Infused Vodka

"Maceration" may sound like something dangerous, but it's simply what happens when a flavor is steeped into a fluid. If you're using the process to add flavor to your vodka, it's given the much cooler name of "infusion." Vodka distillers have caught onto the craze and if you look on the shelves at the local liquor store you will see Cake Batter Vodka and Marshmallow Vodka to name just a couple. With a well-sealed bottle, vodka and some flavor ingredients, anyone can create their own signature flavored spirit that makes a lovely gift at the holidays.

to make your own flavored vodka you will need

• vodka: any brand will do
• flavorings: lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit rind. Fresh pineapple slices, mint, ginger, vanilla beans or even garlic can be interesting. And for the more adventurous, a jalapeno or chili pepper.
• bottle: any bottle that can be sealed is fine