Try Our Homemade Cranberry Liqueur

By Sharon Merkel Prudhomme ~                                                                   

Did you know that the Garden State is the biggest cranberry producer in the United States? Many only think of cranberries during the holidays to accompany the turkey and dressings. Often touted as being too tart for anything else, this simple libation recipe just might change your mind. Why not give it a whirl? May turn out to be a fun gift to bring to your hosts.

Ingredients:                                                                                                                  

1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries-wash & discard any ‘questionables’                                                  

2 cups of sugar

1 cup of water                                                                      

1.5 cups 100 proof vodka

2 tsp. grapefruit zest dash of cinnamon                                                                                          

Chop all berries- use a food processor or blender. Stir berries and sugar together in a large bowl-allow to sit for an hour. Add water, vodka, grapefruit and cinnamon- store in an airtight container in a dark, cool spot for about 3-4 weeks. Give the container a shake a couple of times a week to prevent the mixture from clumping.

Strain out the solids through a colander or sieve. Dispose of solids and strain again with finer sieve-I like cheesecloth. Pour into a clean container allowing to stand 1 more week. Finally, filter one more time into a clean decanter or bottle. Can be consumed or, best to allow to sit for a couple more weeks.

Makes about 1 Quart.