We can’t resist the warm, spicy allure of cinnamon vodka drinks, especially as they blend holiday vibes with a modern twist on classic cocktails. Originating from inventive mixology traditions, these recipes offer a cozy kick that’s perfect for elevating your home bar game.
In our kitchen experiments, we’ve discovered how versatile cinnamon vodka can be, from simple shots to sophisticated sippers. Whether you’re crafting drinks for a gathering or a solo unwind, we’ll guide you through easy, flavorful options that promise to impress.
Ingredients
We rely on fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate our cinnamon vodka drink recipes, ensuring each sip captures the warm, spicy essence of cinnamon in every glass. By preparing these components thoughtfully, we can craft versatile beverages perfect for any occasion.
For Cinnamon Vodka
To infuse our homemade cinnamon vodka, we start with these essential ingredients, listed in the order of preparation for optimal flavor development:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) of high-proof vodka: Use a neutral brand to let the cinnamon shine without overpowering flavors.
- 6-8 cinnamon sticks: Select fresh, aromatic sticks and break them lightly for better infusion; this allows the oils to release more effectively.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (optional): Add if you prefer a sweeter version; dissolve it in a small amount of warm water to create a simple syrup before mixing.
- 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Include for a subtle depth; slit the bean lengthwise if using to expose the seeds.
For The Drinks
For our cinnamon vodka cocktails, we organize the ingredients by drink type, ensuring they’re ready for easy mixing as outlined in the subsequent sections. Here’s what you’ll need for two popular options—a simple cinnamon vodka shot and a cinnamon vodka sour—with quantities scaled for 4 servings each.
| Drink Type | Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Vodka Shot | Cinnamon vodka | 8 oz (2 oz per shot) | Chill in the freezer for a smooth, icy texture. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Shot | Fresh lime juice | 2 oz | Squeeze just before serving for a bright citrus kick. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Shot | Granulated sugar (for rim) | 2 tablespoons | Mix with a pinch of cinnamon and use to rim shot glasses. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Sour | Cinnamon vodka | 8 oz | Shake well with ice for a refreshing blend. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Sour | Fresh lemon juice | 4 oz | Strain for pulp-free results to balance acidity. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Sour | Simple syrup | 2 oz | Prepare by dissolving equal parts sugar and water; adjust for sweetness. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Sour | Egg white (for froth) | 1 large egg white | Use fresh eggs and shake vigorously for a creamy foam. |
| Cinnamon Vodka Sour | Angostura bitters | 4 dashes |
Add last for a aromatic finish that enhances the cinnamon notes.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for cinnamon vodka, let’s guide you through the step-by-step process to create these flavorful drinks. We focus on precision and ease to ensure every sip bursts with warm, spicy notes of cinnamon vodka.
Infusing The Vodka
Infusing your own vodka is key to unlocking bold, aromatic flavors that elevate any cocktail. Follow these detailed steps to prepare a batch using high-proof vodka and cinnamon sticks for a homemade twist.
- Gather your ingredients: Start with 750 ml of high-proof vodka, 4-6 cinnamon sticks (broken into pieces for better infusion), and optional sweeteners like 1/4 cup of sugar or a vanilla pod for added depth.
- Prepare the infusion jar: In a clean 1-liter glass jar, add the cinnamon sticks and any sweeteners. We recommend using a jar with a tight-sealing lid to prevent contamination and ensure even flavor distribution.
- Add the vodka: Pour the 750 ml of vodka over the ingredients, ensuring the cinnamon sticks are fully submerged. Gently stir with a wooden spoon to mix.
- Infuse the mixture: Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 3-7 days. Shake the jar once daily to enhance extraction—taste after 3 days to check flavor; the cinnamon vodka should have a rich, spicy aroma without overpowering bitterness.
- Strain and store: Once infused, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle. Discard the solids and store your cinnamon vodka in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, where it will retain its vibrant, warming essence perfect for cocktails.
