Are you looking to elevate your mixology game or simply create a unique homemade gift? Look no further than homemade strawberry vodka! This delightful infusion is not only easy to make but also bursting with fresh, fruity flavor. Whether you want to enjoy it in cocktails or sip it on its own, homemade strawberry vodka is a delicious addition to your beverage repertoire. Let’s dive into the how-to!
Strawberry vodka is a fun and refreshing twist on traditional vodka. It captures the essence of summer, bringing with it the sweet and tart flavors of strawberries. Making it at home allows you to control the sweetness and pair it perfectly with your favorite mixers. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up fresh strawberries, especially when they are in season.
Here are some tasty ways to utilize your infusion:
1. **Strawberry Vodka Lemonade**: Mix your strawberry vodka with lemonade over ice for a refreshing summer drink.
2. **Cocktails**: Shake up classic cocktails like a strawberry vodka martini or use it in place of regular vodka in your favorite cocktails for a fruity twist.
3. **Sipping**: You can also enjoy it straight over ice or in a spritzer with soda and a splash of tonic.
Homemade Strawberry Vodka
Equipment
- – A clean glass jar or bottle with a tight seal- A strainer or cheesecloth- A funnel (if bottling)
Ingredients
- 1 Bottle of vodka (750ml; choose a quality vodka for the best results)
- 2 cups Fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup Pure cane sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
Instructions
- Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice them into halves or quarters to help release their juices more effectively.
- In a clean glass jar or bottle, combine the sliced strawberries with the sugar. Gently muddle them with a spoon to help release some of the juices. Then, pour in the vodka, ensuring that the strawberries are completely submerged.
- Seal the jar or bottle tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix everything together. Store the infusion in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Allow the mixture to steep for at least 3-5 days, shaking it gently every day. The longer you let it sit, the more pronounced the strawberry flavor will become—up to two weeks for an intense infusion!
- Once you’re satisfied with the infusion, it’s time to strain it. Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pour the vodka through to separate the liquid from the solids. Make sure to press gently on the strawberries to extract as much flavor as possible.
- Using a funnel, transfer the strained vodka into a clean bottle or jars for storage. If desired, you can add a couple of whole strawberries to the bottle for a decorative touch. Seal it tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.