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Orangecello

This intensely flavored liqueur captures everything you love about fresh oranges and transforms it into a silky, sippable spirit.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 750 ml high-proof vodka 100 proof or higher, ideally 151 proof
  • 8 to 10 large organic oranges with thick skins
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups filtered water

Equipment

  • 750 ml glass bottle with tight-fitting lid
  • Vegetable peeler or microplane
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Cheesecloth
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Large glass jar for infusion
  • Funnel

Method
 

  1. Select 8 to 10 thick-skinned organic oranges and wash them thoroughly.
  2. Using a vegetable peeler or microplane, remove only the colored zest from the oranges, avoiding the white pith.
  3. Place all the orange zest in a large, dry glass jar that holds at least two cups.
  4. Pour 750 ml of high-proof vodka over the zest, stir gently to ensure contact, then seal the jar.
  5. Store the jar in a cool, dark place and shake gently every few days. Infuse for six weeks.
  6. After six weeks, line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth and strain the infused vodka into a large bowl without pressing the zest.
  7. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups filtered water and 2 cups granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  8. Slowly pour the cooled simple syrup into the strained infused vodka while stirring to combine.
  9. Using a funnel, bottle the orangecello in a clean 750 ml bottle, seal tightly, and let it age in a cool, dark place for at least one week before serving.

Notes

Serve chilled as a digestif, mix into cocktails, or drizzle over desserts.