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BLUEBERRY LIQUEUR

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Infusion Time: 4 weeks

Total Time: 4 weeks, 15 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Yield: Approx. 750 ml (25 servings)

Intensity Level: Low (Hands-off infusing process)

Ingredients

  • Fresh Blueberries: 4 cups (approx. 600g), ripe and washed

  • Base Spirit: 2 cups (500ml) Vodka (80-proof / 40% ABV) or Everclear/Neutral Grain Alcohol

  • Enhancer (Optional): 1/2 cup (125ml) Brandy or Cognac (adds depth and warmth)

  • Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g)

  • Water: 1 cup (240ml)

  • Aromatics (Optional): 1 lemon (zest only, thin strips) or 1 small cinnamon stick

Cooking & Preparation Process

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

  1. Wash the blueberries thoroughly under cold water and discard any stems, leaves, or bruised berries. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.

  2. Transfer the dried blueberries into a large, clean glass jar (a 1.5-liter Mason jar works best).

  3. Using a clean wooden spoon, potato masher, or muddle tool, lightly crush the blueberries just enough to break the skins. You want to release the juices without turning the fruit into a purée.

Step 2: Steep & Infuse

  1. Add the lemon zest (or optional cinnamon stick) to the jar with the crushed blueberries.

  2. Pour the vodka and brandy over the fruit, ensuring the blueberries are entirely submerged under the alcohol.

  3. Seal the jar tightly with an airtight lid. Shake gently to mix the ingredients.

  4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or cupboard) for 4 weeks. Shake the jar gently every 2–3 days to help distribute the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Simple Syrup

  1. After the 4-week infusion period, combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves (about 3–5 minutes). Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.

  3. Allow the simple syrup to cool down entirely to room temperature before using.

Step 4: Strain & Blend

  1. Place a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter over a large bowl or measuring pitcher.

  2. Pour the infused blueberry alcohol mixture through the cloth to separate the liquid from the solids. Press very gently on the blueberries to extract the flavor, but avoid squeezing aggressively to keep the liqueur clear.

  3. Pour the cooled simple syrup into the strained blueberry liquid and stir well to combine.

Step 5: Bottle & Store

  1. Using a funnel, pour the blueberry liqueur into sterilized glass bottles or sealable jars.

  2. Seal tightly and let the liqueur rest in a dark place for at least 48 hours before serving to allow the flavors to mellow and integrate seamlessly.

Storage & Shelf Life

  • Storage Environment: Keep in a cool, dark cabinet or directly in the refrigerator.

  • Shelf Life: Stored properly at room temperature, homemade blueberry liqueur lasts up to 1 year. Refrigerator storage preserves optimum flavor for up to 2 years.

Serving Suggestions

  • Neat or On the Rocks: Serve 1.5 oz over a large ice cube as a digestif.

  • Blueberry Spritz: Combine 1 oz blueberry liqueur, 3 oz Prosecco or dry sparkling wine, and a splash of club soda over ice.

  • Cocktail Modifier: Replace standard berry syrups or cassis in your favorite Gin & Tonic, Vodka Soda, or Sour recipes.

Nutritional Facts

Per Serving (1 oz / 30 ml)

  • Calories: 65 kcal

  • Total Fat: 0 g

  • Sodium: 0 mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 8 g

    • Dietary Fiber: 0.2 g

    • Sugars: 7.5 g

  • Protein: 0.1 g

  • Alcohol: ~4.5 g (varies based on base spirit ABV)

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