Apple Pie Vodka
This homemade Apple Pie Vodka captures all the cozy notes of cinnamon, sweet apples, and warm spices in a bottle, perfect for fall gatherings or gift-giving during the holiday season.
Equipment
- Large Glass Container with Airtight Lid
- Fine-mesh Sieve
- Cheesecloth or Coffee Filter
- Decorative Glass Bottles (for storage)
Ingredients
- 750 ml vodka good quality (1 bottle)
- 4 medium apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise (or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 star anise pod
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste preference
- 2 tbsp brown sugar optional, for deeper caramel notes
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly, then core and slice them into thin wedges about 1/4-inch thick. Leave the skin on for added color and flavor.
- Select a large glass container with an airtight lid. Ensure it's completely dry and sterilized by rinsing with boiling water.
- Place the sliced apples into your glass container, then add the cinnamon sticks, split vanilla bean, cloves, and star anise.
- Pour the vodka over the ingredients, making sure everything is fully submerged. Add your sweetener of choice and gently stir to distribute.
- Seal your container tightly and place it in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight.
- Once daily, gently shake or invert your container to redistribute the ingredients and ensure even flavor extraction.
- After 3 days, sample a small amount to assess the flavor development. If the flavor is too weak, continue infusing for up to 7 days total. If you desire more sweetness, add additional honey or brown sugar to taste.
- Once your desired flavor intensity is reached, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove all solids. Press gently on the apple pieces to extract maximum flavor.
- Transfer your infused vodka to clean, preferably decorative glass bottles. For best results, allow the strained vodka to rest for 24-48 hours before serving.
Notes
For a lower-sugar version, replace honey with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
No vanilla bean? Use 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract instead.
Apple varieties can be mixed for more complex flavors.
For a stronger spice profile, add a small piece of fresh ginger (about 1-inch).
Stores in a cool, dark place for 6-8 months.
The infused apple slices can be repurposed as toppings for ice cream or yogurt.
No vanilla bean? Use 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract instead.
Apple varieties can be mixed for more complex flavors.
For a stronger spice profile, add a small piece of fresh ginger (about 1-inch).
Stores in a cool, dark place for 6-8 months.
The infused apple slices can be repurposed as toppings for ice cream or yogurt.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 9gSugar: 8g
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