It's summertime, and you know what that means; time to start experimenting with making your own fruit liqueurs at home! Fruit liqueur recipes can be made using any number of fruits, but some of the most popular are strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, pineapples and peaches. Other fruits used to make home-made fruit liqueurs include oranges, cherries and lemons. Why not experiment with a few different combinations this summer?
Why are fruit liqueurs so popular?
Fruit liqueurs have become a popular beverage to be added to the making of classic cocktails such as margaritas and daiquiris. Making your own homemade fruit liqueur will also save you money, because it is significantly cheaper than buying ready-made ones that can cost quite a bit, depending on brand. When making it at home, you just need to invest in some simple ingredients including vodka or brandy (depending on which type of fruit(s) you want to use), water and sugar for each specific recipe. The most important thing about any home-made liquor is patience; give yourself enough time between steps when following these recipes.
You can make different kinds of fruit liqueurs depending on the fruits you have in hand, from blueberry liqueurs to strawberry and raspberry liqueurs, or even lemon, pineapple or orange flavors. If you have the ingredients, you can even make some delicious coffee or chocolate flavored liqueurs to go with those after-dinner chocolates or sweet desserts. In addition, these fruit liqueurs can also be used when making desserts and delicious fruit punches for summer outdoor bar-be-que's and pool parties.
Rather than buying expensive bottled mixes from the market, try your hand at making some delicious liqueurs at home by following this process. It is also a great way for you to learn a new skill for a future home-based business where you can earn some extra income, like making homemade wines and other beverages.
Here’s how to make a delicious fruit liqueur at home
Having all your ingredients and equipment ready to go before you start will make the process a lot less stressful. The ingredients you will need include vodka or brandy and fruit, depending on which recipe you are following. You will also need a total of three large jars to store the finished product in; these must be sterilized beforehand using boiling water and dried thoroughly with a clean towel before use. Finally, having an accurate weighing scale is really helpful for this process as it helps you follow recipes precisely rather than guessing how much fruit or sugar etc., have been added.
You can find all the ingredients required to make your chosen liqueur at any major supermarket including vodka (if making your own), caster sugar and fresh summer fruits such as raspberries, peaches and apricots. If possible, try to choose organic varieties that haven't come into contact with pesticides while growing; this will make sure your homemade liqueur is as healthy and natural as it can be. If you're using fresh fruit, make sure they are properly washed before use to avoid any unwanted bacteria or dirt getting into the mixture. You should also try to buy ripe summer fruits so that their flavor will shine through in your finished product; if necessary, give them a little taste beforehand just to ensure they aren't sour or bitter etc., which could ruin the taste of your final spirit.
Wash and thoroughly dry fruit before cutting it up. Cut them into equal quantities, approximately 200 g per 500 ml bottle. Place the cut-up pieces of fruit in a pot with sugar, water, and vodka and cook them until all ingredients are fully dissolved into each other. Once the sugar has dissolved, top up with vodka or grain alcohol and pout in until all bottles are filled to their necks and screw on lids tightly before placing in a cool cupboard or similar for around three weeks (longer if you can be patient!). After this time has elapsed gently pour through muslin cloths into clean sterilized bottles and seal once more; now your drink is ready! Don't forget that it needs at least six months aging after making so don't break out the glasses just yet.
The process may seem laborious but believe me it's worth it; not only do homemade fruity liqueurs taste great, but they're also incredibly cheap compared to bottled varieties. Making your own delicious tasting strawberry liqueur or other fruit liqueur at home can be incredibly easy and it is the perfect way to impress friends this summer. If not, simply keep them all for yourself; the choice is up to you.