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Although many of us love coffee and vodka separately, combining these two ingredients might seem like an unusual idea. However, when we consider the boldness of vodka and the satisfying aroma of coffee, it becomes clear that these two beverages are meant to be together.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of making Coffee-Cocoa Infused Vodka – a smooth and flavorful beverage with a unique twist. By infusing vodka with whole coffee beans and cocoa nibs, we create a deliciously rich and aromatic version of this classic spirit.
This Coffee-Cocoa Infused Vodka recipe is perfect for those who love to experiment with new flavors and want to impress their guests with a unique drink. You can enjoy the infused vodka over ice, in a mixed drink or as the base for other coffee-flavored cocktails.
Follow me through the steps and discover how easy it is to create this tasty beverage at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a barista and a cocktail enthusiast, I have come across many vodka recipes in the past. However, this coffee-cocoa infused vodka recipe takes the cake. If you are a fan of caffeine and love your vodka, then you will undoubtedly fall in love with this recipe. Here are some reasons why I think you will love this unique flavoured vodka:
Firstly, the combination of coffee and cocoa nibs create an exciting flavour profile that tantalizes your taste buds. The coffee beans add a strong kick of caffeine to the mixture while cocoa nibs add a subtle hint of bittersweetness that lingers on the tongue after each sip.
Secondly, unlike other flavoured vodkas available in the market, the use of natural ingredients such as whole coffee beans and cocoa nibs makes this recipe healthier and more satisfying when compared to processed sugary alternatives.
Moreover, this recipe offers versatility with endless flavor combinations. You could add any flavored syrup or liqueur such as Irish cream or Kahlua to add an extra dimension to the drink. And for those who don’t enjoy their drinks neat, this infused vodka soda or homemade coffee vodka would serve well as the base for mixed drinks like cocktails or martinis.
Lastly, It is incredibly easy to make! It requires only 2 cups of vodka, some roasted espresso beans, cocoa nibs and whole coffee beans to make your very own flavoured vodka. No complicated processes or expensive equipment required.
In conclusion, indulge yourself with this coffee-cocoa infused vodka recipe and you certainly would not regret it. The recipe will not only create an unforgettable drinking experience but also allow for flexibility in terms of personalizing it according to palate preferences.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this coffee-cocoa infused vodka recipe:
- 2 cups of vodka (I recommend using a good quality vodka)
- 1/2 cup whole coffee beans
- 1/4 cup cocoa nibs
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped or grated
- 1 tbsp. cocoa powder
Note: You can use either espresso beans or regular coffee beans for this recipe. If you want a stronger coffee flavor, I suggest using espresso beans.
Make sure to use a clean jar to infuse the vodka. A mason jar works great for this recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all of our ingredients, it’s time to make this delicious coffee-cocoa infused vodka.
Step 1: Making the Coffee-Cocoa Infused Vodka
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Firstly, we need to start with some high-quality coffee beans. Grind 2 cups of whole coffee beans into a coarse grind and mix with ½ cup cocoa nibs.
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Combine the coffee and cocoa mixture with 2 cups of vodka in a clean jar, preferably a mason jar.
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Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 48 to 72 hours, shaking the jar every 12 hours or so.
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Once the infusion period is up, strain out the solids from the liquid mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or use a coffee filter.
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Store in an airtight container like a clean bottle or mason jar in the fridge until ready to use.
Step 2: Making Drinks with Coffee-Cocoa Infused Vodka
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To make cocktails from the infused vodka, measure equal parts into a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and add Irish cream liqueur or coffee liqueur for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Another creative way to use your coffee-cocoa infused vodka is by adding it to your favorite coffee drinks like cold brew, iced coffee, and espresso-based cocktails such as the classic Espresso Martini or Irish Coffee.
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Mixologists can also experiment with other flavors such as peppermint hot chocolate or chocolate martinis that use chocolate liqueur and your homemade infusion.
Voila! You now have your very own flavored vodka that will give your drinks that extra kick you’ve been looking for.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to change things up a bit, there are plenty of substitutions and variations for this coffee-cocoa infused vodka recipe. Here are a few ideas to make this drink your own:
– Change up the type of vodka. This recipe calls for a plain vodka, but you can use flavored vodka for an extra kick. Try using chocolate, vanilla or even raspberry flavored vodka.
– Use different coffee beans. While we recommend using whole coffee beans, any type of coffee will work great with this recipe. Experiment with different roasts or blends to find what works best for you.
– Switch out the cocoa nibs. If you don’t have cocoa nibs on hand, try using cocoa powder instead. Be sure to whisk the cocoa powder well into the vodka to ensure it mixes thoroughly.
– Add some spice. Want to give your coffee-cocoa infused vodka a little extra kick? Add some cinnamon, nutmeg or even cayenne pepper to the mix.
– Mix and Match – Create variants of this coffee-cocoa infused vodka by adding other drinks like peppermint hot chocolate, Kahlua or Irish cream liqueur.
The possibilities are endless with this recipe, so have fun experimenting and creating your own unique blends!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this indulgent coffee-cocoa infused vodka, I have some recommendations that are sure to elevate your drinking experience.
Serving Suggestions:
Pour the coffee-cocoa infused vodka into a clean glass over some ice, and sip it slowly to savor the rich and complex flavors. Alternatively, make a classic espresso martini by combining 2 oz of the coffee-cocoa infused vodka, 1 oz of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee, and ½ oz of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds and strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with an espresso bean or shaved dark chocolate.
Pairing Recommendations:
The coffee-cocoa infused vodka complements well with a range of desserts, cheeses, and light snacks. For a decadent treat, pair it with a slice of flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles. The flavors also work wonders with soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert with crackers or crostini. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the infused vodka with fresh oysters on the half-shell to discover the interesting interplay between the briny flavors and the rich coffee-chocolate notes.
