A DIY Guide For Infusing Cookies In Spirits
Spirit infusions are a remarkably simple addition to your bar offerings that can open up a wide world of flavour possibilities. Generally, things like spices, herbs and fruit are used to infuse different spirits and give them a unique taste, but you can infuse spirits with almost any flavour under the sun.
One of the more whacky avenues of spirit infusions that are becoming more popular in the world of mixology are sugar cookie infusions, where the flavours of different types of cookies are added to alcohols to make drinks that are naturally sweet and with a distinctive hint of your favourite baked goods.
What is a spirit Infusion
Essentially, infusion is a method where you introduce an ingredient with the desired flavour, such as fruit, spices, or herbs, into a liquid, typically spirits or liqueurs, aiming to imbue it with that specific taste. After it’s allowed to sit and all the flavours have melted, the flavouring ingredient is removed, leaving behind a product that can be effortlessly incorporated into cocktails—a syrup or a spirit accentuated by the added flavour.
How To Infuse Spirits With Cookies
The process of infusing spirits with cookies is very similar to how you would do it with any other spice or fruit but with some important differences. Since cookies have a high fat content, it’s important to thoroughly strain and filter the final product for the desired clarity.
Unlike other infusions, cookies and food typically require a shorter infusion time, ranging from 1 to 3 days. Begin tasting after the first day, sampling every 8 to 12 hours until you achieve the desired infusion profile.
Patience is key during the straining process. Initially, filter the mixture through a fine metal sieve, but expect residual particulates in the bourbon. Follow up by lining the sieve with a coffee filter and placing it over a large mixing cup or bowl. Pour in the infusion and allow it to strain through, typically taken overnight with cookies. Cover the top with a plate to minimise alcohol evaporation during this stage.
Sugar Cookie Infused Vodka
This delicately crafted infusion combines the smoothness of vodka with the comforting essence of sugar cookies. Use a high-quality neutral vodka, like Ketel One Vodka which has fresh citrus notes with a touch of honey for a drink that embodies the sweet, buttery notes of freshly baked cookies. The vodka undergoes a meticulous infusion process with sugar cookies, allowing the flavours to meld seamlessly.
Ginger Cookie Infused Tequila
Infused with the warm and spiced character of ginger cookies, this tequila offers a unique and inviting experience. The best tequila for this cookie infusion is a silver tequila like Don Julio Blanco which harmonises with the ginger notes, creating a spirit that is both bold and comforting.
Oatmeal Cookie Infused Blended Scotch
Oatmeal cookies may not always be the most popular biscuits in the tin but they can work wonders when infused into a blended scotch such as Johnny Walker Black Label. The sweet vanilla and smoky notes of the whisky complement the hearty goodness of oatmeal cookies perfectly. The blended Scotch absorbs the nuttiness and subtle sweetness of oatmeal cookies, resulting in a well-balanced spirit.
Lemon Cookie Infused Gin
Infused with the zesty brightness of lemon cookies, this gin delivers a refreshing twist on the classic botanical spirit. Opt for a Juniper forward gin with a less complex botanical profile such as Gordon’s Dry London Gin so that the citrusy notes of lemon cookie perfectly complement the gin's juniper base and create an infusion that’s delicious enough to sip neat or add to your favourite cocktail.
