Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 20 decadent infused alcohol recipes! Infusing your favorite spirits with unique flavors and ingredients can add a whole new level of complexity and depth to your drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to try something new, we’ve got you covered. From sweet and fruity to spicy and savory, our list of infusions has something for everyone.
Start with a classic like Vanilla Bean Bourbon Infusion, then move on to some bolder options like Spicy Jalapeño Tequila or Citrus-Infused Vodka with Lemon and Lime. Or, try something entirely new with Lavender Honey Gin or Cinnamon Apple Whiskey. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got the perfect recipe to get you started.
Vanilla Bean Bourbon Infusion
Elevate your cocktail game with this simple yet elegant infusion recipe that combines the warm flavors of vanilla and bourbon. Perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or serving at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality vanilla beans
– 1 pint (475ml) good-quality bourbon whiskey
– Optional: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Split the vanilla beans lengthwise and place them in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Pour the bourbon over the vanilla beans, making sure they are completely covered.
3. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to the mixture for a slightly sweeter infusion.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place (such as a pantry or cupboard) for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. After 2 weeks, strain the bourbon through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the vanilla beans.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 14 days
– Straining and serving: 5 minutes
Use your infused bourbon as a base for cocktails, enjoy it on its own, or use it in baking recipes for added depth of flavor.
Spicy Jalapeño Tequila
Elevate your tequila game with this spicy twist that combines the bold flavors of jalapeños, lime juice, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for adventurous palates and those who love a little heat in their cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz agave syrup
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and chopped jalapeños.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail)
Enjoy your Spicy Jalapeño Tequila!
Citrus-Infused Vodka with Lemon and Lime
Elevate your cocktails with this refreshing citrus-infused vodka recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1.75 liters of vodka (at least 40% ABV)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 limes, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container with a lid, combine the vodka and sliced citrus fruits.
2. Add the sugar to the mixture and stir until it dissolves.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 7 days or up to 14 days, shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 7-14 days
Your citrus-infused vodka is now ready to use in your favorite cocktails! Enjoy.
Lavender Honey Gin
Create a unique and refreshing spirit with the sweet and floral flavors of lavender and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gin
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 2 tbsp dried lavender buds
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the gin and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the dried lavender buds to the mixture. Allow it to steep for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator, shaking the jar occasionally.
3. After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
4. Add the sliced lemon to the gin mixture and stir well. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve the Lavender Honey Gin over ice cubes in a glass. Garnish with a lemon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (infusion period)
Cinnamon Apple Whiskey
Warm up with this autumnal twist on classic whiskey, infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon and apple.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of your favorite whiskey (at least 80 proof)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cinnamon sticks (about 6 inches each)
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine whiskey, apple cider, water, and cinnamon sticks.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped apples to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the whiskey through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Yield: 1 bottle of Cinnamon Apple Whiskey (approximately 750ml)
Enjoy your warm and cozy Cinnamon Apple Whiskey as a drink, dessert topping, or use it in recipes like cakes and sauces.
Strawberry Basil Rum
Experience the sweet and savory combination of strawberries and basil in a refreshing rum cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the sliced strawberries with the fresh basil leaves using a wooden spoon or a muddler.
2. Add the dark rum and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Strawberry Basil Rum over ice in glasses. Garnish with a lime wedge and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prepare ahead of time)
Coconut and Pineapple Infused Rum
A tropical twist on traditional rum, this infused spirit combines the creamy richness of coconut with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum (at least 70% ABV)
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the dark rum, shredded coconut, and pineapple chunks.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour in the water, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
6. Store the infused rum in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 24 hours
Dark Chocolate Mint Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and refreshing Dark Chocolate Mint Vodka recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vodka (at least 100 proof)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
3. Let cool slightly, then whisk in the peppermint extract.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Add the vodka and stir well to combine.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is for mixing and chilling only.
Earl Grey Tea-Infused Gin
Elevate your home bar with this unique and aromatic Earl Grey tea-infused gin, perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for creative cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200 ml) high-proof vodka or grain spirit
– 4 Earl Grey tea bags
– 2 cups (400 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine the vodka and Earl Grey tea bags in a large glass container.
2. Add the water and stir to combine.
3. Let the mixture steep for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the solids.
5. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Slice the lemon and add it to the gin mixture.
7. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Blackberry Sage Brandy
Infuse the warmth of sage and the sweetness of blackberries into a rich brandy perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup dried sage leaves
– 2 cups brandy (80-100 proof)
– 1 cup water
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine blackberries and dried sage in a clean glass jar with a lid.
2. Pour in the brandy, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
3. Add water to fill the jar, then seal it tightly.
4. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 6 weeks, shaking the jar every few days.
