We can’t resist the allure of summer flavors, and our peach infused bourbon recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic spirit. Drawing from Southern traditions where juicy peaches meet robust bourbon, this infusion captures the essence of sun-ripened fruit in every sip.
It’s an easy way to elevate your home bar, blending sweet notes with the warmth of aged bourbon. We’ll walk you through the process so you can craft your own batch and impress friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients
To craft our peach-infused bourbon, we start by gathering the key components that bring out its sweet, juicy essence and warm Southern charm. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they are used, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Fresh peaches: 4 ripe peaches (about 1.5 pounds), washed, pitted, and sliced into quarters – these provide the vibrant, juicy flavor that infuses the bourbon with natural sweetness.
- Bourbon: 750 ml of high-quality bourbon (we suggest a 80-proof variety for optimal balance) – poured directly into the infusion vessel to absorb the peach notes.
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, dissolved in 2 tablespoons of warm water to create a simple syrup – added next to enhance the fruit’s sweetness without overpowering the spirit.
- Vanilla bean: 1 whole bean, split lengthwise – included optionally for a subtle, aromatic depth that complements the peaches as the mixture steeps.
- Lemon zest: From 1 medium lemon, grated finely – stirred in last to add a bright, citrusy tang that prevents the infusion from becoming too cloying.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our peach-infused bourbon, let’s gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Having the right equipment on hand makes the infusion straightforward and helps us achieve that perfect blend of flavors.
We recommend the following items, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Glass Infusion Jar (1-liter capacity or larger): A clean, airtight glass jar is crucial for steeping the peaches in bourbon. We prefer one with a wide mouth for easy addition of ingredients and minimal oxidation to preserve the fresh, fruity notes.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Use this to slice the ripe peaches precisely. A high-quality knife ensures clean cuts, allowing maximum flavor extraction without bruising the fruit.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy wooden or plastic board provides a safe surface for prepping peaches and other ingredients. Opt for one that’s easy to clean to maintain hygiene during our infusion process.
- Measuring Cup (at least 1 cup capacity): Accurate measurements are key for bourbon and the sugar solution. We suggest a glass or BPA-free plastic version for precise pouring and to avoid any unwanted flavors.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: This tool is vital for filtering out peach solids and any sediment after infusion, resulting in a clear, smooth bourbon. A strainer with a fine mesh will help us capture even the smallest particles for a professional finish.
- Funnel: A wide-mouthed funnel simplifies transferring the infused bourbon into bottles without spills, keeping our workspace tidy and the process efficient.
With these tools assembled, we’re all set to move forward seamlessly from selecting our ingredients to the actual infusion steps.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our peach-infused bourbon. This process combines simple techniques with vibrant flavors for a homemade spirit that elevates any occasion.
Prepare the Peaches
First, select four ripe peaches as outlined in our ingredients list and rinse them under cool water to remove any residue. Using a sharp chef’s knife on a stable cutting board, slice each peach in half to remove the pits then cut them into thin wedges to maximize flavor extraction and surface area.
For added zest, grate the zest from one lemon directly over the peach slices to infuse a bright citrus note that complements the sweetness. Arrange the prepared peaches in a clean glass infusion jar, ensuring they are evenly distributed for optimal bourbon contact—we recommend aiming for about 2 cups of sliced peaches to fit the 750 ml batch size.
Infuse the Bourbon
Once the peaches are ready, pour 750 ml of high-quality bourbon into the glass jar over the fruit slices. Add 1/4 cup of dissolved granulated sugar and, if desired, one split vanilla bean to enhance the infusion with its aromatic depth.
Secure the jar’s lid tightly and gently shake it to blend the elements, allowing the sweet peach essence to mingle with the bourbon’s warm undertones—envision the rich, fruity aromas developing over time. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 7 to 10 days, shaking it daily to promote even flavor infusion; a simple daily shake for 10 seconds works best to avoid over-agitation.
| Infusion Duration | Recommended Shaking Frequency | Expected Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| 7 days | Once daily | Subtle peach notes |
| 10 days | Once daily | Bold, fully infused taste |
Strain and Bottle
After the infusion period, place a fine-mesh strainer over a clean bowl and carefully pour the bourbon mixture through it to separate the solids from the liquid, capturing the clear, golden elixir infused with peach’s sweet tang.