Mixing The Drinks
With your infused cinnamon vodka ready, let’s mix up two popular options: simple shots and refreshing sours. These steps use active techniques for quick preparation and vivid flavors that make every gathering memorable.
Cinnamon Vodka Shots
For a straightforward, fiery shot that highlights the spicy kick of cinnamon vodka, prepare as follows:
- Measure ingredients: In a shot glass, pour 1.5 ounces of your homemade cinnamon vodka. For a sweeter variation, add 0.5 ounces of simple syrup.
- Enhance the flavor: Optionally, rim the shot glass with cinnamon sugar by dipping the rim in water then rolling it in a mix of 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for a crisp, sugary contrast.
- Serve immediately: Chill the shots in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving. The result is a bold, warming shot that delivers an invigorating burst of cinnamon spice on the palate.
Cinnamon Vodka Sours
This tart, balanced sour combines the warmth of cinnamon vodka with citrus notes for a sophisticated drink.
- Combine base ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 ounces of cinnamon vodka, 1 ounce fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 ounces simple syrup. We use fresh lemon for its bright, zesty acidity that complements the vodka’s spice.
- Shake vigorously: Seal the shaker and shake for 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy, creating a smooth texture that enhances the drink’s refreshing appeal.
- Strain and garnish: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over fresh ice, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or lemon twist. This produces a vibrant sour with layered flavors—spicy cinnamon upfront, followed by tangy citrus on the finish.
- Adjust to taste: If needed, add a splash more syrup for sweetness or vodka for strength, ensuring each sip is perfectly tailored to your preference.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our cinnamon vodka infusions and cocktails, having the right equipment on hand ensures precision and efficiency in every step. From infusing the vodka to mixing and serving drinks, these tools help us achieve that perfect balance of flavors while maintaining safety and ease.
Essential Tools for Infusion
To create our homemade cinnamon vodka, we rely on basic yet crucial items. Here’s a list of the key equipment:
- Glass jar with a tight-sealing lid: We use a 1-liter or larger jar to hold the vodka and cinnamon sticks, allowing for proper infusion without contamination.
- Fine-mesh strainer: Essential for straining out cinnamon sticks and sediment, ensuring our infused vodka is smooth and clear.
- Funnel: Helps us pour the infused vodka back into bottles without spills, making the process neat and hassle-free.
Tools for Mixing and Serving Drinks
Once our cinnamon vodka is ready, these items make mixing shots and sours straightforward and enjoyable. We’ve organized them below for quick reference:
| Equipment Item | Purpose | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail shaker | For shaking cocktails like cinnamon vodka sours | Ensures thorough mixing for a well-blended, chilled drink with optimal flavor distribution. |
| Jigger or measuring cup | Accurate measurement of ingredients | Guarantees precise ratios, which we know enhances the spicy warmth of cinnamon without overpowering other elements. |
| Shot glasses | Serving shots | Provides consistent 1-2 ounce pours, perfect for quick, social servings that highlight the vodka’s bold taste. |
| Stirring spoon or bar spoon | Gently stirring ingredients | Allows us to blend without over-diluting, preserving the rich, aromatic notes in our drinks. |
By using these tools, we elevate our cinnamon vodka recipes from simple mixes to professional-quality beverages, making every gathering more memorable.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline your cinnamon vodka adventures, we recommend preparing elements in advance so you can enjoy cinnamon vodka drinks effortlessly at gatherings or for a quick evening unwind. This approach builds on our infusion process and recipes, allowing the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon to infuse fully while saving time on the day of serving.
Preparing Infused Vodka Ahead
We suggest starting with the infusion, as it’s the foundation of your drinks. Follow these steps to make it in advance:
- Gather ingredients early: Collect high-proof vodka, cinnamon sticks, and any optional sweeteners like sugar or vanilla. This ensures everything is ready without last-minute rushes.
