Cranberry Orange Vodka Recipe

When preparing an infusion as delightful as Cranberry Orange Vodka, I pay close attention to the balance of flavors and colors it brings to the spirit. I love how the tartness of the fresh cranberries plays with the sweet, citrusy notes of the sliced orange.

Using a cup of cranberries does far more than just lend a vibrant hue; it imparts a serious dose of vitamins C and E and a healthy handful of antioxidants. Then we slice the orange, adding to our infusion a second shot of vitamin C plus the refreshing zest of orange that makes the vodka shine.

For this infusion, I don’t just add cranberries and orange slices to a jar of vodka and call it a day. I also add a tablespoon of sugar, which is optional but highly recommended if you want the infusion to be a sipper and not a pucker-er.

Finally, I like to emphasize that this infusion is not about producing a sweet product. One way I ensure that is by adding only a modest amount of sugar and no more.

I also add a split vanilla bean for extra flavor and aroma. The vodka serves as a canvas for these remarkable natural ingredients, making this not just a pretty infusion but a fun one to drink, too.

Ingredients

Cranberries:
High in antioxidants, bringing tartness and vivid color.

Orange:
Delivers vitamin C, contributes a zesty sweetness and scent.

Sugar:
Tart flavors balance the sweetness, and it dissolves easily.

Vanilla Bean:
Provides warm, creamy undertones, which can be left out for a simpler flavor.

Vodka:
Neutral spirit base, permits flavors to merge effortlessly.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split (optional)
• 750 ml vodka (one standard bottle)

Instructions

1. Wash the cranberries in water that is cold and free of any impurities, then throw away any that are not in good shape.

2. Slice the orange into very thin pieces, keeping the peel on, and set aside.

3. In a clean, large glass jar or bottle, add the oranges and cranberries, sliced and whole, respectively.

4. Dust the sugar over the fruit in the jar.

5. If you use a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and add it to the jar.

6. Over the ingredients in the jar, pour the vodka, making certain that all components are completely underwater.

7. Tightly seal the jar or bottle with a lid.

8. To assist in dissolving the sugar, gently shake the jar.

9. For at least 1 week, keep the jar in a cool, dark place, giving it a gentle shake every other day to help with the flavor infusion.

10. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle to remove the solids. Discard the solids, and seal the bottle containing the vodka. Store in a cool, dark place for up to two months or in the freezer for an indefinite shelf life.
Have fun, but be careful!

Equipment Needed

1. Large bowl
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large glass jar or bottle with lid
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth

FAQ

• Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?You can, indeed, use frozen cranberries. Just defrost them before use to ensure that they are properly infused with the vodka.
• How long should the mixture steep?The best result comes from steeping the mixture for a period of at least 3 to 5 days. During this time, you should shake the jar daily. After this period of steeping, the flavors are fully integrated.
• Do I need to refrigerate the mixture while it steeps?No, refrigeration is not needed. Instead, keep it in a dark, cool place.
• What can I use if I don’t have a vanilla bean?Omit the vanilla bean or substitute it with a small amount of vanilla extract. Start with 1/4 teaspoon; add more to taste if desired.
• Can I use other types of alcohol?Certainly! One can play around with various kinds of clear spirits, such as gin or white rum, but the end result will have a different flavor profile.
• How should I store the finished product?After straining, keep the vodka that’s been infused in a clean, airtight container. The best options are a cool, dark cupboard or your refrigerator.
• How long will the cranberry orange vodka last?If kept in the right conditions, it can remain useful for several months. Always look for any odd scents or taste characteristics before utilizing.

Substitutions and Variations

Cranberries that are fresh: Replace with one cup of raspberry halves or pomegranate arils for a fun remix.
Citrus: Slice 1 lemon or 1 lime, and use it to add a different citrus flavor.
Replace sugar with 1 tablespoon of honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetener.
Vanilla bean: If desired, for convenience, substitute 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Use gin for an herbal note, or white rum for a sweeter profile.