For a smoother finish, line the strainer with cheesecloth and press lightly on the peach solids to extract any remaining flavorful juices without introducing bitterness. Using a funnel, transfer the strained bourbon into a sterilized bottle, seal it tightly, and store in a cool place—note the vibrant, sun-kissed hue and the inviting scent of ripe peaches and vanilla that signals a successful batch. Label your bottle with the preparation date for tracking, and let it rest for at least 24 hours before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To elevate your peach-infused bourbon experience, we recommend planning ahead to allow flavors to fully develop and ensure it’s ready for your next gathering. Building on our infusion process, which involves a 7- to 10-day wait, here are detailed steps for preparing this delightful spirit in advance. This approach lets you create a signature bourbon that’s perfect for impressing guests or stocking your home bar.
Planning Your Infusion Timeline
First, consider the timeline for optimal flavor. We suggest starting the infusion at least 7 days before you plan to serve it, accounting for the initial preparation, daily shaking, and a final 24-hour rest after straining. For larger events, scale up your batch by multiplying the ingredients proportionally—use the table below to guide batch sizes based on your needs.
| Batch Size | Peaches (number) | Bourbon (ml) | Sugar (cups) | Infusion Time (days) | Expected Yield (ml) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 4 | 750 | 1/4 | 7-10 | 700 |
| Medium | 8 | 1500 | 1/2 | 7-10 | 1400 |
| Large | 12 | 2250 | 3/4 | 7-10 | 2100 |
Storing and Extending Shelf Life
Once you’ve strained and bottled your infused bourbon as outlined earlier, store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its vibrant peach notes and warm bourbon undertones. We advise using airtight bottles to maintain freshness—aim for a storage temperature between 50°F and 70°F to prevent flavor degradation.
- Short-term storage: Keep the bottled bourbon for up to 3 months in a pantry. Shake gently before serving to redistribute any settled flavors.
- Long-term storage: For batches made well in advance, transfer to smaller bottles and refrigerate for up to 6 months. This slows oxidation and keeps the citrusy tang from the lemon zest prominent.
- Freezing option: If you’re making a large batch, portion some into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 1 year frozen, but thaw slowly in the fridge to avoid diluting the rich, fruity aroma.
Additional Tips for Success
To make ahead seamlessly, we encourage prepping ingredients early. For instance, wash and slice your peaches up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge to retain their juicy sweetness. If adding a vanilla bean, split it ahead of time and keep it wrapped to preserve its aromatic depth.
Finally, label each bottle with the preparation date and infusion details, such as “Infused on [date] for 10 days.” This ensures you track multiple batches and maintain consistency in your home bar rotations.
Conclusion
We hope this peach-infused bourbon brings a fresh twist to your gatherings
and everyday sips. It’s a simple way to elevate your home bar with natural flavors.
Let’s raise a glass to your new favorite infusion
and the endless possibilities it unlocks. Cheers to crafting memories together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is peach-infused bourbon?
Peach-infused bourbon is a homemade spirit that blends the sweet, juicy flavors of ripe peaches with high-quality bourbon, drawing from Southern traditions. It’s a simple way to elevate your home bar, creating a warm, aromatic drink perfect for gatherings.
What ingredients are needed for peach-infused bourbon?
You’ll need four ripe peaches, 750 ml of high-quality bourbon, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar dissolved in warm water, one optional split vanilla bean for added aroma, and lemon zest for a citrusy twist. These ingredients enhance the bourbon’s natural sweetness and flavor.
What equipment is required to make peach-infused bourbon?
Essential tools include a glass infusion jar for steeping, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping peaches, a measuring cup for accuracy, a fine-mesh strainer for filtering, and a funnel for bottling. These ensure a smooth and professional process.
How do I make peach-infused bourbon?
Start by rinsing and slicing four ripe peaches, then add them to a jar with 750 ml bourbon, sugar syrup, optional vanilla bean, and lemon zest. Seal and shake daily for 7-10 days to infuse flavors. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer, bottle, and let rest 24 hours before serving.
How long does the infusion process take?
The infusion typically takes 7 to 10 days, with daily shaking to extract flavors fully. Plan ahead and start at least a week before you need it for optimal taste at gatherings.
How should I store peach-infused bourbon?
Store in a cool, dark place in an airtight bottle. It lasts several months at room temperature, longer in the fridge, or up to a year if frozen. Always label with the date for tracking.
Can I customize the peach-infused bourbon recipe?
Yes, you can tweak it by adjusting sugar for sweetness, adding more vanilla for depth, or experimenting with other fruits. Stick to fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results, and scale the batch size for your gathering.