DIY Infused Spirits for Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

DIY Infused Spirits for Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

Infused spirits add a unique twist to cocktails and mixed drinks, allowing you to create custom flavors that elevate your home bar experience. Infusing liquor is a simple process that involves steeping ingredients like fruits, herbs, spices, and botanicals in your choice of alcohol. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing citrus-infused vodka or a warm, spiced whiskey, homemade infusions let you experiment with endless flavor combinations. Here are three easy and delicious DIY infused spirits to try.

1. Citrus and Basil-Infused Vodka

This bright and herbaceous infusion adds a refreshing twist to classic vodka cocktails. The combination of citrus zest and fresh basil creates a versatile spirit perfect for spritzers, martinis, and summer cocktails.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vodka (choose a high-quality brand for the best results)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 5-6 fresh basil leaves
• 1 glass jar with a tight-sealing lid

Instructions

1. Wash the citrus fruits thoroughly and use a peeler or zester to remove the zest, avoiding the bitter white pith.
2. Place the citrus zest and basil leaves in the glass jar.
3. Pour the vodka over the ingredients, ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. Seal the jar and shake gently.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for 3-5 days, shaking the jar once a day.
6. Taste the infusion after a few days; if the flavor is strong enough, strain out the solids using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
7. Transfer the infused vodka to a clean bottle and store it in the refrigerator.

How to Use

• Mix with tonic water and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing citrus-basil vodka tonic.
• Use in a lemon drop martini for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
• Combine with sparkling water and a hint of honey for a light and aromatic cocktail.

2. Spiced Honey-Infused Whiskey

For those who love warm, cozy flavors, this spiced honey whiskey infusion is a perfect choice. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and infused with warming spices that enhance whiskey’s natural depth.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whiskey (bourbon or rye work best)
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 1 small piece of fresh ginger (about ½ inch), sliced
• 1 glass jar with a tight-sealing lid

Instructions

1. In a glass jar, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and sliced ginger.
2. Pour in the whiskey and add the honey, stirring to dissolve.
3. Seal the jar and shake gently to mix the ingredients.
4. Let the infusion sit in a cool, dark place for 5-7 days, shaking the jar daily to blend the flavors.
5. Taste the infusion after a few days; if you want a stronger spice flavor, let it infuse longer.
6. Strain out the spices using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
7. Transfer the infused whiskey to a clean bottle for storage.

How to Use

• Mix with hot water and lemon juice for a soothing spiced whiskey hot toddy.
• Use in an old fashioned with a dash of bitters for a rich and flavorful twist.
• Pour over ice with a splash of ginger beer for a bold and spicy cocktail.

3. Berry and Vanilla-Infused Rum

Sweet and fragrant, this berry and vanilla rum infusion is perfect for tropical and dessert-inspired cocktails. The combination of ripe berries and smooth vanilla creates a beautifully colored and flavorful spirit.

Ingredients

• 2 cups white rum
• ½ cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries work well)
• 1 vanilla bean, split open
• 1 glass jar with a tight-sealing lid

Instructions

1. Rinse the berries and pat them dry. Lightly mash them to release their juices.
2. Place the berries in the glass jar and add the split vanilla bean.
3. Pour the rum over the ingredients, ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. Seal the jar and shake gently.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for 3-7 days, shaking the jar daily.
6. Once the infusion reaches the desired flavor, strain out the berries and vanilla bean using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
7. Transfer the infused rum to a clean bottle for storage.

How to Use

• Mix with coconut water and a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical berry cocktail.
• Add to a mojito for a fruity and aromatic twist.
• Serve over ice cream or use in a dessert-inspired cocktail.