Peppermint Liqueur

By Vanetta

This peppermint liqueur recipe is similar to peppermint schnapps. It's an easy-to-make liqueur that is tasty to mix in hot chocolate and a number of mixed cocktails. This liqueur is festive and perfect for holiday giving.

This liqueur needs to steep for 2 weeks before it can be drunk. So, you need to plan ahead if you want this for a specific occasion or gift.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint oil OR 2 teaspoons peppermint extract (For stronger mint taste, add 3/4 teaspoon of peppermint oil or 3 teaspoons of peppermint extract)
• 3 cups Vodka
• 4-6 drops red or green food coloring (optional)

Preparation

Step 1

--Make sugar syrup: in small saucepan, combine water and sugar; over medium heat, cook until sugar is dissolved and liquid is clear--approx. 5 min. Let cool completely.

--Into a sterile quart jar with tight fitting lid, pour vodka, sugar syrup, and peppermint oil or extract. Stir well. Store in cool, dark place, allowing it to steep for 2 weeks. Turn jar upside down every 2-3 days to mix, or remove lid and stir. Transfer to smaller sterile bottles, if desired.

NOTE: For a sweeter, thicker liqueur, add more sugar syrup.