Are you a mixologist looking to elevate your cocktail game? Look no further! Infusing your own spirits with unique flavors can add a whole new level of excitement and creativity to your drink-making. In this article, we’ll explore 20 innovative and delicious infused alcohol recipes that will take your bar to the next level.
From classic combinations like vanilla bean bourbon and citrus-infused tequila, to more adventurous pairings like spicy chili pepper vodka and cardamom coffee liqueur, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the world of mixology, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these creative infused alcohol recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for making them at home. So why wait? Let’s get started and take your cocktail game to new heights!
Vanilla Bean Bourbon Infusion
Elevate your cocktails with the rich flavors of vanilla and bourbon. This infusion recipe is perfect for creating unique and delicious drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (at least 90 proof)
– 4-6 whole vanilla beans
– 1 liter water
Instructions:
1. Combine bourbon, vanilla beans, and water in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Stir gently to combine, then seal the container.
3. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 14 days, shaking the mixture every other day to facilitate infusion.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the vanilla beans and reserve the bourbon-infused liquid.
Cooking Time: 2 weeks
Tips:
– Use high-quality bourbon for the best flavor.
– Adjust the number of vanilla beans to your taste, as some people prefer a stronger or milder flavor.
– This infusion is great for making cocktails, but you can also use it as a base for desserts or baked goods.
Spicy Chili Pepper Vodka
Take your vodka game to the next level with this spicy and flavorful infusion, perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for craft cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-proof vodka (at least 80%)
– 1/4 cup dried chili peppers (such as ancho or guajillo)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the vodka and water.
2. Heat over low heat until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Add the dried chili peppers to the mixture and let it steep for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. Discard the solids and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
Cooking Time: 2-12 hours
Notes:
– Adjust the level of heat to your liking by using more or fewer chili peppers.
– Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Lavender Honey Gin
Elevate your gin game with this unique and refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the subtle charm of lavender. Perfect for warm evenings or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz lavender syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3 oz tonic water
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lavender syrup, and honey syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with tonic water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a slice of lemon.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Citrus-Infused Tequila
Elevate your tequila game with this refreshing and flavorful infusion, perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a citrusy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of tequila (100% agave recommended)
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 lime, sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions:
1. Cut the orange, lemon, and lime slices into thin wedges.
2. Place the tequila bottle in a large bowl or container that can fit all the citrus slices comfortably.
3. Add the sliced citrus to the tequila bottle, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the citrus slices.
5. Seal the bottle and store it at room temperature for 2-3 days. Shake the bottle daily to ensure even infusion.
6. After 2-3 days, strain the tequila through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: None required; simply let the flavors meld together!
Cinnamon Apple Whiskey
Warm up with a rich and spicy Cinnamon Apple Whiskey perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. This easy-to-make cocktail combines the comfort of apple cider, cinnamon, and whiskey in one delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, water, and cinnamon sticks. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large glass or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Add whiskey and brown sugar (if using) to the liquid. Stir until dissolved.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or apple slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Coconut Rum with Pineapple
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing blend of coconut and pineapple, infused with the warmth of rum. Perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz light rum
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of club soda
– Pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: None needed! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Rosemary Grapefruit Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing rosemary grapefruit vodka infusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (250ml) vodka
– 2 cups (400g) fresh grapefruit slices
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the vodka and grapefruit slices.
2. Add the chopped rosemary to the mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed among the grapefruit.
3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking the mixture every other day to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After the infusion period, strain the vodka through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. If desired, add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
Cooking Time: 2 weeks
Peppermint Mocha Liqueur
Combine the flavors of a classic mocha with the refreshing taste of peppermint to create a unique and delicious liqueur perfect for holiday gatherings or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vodka
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee powder
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the vodka, heavy cream, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and coffee powder.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
4. Allow the liqueur to mature for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Basil Rum
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on a classic rum punch. The sweetness of strawberries pairs perfectly with the bright, herbaceous flavor of basil, making for a unique and delicious drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces white rum
– 1 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 ounces club soda
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the strawberries and basil leaves together with a wooden spoon or muddler until well combined.
2. Add the rum and simple syrup to the pitcher and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the club soda and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Strawberry Basil Rum over the ice.
Cooking Time: None (this recipe is a drink!)
Earl Grey Tea Gin
Combine the sophistication of Earl Grey tea with the smoothness of gin, and you’ll have a unique cocktail perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a great way to add some excitement to your usual gin and tonic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gin
– 1/2 cup water
– 4 Earl Grey tea bags (black tea with bergamot oil)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the gin and water.
