There’s nothing cozier or classier than an after-dinner cocktail by the fire on a cold winter’s night. And whether you are preparing drinks for a crowd or simply looking to sweeten up a simple night in, our homemade crème de menthe is a garden-fresh digestif that’s sure to please.
Traditionally, crème de menthe is a neon green concoction that belongs on a spaceship as much as in a coup glass. This recipe omits artificial ingredients and coloring, opting instead for fresh, home-grown mint and a touch of simple syrup for sweetness. It totally changes the way we think about liqueurs.
Plan ahead. If you want to serve this at tonight’s dinner party, you are, unfortunately, out of luck. Mint leaves steep directly into vodka overnight, so you’ll need to get started on this at least one day in advance.
Pick the right vodka. The vodka you pick as the base determines the flavor of your finished product. Be sure that you’re picking something nicer (we recommend Tito’s) for a smooth and satisfying finish.
Patience is key. Take your time! Aside from the overnight steeping, you will need to let your syrup cool completely before adding it into your vodka. Adding it in too early will lead to a funky taste (and potentially a funky texture). You should also let it sit in the fridge for a few hours if you plan on serving it cold. Serve creatively. This recipe is good enough to enjoy on its own, but that doesn’t mean you have to! We recommend adding a splash to some hot chocolate or serving with club soda for a fun and festive beverage.
5
servings10
minutes6
hours560
kcal750 milliliters vodka
1 ¼ cups fresh mint, divided
1 cup water
1 ½ cups sugar
¼ cup fresh mint
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