Homemade liqueur "Cointreau"
12 servings
20 minutes
Homemade liqueur 'Cointreau' is an authorial drink with a rich citrus aroma and pleasant bitterness, inspired by the famous French liqueur. Based on a blend of orange and lemon zest, it acquires a complex flavor through the addition of spices: black pepper, bay leaf, and ground red pepper. The warm spicy note makes the liqueur ideal for warming cocktails or enjoying neat. Historically, Cointreau is associated with the French tradition of exquisite aperitifs and dessert drinks. The homemade version of this liqueur stands out for its richness and brightness of flavor, revealing the full strength of natural ingredients. After several days of infusion in a dark place, the aroma deepens and the taste becomes more harmonious. The liqueur is perfect for complementing cocktails, desserts, or festive evenings, filling moments with notes of refined pleasure.
1
We peel the zest from lemons and oranges. The zest can be removed using a special zester, any sharp knife, or a regular grater. Always try to capture only the colored part of the fruit.
- Orange zest: 2 pieces
- Lemon zest: 1 piece
2
Honestly, I tried using whole orange peels instead of zest. The result, in my opinion, in a 'bitter' liqueur like Cointreau is absolutely normal. The liqueur turned out even more pleasant and vibrant.
3
Pour the zest into a bottle or glass jar, add spices, and pour vodka over it. Add sugar. Close it. Shake.
- Orange zest: 2 pieces
- Lemon zest: 1 piece
- Vodka: 1 l
- Ground red pepper: 1 g
- Black peppercorns: 5 piece
- Bay leaf: 2 pieces
- Sugar: 200 g
4
We place it in a warm dark place for three to four days.