2. Add the Earl Grey tea bags and let it steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has taken on a subtle tea flavor.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the mixture into a clean glass bottle.
6. Chill the Earl Grey Tea Gin in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Pour 1-2 oz of the Earl Grey Tea Gin over ice, top with tonic water, and garnish with a lemon slice.
Ginger Lemongrass Vodka
Elevate your cocktails with this unique and flavorful vodka infusion, perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a refreshing twist. This recipe combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the bright, citrusy zing of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter vodka (at least 35% ABV)
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemongrass stalks, bruised
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Combine vodka, ginger, and lemongrass in a large glass jar or container.
2. Add water to the jar, ensuring all ingredients are covered.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the vodka mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding solids.
5. Store the infused vodka in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 14 days
Blackberry Sage Bourbon
This refreshing bourbon cocktail combines the sweetness of blackberries with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 cup fresh blackberry puree
– 2-3 sage leaves, chopped
– Lime wheel and blackberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the blackberry puree and chopped sage to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a few fresh blackberries.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Orange Clove Brandy
Elevate your winter gatherings with this aromatic and soothing digestif. Orange Clove Brandy combines the warmth of spices with the brightness of citrus, making it a perfect accompaniment to holiday festivities.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brandy
– 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Curaçao or Grand Marnier)
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon clove syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves)
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine brandy, orange liqueur, and orange juice.
2. Add the clove syrup (or ground cloves) and stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Strain the mixture into a warmed decanter or mug.
6. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Tequila
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Jalapeño Lime Tequila recipe, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila (preferably a silver or blanco)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see below)
– Salt, for rimming the glass
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Jalapeño Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Cherry Vanilla Whiskey
Combine the warm spices of vanilla with the rich flavor of cherries, and you’ll create a whiskey that’s perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for cocktails. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 cup vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1/4 cup whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the cherry liqueur, vanilla-flavored vodka, and whiskey.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and well combined (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the simple syrup until dissolved.
4. Pour into a clean glass bottle or jar and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Yield: 1 cup
Enjoy your Cherry Vanilla Whiskey on its own, or use as a base for cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cardamom Coffee Liqueur
Elevate your coffee game with this unique and aromatic liqueur that combines the warmth of cardamom with the richness of coffee. This recipe is perfect for adventurous bartenders and coffee lovers looking to add a twist to their favorite drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee, vodka, simple syrup, ground cardamom, and salt.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the flavors have melded together (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to mature.
4. Strain the liqueur through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Blueberry Thyme Vodka
Infuse the flavors of blueberries and thyme into your vodka to create a unique and refreshing cocktail. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) fresh blueberries
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 bottle of vodka (750ml)
– Optional: simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the blueberries and thyme sprigs into a clean glass jar or container.
3. Pour the vodka over the blueberry mixture, making sure they are completely covered.
4. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to infuse.
5. Strain the vodka through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
6. If desired, mix with simple syrup to balance the flavors.
Cooking Time: 2 weeks (infusion time)
Pumpkin Spice Rum
This autumnal cocktail combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie spice with the smoothness of rum, perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 1/2 oz pumpkin puree
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 oz pumpkin spice mix (or to taste)
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine rum, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and heavy cream.
2. Add pumpkin spice mix and stir until well combined.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick-mix cocktail that’s ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Lemongrass Coconut Rum
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of coconut with the citrusy zing of lemongrass, all wrapped up in a creamy rum-based drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 tsp dried lemongrass leaves
– Ice
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine dark rum, coconut cream, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the dried lemongrass leaves to the shaker and muddle gently (about 10-15 times) to release their oils and flavor.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Smoked Maple Bourbon
Smoked Maple Bourbon Recipe
Elevate your bourbon game with this rich and complex Smoked Maple Bourbon recipe, perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1.75 liters bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons smoked sea salt (such as Lapsang Souchong)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and water.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the syrup dissolves and the mixture reaches 100°F to 105°F (38°C to 40°C).
3. Remove from heat and add the smoked sea salt and vanilla extract. Stir until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is more of an infusion process than cooking.
Summary
Get creative with your cocktails and try out these 20 unique infused alcohol recipes! From spicy tequila to sweet whiskey, there’s something for every mixologist. Infuse bourbon with vanilla beans, vodka with chili peppers, or gin with lavender honey for a flavorful twist on classic drinks. Try citrus-infused tequila or cinnamon apple whiskey for a taste of the season. Or go bold with coconut rum and pineapple or peppermint mocha liqueur. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes have got you covered!
