Christmas pudding vodka

• blackcurrant↗300g g
• raisins↗100g g
• prunes↗50g g
• sour cherries↗50g g
• orange and 1 lemon1

  zest peeled

• dark brown sugar↗150g g
• mixed spice½ tsp tsp
• cinnamon stick↗1
• vanilla pod↗1

  split lengthwise

• vodka↗1 litre l
• brandy↗25ml ml
• amaretto↗25ml ml

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Spread a 1.5‑liter sterilized jar. Transfer the dried fruit, citrus zest, sugar, spices and the vanilla pod into the jar.

2. 2

   Pour half of the vodka into the jar. Close the lid, then turn the jar upside down and shake well so the sugar distributes evenly. Remove the lid and add the remaining vodka, brandy and amaretto.

3. 3

   Close the jar again and store it in a cool, dark place, shaking daily for the first week. After two‑three weeks, strain the vodka through a sieve lined with coffee filters or clean kitchen cloth. Use the soaked fruit in festive baked goods such as fruit cake, pudding or mince.

4. 4

   Transfer the strained vodka into sterilized bottles and label them. The vodka will keep for up to two years, but will be best during the first six months.