, aromatic profile that commercial alternatives simply can't match.
Pin it The beauty of this recipe lies in the slow extraction of flavor. Over several weeks, the vodka draws out the juices and oils from the currants, resulting in a smooth, fruit-forward liqueur that is as beautiful to look at as it is to drink.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 500 g fresh or frozen blackcurrants, stems removed
- Spirits: 750 ml vodka (quality neutral vodka preferred)
- Sweetener: 250–350 g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Wash the blackcurrants thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Pat dry if fresh.
- Step 2
- Place the blackcurrants in a large sterilized jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Step 3
- Add the sugar over the berries, then pour in the vodka to cover completely.
- Step 4
- Seal the jar tightly and shake gently to mix.
- Step 5
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place. Shake gently every 2–3 days to help dissolve the sugar.
- Step 6
- Infuse for 3–6 weeks, tasting after 3 weeks. When the flavor is to your liking, strain the liqueur through a fine sieve or muslin into a clean bottle.
- Step 7
- Discard the spent berries or reserve them for baking. Seal the bottled liqueur and store in a cool, dark place. For best flavor, let mature for an additional 2–4 weeks before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a high-quality result, use a large sterilized glass jar for the infusion process. A fine sieve or muslin cloth is essential for removing all fruit particles, while a funnel can help you transfer the finished liqueur into decorative bottles without any mess.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Personalize your liqueur by adjusting the sugar; use 250g for a tart, punchy spirit or up to 350g for a sweeter, dessert-style liqueur. For an aromatic twist, try adding a strip of lemon zest or a split vanilla bean into the jar during the steeping period.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this liqueur chilled as a digestif, or mix it into cocktails for a fruity boost. Don't throw away the strained berries; they are delicious when incorporated into cake batters or cooked down into a boozy blackcurrant jam.
Pin it Whether given as a thoughtful handmade gift or enjoyed at home, this Blackcurrant Vodka Liqueur brings a touch of artisanal elegance to your bar cart and a burst of summer flavor to every glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does blackcurrant vodka need to infuse?
The infusion process takes 3–6 weeks for optimal flavor development. Taste after 3 weeks and continue infusing until the blackcurrant flavor reaches your preferred intensity. The liqueur also benefits from an additional 2–4 weeks of maturation after straining.
- → Can I use frozen blackcurrants instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blackcurrants work perfectly well. Thaw them slightly and pat dry before adding to the jar. The freezing process actually breaks down cell walls, which can help release more flavor during infusion.
- → How should I store the finished liqueur?
Store your strained blackcurrant vodka in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. A cupboard or pantry works well. Properly sealed, the liqueur will keep for 12–18 months without losing quality.
- → What's the best way to serve blackcurrant vodka liqueur?
Chill the bottle and serve neat as a digestif after meals. It also shines in cocktails—try with tonic water, sparkling wine, or lemonade. Pour over vanilla ice cream or use to flavor desserts like panna cotta or cheesecake.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely. Start with the lower amount of sugar (250g) for a tart, berry-forward drink. If you prefer sweeter liqueur, increase to 350g. You can also add simple syrup after straining if you'd like to adjust the final sweetness.
- → What type of vodka works best?
A quality neutral vodka works best as it allows the blackcurrant flavor to shine without competing notes. You don't need expensive premium vodka, but avoid bottom-shelf options that may have harsh flavors.