Orange-Vanilla Liqueur Recipe
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 weeks infusion time)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Yields: 3 cups
Description:
This Orange-Vanilla Liqueur has a soft, citrusy flavor that is reminiscent of a creamsicle, thanks to the smooth, mellow blend of orange zest and rich vanilla. While it doesn’t exactly taste like the classic childhood treat, the vanilla extract tempers the tang of the oranges, creating a delightful liqueur thatโs perfect to sip on its own or pour over desserts like ice cream or angel food cake. This makes for an excellent homemade gift, especially when given time to infuse. Be sure to use pure vanilla extract and orange extract for the best flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oranges | 2 |
| Light corn syrup | 1 cup |
| Dark corn syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Vodka | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 903.4 |
| Total Fat | 0.4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 94.4mg |
| Carbohydrates | 136.8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9g |
| Sugars | 70.2g |
| Protein | 1.2g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and based on the full recipe yield of 3 cups. Please adjust accordingly based on portion size.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Oranges:
Start by carefully paring the peel from each of the two oranges in a spiral motion, making a 1-inch-wide strip. Aim to peel off mostly the zest (the orange outer layer) and leave the white membrane (the pith) on the fruit itself. This helps to reduce the bitterness while still capturing the bright, zesty flavor of the orange. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Place the orange peels into a medium-sized saucepan. Add 1 cup of water to the pan, along with the light corn syrup, dark corn syrup, and sugar. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the sugar and syrups evenly. -
Boil the Mixture:
Bring the saucepan to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Allow it to boil for 8-10 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly and the mixture has become fragrant with the orange zest. This boiling process extracts the essential oils from the orange peels, infusing the syrup with the citrus flavor. -
Add the Extracts:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and orange extract. These extracts will enhance the flavor and contribute to the smooth, sweet undertones of the liqueur. -
Cool and Add Vodka:
Let the syrup mixture cool down to room temperature. Once cool, add the vodka to the syrup. The vodka serves as the base of the liqueur, providing the necessary alcohol content to carry the flavors and preserve the mixture. -
Infuse the Liqueur:
Pour the completed liqueur into a clean jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. During this time, the flavors will meld together, resulting in a smoother, more complex liqueur. -
Strain and Serve:
After two weeks of infusing, you may strain the liqueur through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solid bits of peel. This step is optional, depending on whether you prefer a clearer liqueur or donโt mind the natural pulp. Once strained, your Orange-Vanilla Liqueur is ready to enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this liqueur in small liqueur glasses, or pour over desserts like vanilla ice cream, fruit tarts, or angel food cake. It also makes a beautiful gift when presented in a decorative bottle, perfect for the holidays or special occasions.
Notes:
- This liqueur requires at least two weeks to fully infuse and develop its flavors. If you’re planning to give it as a gift, make sure to prepare it in advance so it has plenty of time to sit.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the liqueur by varying the amount of sugar or corn syrup to suit your personal preference.
- For an extra twist, try using flavored vodka to further complement the orange and vanilla notes.
This homemade Orange-Vanilla Liqueur is a delightful and creative way to use fresh oranges and transform them into a smooth, flavorful drink. The perfect combination of citrus and vanilla, itโs a versatile treat that can enhance desserts or simply be enjoyed as a sweet after-dinner drink. Enjoy the refreshing citrus notes balanced with the richness of vanillaโan elegant homemade gift or a delicious indulgence just for you.