5. After infusion, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
6. If desired, sweeten the brandy with simple syrup to taste.
Cooking Time: 6 weeks (infusion time), plus additional time for straining and storage.
Spiced Orange Infused Bourbon
Elevate your bourbon game with this aromatic infused spirit that combines the warmth of spices with the brightness of orange.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of good quality bourbon (750ml)
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the infusion mixture. In a large glass jar or container, combine the sliced oranges, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Pour the bourbon over the infusion mixture, making sure that all the ingredients are completely submerged.
3. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. After the infusion period, strain the bourbon through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 14-16 days (depending on personal preference)
Cucumber Mint Vodka
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 3 ounces club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves with a spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add the vodka and lime juice to the shaker. Fill 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 wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail recipe, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a refreshing drink.
Cherry Vanilla Infused Whiskey
Elevate your whiskey game with this sweet and indulgent infusion recipe, perfect for sipping on a cold winter’s night or sharing with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter of whiskey (your choice of type and age)
– 1 cup of dried cherries
– 1/2 cup of vanilla beans (split lengthwise)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Combine the whiskey, dried cherries, vanilla beans, and sugar in a large glass jar or container.
2. Stir gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, shaking the mixture every few days to allow flavors to meld.
4. After 4 weeks, strain the whiskey through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Store the infused whiskey in a cool, dark place and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 weeks (depending on desired level of infusion)
Rosemary Grapefruit Tequila
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing blend of rosemary, grapefruit, and tequila.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz rosemary syrup (see note)
– Slice of pink grapefruit, for garnish
– Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and rosemary syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of pink grapefruit and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Note: To make rosemary syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add 2 tablespoons dried rosemary leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes, then strain and store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: None
Caramel Coffee Liqueur
Transform your coffee routine with this rich and indulgent caramel coffee liqueur. Perfect for topping espresso shots, adding flavor to whipped cream, or enjoying on its own as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and softened butter.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in instant coffee powder until well combined.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before whisking in caramel syrup and vanilla extract.
5. Strain the liqueur into a clean glass bottle or jar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Notes:
– Store the liqueur in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
– This recipe makes approximately 1 cup of liqueur, perfect for personal use or gifting.
Raspberry Lemon Infused Gin
Brighten up your cocktails with this refreshing infused gin recipe that combines the sweetness of raspberries and the tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon slices (about 2 lemons)
– 1 bottle of neutral-tasting gin (750ml)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Combine the raspberries and lemon slices in a large glass jar or container with a lid.
2. Pour the gin over the fruit mixture, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
3. Add the sugar to the jar, stirring until it dissolves.
4. Seal the jar and let it infuse for at least 48 hours in the refrigerator. Shake the jar daily.
5. Strain the infused gin through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
6. Store the infused gin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 48 hours
Ginger Peach Bourbon
This refreshing cocktail combines the warmth of ginger with the sweetness of peaches and the richness of bourbon, making it perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz peach puree
– 1/2 oz fresh ginger juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– Splash of lemon-lime soda
– Sliced peaches for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, peach puree, ginger juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with sliced peaches.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Pineapple Habanero Rum
Pineapple Habanero Rum Recipe
Add a tropical twist to your cocktails with this sweet and spicy rum infusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum (at least 80 proof)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh habanero peppers
– 1/4 cup thin slices of fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, combine the rum, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the chopped habanero peppers to the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Add the pineapple slices to the strained rum mixture and stir gently.
6. Store the Pineapple Habanero Rum in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-infusion process.
Blueberry Lavender Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. This Blueberry Lavender Vodka is perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for creative cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle vodka (750ml)
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a clean glass jar, combine the vodka, blueberries, and lavender buds.
3. Let the mixture infuse for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator, shaking the jar every few hours to ensure even flavor distribution.
4. After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another glass bottle, discarding the solids.
5. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 24 hours
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cardamom Cherry Brandy
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this unique and flavorful brandy recipe, featuring the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness of cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 cup brandy (such as Cognac or Armagnac)
– Cherries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the cherry liqueur and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the ground cardamom and orange zest. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean glass bottle or decanter. Add the brandy and stir to combine.
4. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to mature. Shake the bottle daily during this time.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with cherries if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time), plus 2 weeks for maturation
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 20 decadent infused alcohol recipes! From classic combinations like vanilla bean bourbon and strawberry basil rum, to bold twists like spicy jalapeño tequila and pineapple habanero rum, there’s something for every taste. Try infusing vodka with citrus fruits, gin with lavender honey, or whiskey with cinnamon apple for a unique flavor profile. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking to mix things up, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and behind the bar.
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