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Grandma's Classic Homemade Liqueur Recipe

Classic homemade citrus and vanilla liqueur infused in vodka. Easy, traditional, and delicious.

Discover Grandma's classic homemade liqueur recipe with citrus zest and vanilla. Easy to make, perfect for sipping or cocktails.

Recipe Details

Prep time
20m
Cook time
0s
Rest time
1w 3d 12h
Total time
1w 3d 12h

Ingredients

Servings:
1
  • 5 piece whole peeled lemon zest
  • 5 piece whole peeled orange zest
  • 3 piece whole peeled grapefruit zest
  • 0.5 piece whole vanilla bean split lengthwise
  • 1 piece whole cinnamon stick
  • 5 piece whole cloves
  • 100 g granulated white sugar
  • 250 ml vodka 40 percent alcohol
  • 125 ml filtered water

Origins

Europe

Instructions

  1. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the zest from the lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, avoiding the white pith.
  2. Place all the citrus zests into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  3. Add the split vanilla bean, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves to the jar with the citrus zests.
  4. For the vodka over the ingredients in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 14 days, shaking the jar gently every two days.
  6. After 14 days, prepare a simple syrup by combining the granulated sugar and filtered water in a small saucepan.
  7. Heat the sugar and water mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat and let cool.
  8. Strain the infused vodka through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.
  9. Slowly add the cooled simple syrup to the infused vodka and stir gently to combine.
  10. Transfer the liqueur to a clean bottle and seal it. Let it rest for an additional 7 days before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips

  • Use fresh organic citrus fruits for the best flavor and aroma.
  • Avoid including the white pith of the citrus as it can add bitterness.
  • Shake the jar gently every two days to help infuse the flavors evenly.
  • Store the liqueur in a cool, dark place to preserve its quality.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled as a digestif after meals.
  • Use in cocktails or dessert recipes for added flavor.
  • Pair with citrus desserts or creamy cheeses.

Enjoy this classic homemade citrus and vanilla liqueur chilled or in cocktails for a delightful traditional treat.


Nutrition Facts

Estimated values per 100g.

  • Fiber (g): 0
  • Sodium (g): 0.01
  • Sugar (g): 15
  • Fat (g): 0
  • Carbohydrates (g): 15
  • Protein (g): 0
  • Calories: 210
  • Cholesterol (g): 0
  • Saturated Fat (g): 0

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