Recipe for Cranberry Infused Vodka: Easy & Delicious Guide

Looking to add a festive twist to your home bar? Making cranberry infused vodka is the perfect way to capture the vibrant, tart flavors of fresh cranberries in a smooth, spirited base.

This delightful infusion brings a beautiful ruby hue and a refreshing taste that works wonderfully in cocktails or simply enjoyed chilled. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a cozy winter evening, or just want to experiment with homemade liqueurs, cranberry infused vodka is easy to make and impressively flavorful.

In just a few days, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a sophisticated, versatile spirit. Plus, the process is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal equipment.

Ready to elevate your vodka game? Let’s dive into this delicious cranberry infused vodka recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry infused vodka recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses fresh cranberries to impart a natural tartness and vibrant color that’s visually stunning and tastes incredible.

The infusion process is incredibly simple, requiring no special skills or equipment beyond what most home bartenders already have.

Secondly, this infusion is highly versatile. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or use it as a base for festive cocktails like cranberry martinis or spritzers.

It’s also a great homemade gift idea during the holiday season or for any special occasion.

Lastly, making your own infused vodka means you control the quality and flavor intensity. You can tweak the sweetness or add complementary spices to make it uniquely yours.

It’s a fun, rewarding project that results in a deliciously aromatic spirit.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries (rinsed and dried)
• 750 ml vodka (choose a quality, neutral vodka)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for warmth)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional, adds spice complexity)

Equipment

• Large glass jar or bottle with airtight lid (to infuse vodka)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (to strain the vodka)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or stirrer
• Funnel (optional, for bottling)
• Bottle or jar for storing infused vodka

Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Discard any bruised or damaged berries.
2. Combine ingredients: Place the cranberries in your large glass jar. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract (if using), and cinnamon stick.
3. Add vodka: Pour the entire 750 ml bottle of vodka over the cranberries and other ingredients, making sure the fruit is fully submerged.
4. Seal and shake: Secure the lid tightly and give the jar a gentle shake to mix the sugar and vodka.
5. Infuse: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 5 to 7 days. Shake the jar once a day to help the sugar dissolve and flavors meld.
6. Strain the vodka: After infusion, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the cranberries, cinnamon stick, and sediment. Press gently on the fruit to extract maximum flavor.
7. Transfer and store: Pour the filtered cranberry infused vodka into a clean bottle or jar using a funnel if needed. Seal tightly and refrigerate or store at room temperature.
8. Serve and enjoy: Your cranberry infused vodka is now ready to be savored in cocktails or on its own!

Tips & Variations

“For a sweeter infusion, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup or add a splash of simple syrup after straining.”

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors like a few strips of orange zest, star anise, or a splash of fresh lime juice to complement the tart cranberries. If you prefer a stronger spice note, try adding a few cloves during the infusion.

For a quicker infusion, you can slightly crush the cranberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release more juice immediately. However, this may result in a cloudier vodka that requires more thorough straining.

If you want to make this a sugar-free infusion, substitute sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol, adjusting amounts to taste.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on sugar quantity and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry infused vodka is a versatile spirit that shines in many delightful ways. Try it chilled over ice for a refreshing sip.

It pairs beautifully with tonic water and a squeeze of lime for a crisp cocktail.

For festive occasions, use it as the base in a cranberry martini or add sparkling wine and a splash of orange liqueur for a celebratory spritzer. Garnish with fresh cranberries or a twist of citrus peel to enhance the presentation.

It also works wonderfully in punches, especially alongside complementary fruits like pomegranate or apple. To explore more creative vegan recipes for entertaining, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Making your own cranberry infused vodka is a simple yet impressive way to bring a burst of seasonal flavor into your home bar. The tart cranberries beautifully balance the smoothness of vodka, creating a spirit that’s perfect for both casual sipping and festive cocktails.

This recipe requires minimal ingredients and equipment, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Plus, the infusion process is flexible—tailor the sweetness, spices, and infusion time to suit your palate.

Whether gifting to friends or enhancing your own cocktail repertoire, cranberry infused vodka is a delicious homemade treat.

Don’t forget to experiment with other homemade infusions or explore more innovative recipes like our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for your next culinary adventure. Cheers to your delicious infusion journey!

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