How to Make Flavored Vodka

Last Updated on March 17, 2017 by Diane Hoffmaster

Flavored vodka can make the difference between a good summer cocktail recipe and a GREAT summer cocktail recipe.  It is also incredibly easy to make flavored vodka at home with just a few simple ingredients.  I am always amazed to see how much more expensive flavored vodka is than plain vodka when I make a run to the liquor store.  For very little effort on your part you can easily make flavored vodka at home and save yourself some money!  Here are a few tips to get you started and once my vodka is done 'incubating' I will share a recipe with you so stop by in a few weeks for an  update!

How to Make Flavored Vodka

What should you use to make your flavored vodka?

Honestly, you can use just about any fruit, vegetable or herb to make flavored vodka.  Strong flavors require only a small amount of product and a short incubation time.  Mild flavored foods will need a larger amount to start and will have to sit longer to get a noticeable flavor.  Taste your infusion every few days to see how the flavor is coming along.  A general guideline will be anywhere from 3 to 4 days to 2 to 3 weeks so plan ahead and don't wait til the day before you need it to start!

What materials do you need to make flavored vodka?

Honestly, the only things you need to make flavored vodka are your flavorings (or infusion ingredients as they are called), your vodka of choice, and a glass container with a screw on lid.  It is a very easy process!  If you are gluten intolerant you can make flavored vodka using potato vodka, which is gluten free.  Start with a decent vodka...you don't need to spend a fortune but don't buy anything that will take the paint off your walls either.  You want a nice lid on your container so the alcohol doesn't evaporate off as it sits.  How much infusion material will you need? In general, you want to  fill your glass jar or bottle approximately half-full with your flavoring ingredients, and then fill the rest with vodka.  Depending on how much flavored vodka you are making, adjust your volume accordingly.

How to actually MAKE your flavored vodka:

1. Wash your glass containers with hot soapy water and dry thoroughly.

2.  Wash all of your flavoring ingredients as well as possible to remove non food debris like stems and to remove any pesticide residue.  Best to start with organic ingredients if at all possible.

3.  Fill your glass jar about ½ way full with your infusion ingredient.  Use less for strong flavors like chili peppers and more for mild flavors like apples.  Make sure you cut large items into smaller pieces.  Blueberries can be left whole but apples should be diced, for example.

4.  Fill the container with vodka, leaving an inch or so of space at the top.  Screw on the lid.

4.  Let the glass containers sit in a cool, dark place until they reach the desired flavor.  Check on them every few days and taste to see how strong the flavored vodka has become.

5.  You can strain out the ingredients in the vodka if you want to give them as gifts.  If you leave them in place, the flavor will get more intense over time.  Don't forget to label them!  You wouldn't want to use a spicy vodka in the wrong sort of cocktail!  They will stay good for about 2 months in the refrigerator.

 

Have you ever made flavored vodka?  What flavor did you choose to make?