- Infuse in batches: In a clean glass jar, combine 750 ml of vodka with 4-6 cinnamon sticks. Seal tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 3-7 days, shaking daily to enhance the robust, aromatic flavors.
- Strain and store: After infusion, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove solids, then transfer the vodka to an airtight bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to preserve its fresh, invigorating spice.
For optimal results, here’s a quick reference table on infusion and storage times based on our testing:
| Preparation Step | Recommended Time Frame | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Infusion | 3-7 days | Develops deep, spicy notes |
| Refrigerated Storage | Up to 2 weeks | Maintains flavor potency |
| Room Temperature Hold | Up to 1 week | Convenient for quick access |
Pre-Making Drinks in Advance
Once your infused vodka is ready, we can prepare cinnamon vodka shots or cinnamon vodka sours ahead to capture their vibrant, tingling warmth without fuss.
- For shots: Mix a batch by combining 1 cup of infused vodka with 2 tablespoons of simple syrup in a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then portion into shot glasses just before serving to keep the fiery cinnamon kick fresh and exciting.
- For sours: Prepare the base by shaking 2 ounces of infused vodka, 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 ounces of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a pitcher, cover, and chill for up to 48 hours. This allows the tangy, cinnamon-spiced blend to meld, delivering a smooth, exhilarating taste when poured.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Prioritize refrigeration: Keep infused vodka and pre-mixed drinks in the fridge to lock in their bold flavors and prevent dilution.
- Check for freshness: Before serving, give mixtures a gentle stir and taste for that signature cinnamon zest – discard if any off-flavors develop.
- Enhance presentation: When ready, serve chilled shots in small glasses or sours over ice with a cinnamon stick garnish, letting the enticing aroma elevate the experience for your guests.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the magic of cinnamon vodka drinks and how they bring warmth to any occasion. It’s rewarding to craft these beverages ourselves, turning simple ingredients into standout cocktails that impress friends and family.
As we wrap up, let’s encourage you to experiment with these recipes and make them your own. You’ll discover new favorites that elevate your gatherings and add a spicy twist to everyday moments. Remember, the best drinks come from a bit of creativity and quality effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cinnamon vodka drinks appealing?
Cinnamon vodka drinks blend holiday warmth with modern cocktail creativity, offering versatile options for shots or refined beverages. They’re perfect for social events or relaxation, using fresh ingredients to deliver spicy, flavorful experiences that evoke festive spirits.
How do you infuse vodka with cinnamon?
To infuse vodka, gather high-proof vodka, cinnamon sticks, and optional sweeteners like sugar or vanilla. Place ingredients in a sealed jar and let it sit for 3-7 days, shaking occasionally. Strain for clarity—it’s simple, precise, and results in a rich, spicy flavor ideal for cocktails.
What ingredients are needed for cinnamon vodka shots?
For cinnamon vodka shots, you’ll need infused cinnamon vodka as the base, along with optional sweeteners like sugar and a splash of citrus for balance. Keep it straightforward: mix 1-2 ounces of infused vodka per shot, served chilled for a quick, fiery kick at gatherings.
How do you prepare a cinnamon vodka sour?
Start with 2 ounces of infused cinnamon vodka, add 1 ounce fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 ounces simple syrup. Shake with ice in a cocktail shaker, strain into a glass, and garnish with a cinnamon stick. This easy recipe highlights spicy notes and takes under 5 minutes to mix for a refreshing drink.
What equipment is essential for making cinnamon vodka drinks?
Key tools include a glass jar with a tight lid for infusion, a fine-mesh strainer for filtering, and a funnel for pouring. For mixing, use a cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring cup, shot glasses, and a stirring spoon. These basics help create professional-quality drinks with minimal effort.
Can you make cinnamon vodka drinks ahead of time?
Yes, infuse the vodka 3-7 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Prepare shots or sours a day ahead by mixing ingredients and chilling them. This allows for easy serving at events, maintaining fresh flavors and enhancing presentation for guests.