Are you looking for the perfect Christmas gift to wow those special people in your life? Well, look no further, because I have an oh so easy recipe for delicious and festive Cranberry Infused Vodka that will jingle your bells!
Edible homemade gifts from the kitchen have long been a very personal and traditional way to celebrate the holidays with Christmas cookies and candies and other yummy homemade treats.
But this year, why not spread some holiday cheer and give a delightfully unique and thoughtful gift that will be remembered and appreciated long after the holidays are over? Oh, and while you are at it, be sure to make a batch yourself!
Cranberry Infused Vodka only takes about 15 minutes to make. It’s a gorgeous gift with its deep Christmasy red color when packaged in a beautiful decanter or festive jar. You could even include a card with servings suggestions like Cranberry Vodka Martinis or Cranberry Cosmopolitans. The possibilities are endless.
Here is what you will need to make this recipe:
You will need the following ingredients: fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a bottle of vodka. That’s it!
Here is how to make it:
Place the cranberries, sugar, vanilla extract, and one tablespoon of water in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat.
Let the mixture simmer for about five minutes or until the berries have burst and stir frequently.
Let the mixture cool a few minutes, then pour the mixture into a large pitcher and add the vodka. Stir to combine.
Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for one week before using.
After one week, strain the mixture through a small mesh strainer to remove the cranberries and any solids.
Store the cranberry infused vodka covered in the refrigerator.
Sharon’s Tips
- Cranberry Infused Vodka will keep in the refrigerator covered for up to two weeks.
- To serve, use your favorite cocktail recipe using flavored vodka, or pour a little of the cranberry vodka over ice and add tonic water to taste. Garnish with a slice of orange, lemon, or lime, and enjoy!
- It’s not necessary to buy the most expensive vodka for this recipe. Use a medium price liquor, and you will be fine.
- I have found inexpensive decorative bottles at Hobby Lobby and World Market.
- Plan ahead, remember the mixture has to sit in the refrigerator for one week before it is ready to use.
- If you give this as a gift, be sure to let the recipient know it needs to be stored in the refrigerator.
Related recipes:
If you like this recipe, you might also be interested in these recipes for homemade Christmas or hostess gifts:
- How to Make Preserved Lemons
- Mixed Olive Tapenade
- Chocolate Billionaires Candy
- Classic Jezebel Sauce
- Forgotten Cookies aka Forgotten Kisses
- Lemon Shortbread Cookies
- Caramel Corn with Chocolate Drizzle
- Homemade Pecan Butter
If you need more recipes or menu ideas, check out my roundup post: 31 Easy Homemade Edible Christmas Gifts.
★ If you make Cranberry Infused Vodka, please leave a comment and give this recipe a star rating. I would love to know how you liked it!
Thanks so much for visiting Grits and Pinecones!
How to Make Cranberry Infused Vodka
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 750 milliliter bottle vodka
Instructions
- Place cranberries, sugar, vanilla extract, and one tablespoon of water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and let the mixture simmer for about five minutes or until the berries have burst.
- Pour the mixture into a large pitcher and add the vodka. Mix well. Cover tightly and let sit in the refrigerator for one week.
- After one week, strain the mixture using a small mesh strainer and then store the cranberry infused vodka covered in the refrigerator.
- To serve, use your favorite cocktail recipe or pour a little of the cranberry vodka over ice and add tonic water to taste. Garnish with a slice of orange, lemon, or lime, and enjoy!
After strained, how long does it last?
Hi Amanda, there are a lot of factors that can affect how long it will last. I would say probably three to four days max if refrigerated.
All the best,
Sharon
Does it have to be refrigerated? Can I let it sit at room temperature or in the basement or garage for a week?
Also, can it sit longer than a week?
Yes, I would definitely refrigerate it! I have only let it sit for a week so can’t really speak to how it would work out if you leave it longer. Sorry!
Sharon
Regarding the refrigeration, I’m giving this as a gift. Should I instruct people to keep it refrigerated after using it? Thanks!
Hi Kerry,
Yes, I would either put a note on the card or simply tell them. Hope they enjoy it!
All my best,
Sharon
How much does this make?
Hi Pam,
A fifth of liquor is 750 ml which is 25 3/5 ounces. The cranberries do soak up some of the vodka so you will end up with about 24-25 ounces. Hope this helps!
Sharon