For those who prefer mixed drinks, try incorporating this infused vodka recipe in your favorite cocktails for added depth and complexity of flavor. Experiment by mixing it with Kahlua for a touch of sweetness or Irish cream for an indulgent after-dinner drink. And let’s not forget about classic cocktails like the Chocolate Martini or Peppermint Hot Chocolate that can be taken up a level when made with this delectable homemade infusion.
So go ahead and get creative – this versatile vodka recipe can be used in various ways to create easy yet impressive drinks like cold brew or iced coffee topped with whipped cream and cocoa powder on a hot summer day, or simply mixed with soda water for an effortlessly delightful infused vodka soda experience anytime!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve created your irresistible coffee-cocoa infused vodka, you can store it in your fridge or freezer. The alcohol content should prevent it from going bad quickly, but I recommend consuming it within a month or two. A well-closed mason jar provides an adequate seal for storage. Ensure there are no cracks and that it is clean before storing your infused vodka.
One thing to note is that over time some flavors will begin to fade. But don’t worry, just add a few more coffee beans or cocoa nibs if the flavor feels muted.
If you want to make your beverage in advance for a party, you can bottle it in batches and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can use pre-mixed cold brew, either homemade or store-bought for this purpose.
Reheating the infused vodka is not necessary. Instead, try serving it chilled on its own or mixed with other drinks like 360 double chocolate, peppermint hot chocolate, Kahlua, chocolate martini, and Irish cream among others to create enticing new flavors.
To stretch out the shelf life of your coffee-cocoa infused vodka, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight and heat sources as this could potentially spoil the beverage. So keep it in the dar,k cool place until it’s time to serve up those delicious drinks!
Tips for Perfect Results
In order to make the best possible coffee-cocoa infused vodka, you need to keep in mind several key tips. First of all, it is essential to choose the right type of vodka. When it comes to infusing vodka, you don’t want something too cheap, and you don’t want anything too expensive either because the flavors will override. A good-quality, mid-range vodka works perfectly for this recipe.
Furthermore, it’s important to start with a clean jar or container, free from any odors that could affect the final taste of the infused vodka. You may want to sterilize your jars and lids by boiling or placing them in the oven at low temperature for 30-40 min. using a tray cover with parchment paper.
Another tip is to coarsely grind the coffee and cocoa nibs – this helps to release their flavor more efficiently. Adding a small amount of dark chocolate or cocoa powder will further enhance the chocolate flavor.
In addition, patience is key when infusing your vodka – this process takes time and cannot be rushed. Ideally, let your vodka steep with coffee and cacao nibs for at least three days at room temperature before enjoying it.
When it’s time to strain your infused vodka, use cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer so that any small coffee grinds or cocoa nibs are removed. This ensures that your resulting vodka has a smooth texture without any residual bits floating around.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of this recipe. For example, you can add some Irish cream for creamy texture, Kahlua or chocolate liqueur for a sweeter flavor that pairs well with hot cocoa after dinner or use 360 Double Chocolate Vodka instead of plain vodka for an indulgent treat. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using this homemade coffee-flavored and chocolate-infused vodka in cocktails like chocolatini or peppermint hot chocolate martini – which will add rich depth and flavors in every sip.
FAQ
As you prepare to make your own coffee-cocoa infused vodka, there may be some questions that come up along the way. Here are a few frequently asked questions and their answers to help guide you through the process.
How long will coffee infused vodka last?
To create homemade coffee-flavored vodka, simply pour the vodka into a jar and refrigerate it for a maximum of three months. Easy peasy, right?
How to infuse alcohol with coffee?
To make a coffee-infused spirit, start by soaking whole coffee beans in 750 mL of your preferred spirit for a minimum of 24 hours and up to 48 hours. Once the steeping process is complete, strain the infused spirit into its original bottle, eliminating the used coffee beans. To make the most out of your coffee-infused spirit in a cocktail, it is recommended to make a straightforward and spirit-forward drink.
How long do you infuse vodka?
Infusing is a technique of extracting flavor by steeping ingredients in distilled spirits. Vodka, known for its neutral taste, is a preferred base for infusing various flavors. However, it’s important to note that this process is time-consuming, typically taking between three to seven days.
How do you dissolve coffee in vodka?
To make a delectable coffee-infused vodka, gather some wholesome coffee beans and place them into a jar. Fill the jar with vodka until it’s accommodated. Allow it to sit for a duration of one to two weeks without being refrigerated. Once the duration is up, use a strainer to extract the coffee beans from the vodka. I recommend using a coffee-to-vodka ratio of about one to four parts, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Bottom Line
There you have it, my fellow coffee and vodka enthusiasts – the coffee-cocoa infused vodka recipe! This deliciously bold and flavorful drink is sure to spice up your next get-together or quiet night in. With its rich chocolate undertones and robust coffee flavor, this drink will have you feeling like a pro mixologist in no time.
Whether you decide to make this recipe for yourself or share with friends, one thing is for certain: You won’t be disappointed with the results. So go ahead and whip up a batch of this aromatic and satisfying drink today! Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll never want to go back to plain old vodka again.
So grab your coffee beans, cocoa nibs, and of course vodka because it’s time to wake hell up with every sip!
Coffee-Cocoa Infused Vodka Recipe
Recipe is from Food and Wine.
- 2 cups vodka
- 1/4 cup espresso beans, coarsely crushed
- 2 tablespoons cocoa nibs, crushed
- 1.In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vodka with the espresso beans and cocoa nibs. Close the jar tightly and let stand at room temperature for 2 weeks. Strain the vodka through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids. Strain the vodka a second time through a coffee filter into a clean jar and refrigerate for up to 3 months.
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