In anticipation of the arrival of summer, I began the process of making pineapple infused vodka two weeks ago so that I would have it to serve for late afternoon and evening gatherings. I think it was walking through the produce aisle one day seeing a large display of fresh pineapples that had me thinking about 'thinking ahead'. Before I go any further, I almost feel as if I should have to explain myself for posting two consecutive recipes for cocktails as I don't want you to get the impression that I have become (or worse yet already am) alcohol obsessed. I would prefer to think of myself as someone who is entertaining obsessed. Doesn't that sound better?
I will begin with a warning. Drinking pineapple infused vodka is lethal. Why? Because you will think you are drinking pineapple juice or better yet some version of a kiddie cocktail and misjudge its affect until you are into the second glass. Because you can't stop at just one. This is definitely one of those 'drink at your own risk' recipes.
The first time I had pineapple infused vodka was when a neighbor brought over a bottle as a housewarming present. It was one of the best, most memorable housewarming gifts ever. Nowadays there are so many flavored vodkas available for purchase but nothing compares to the taste of your very own homemade fruit infused flavored vodka.
In order to get the maximum pineapple flavor into the vodka, the fruit and vodka are macerated for 12-14 days. Some recipes will tell you only 1 to 2 days, but the vodka won't take on the depth of pineapple flavor it does when allowing it to sit for almost two weeks. It is the waiting part that is the most difficult aspect of this recipe. If patience is not one of your virtues, well this could be just the recipe to change that.
Sometimes called a Stoli Doli, pineapple infused vodka has been attributed to the Capital Grill as its creator. Obviously they used Stolichnaya Vodka, thus explaining the name, when creating this incredibly delicious fruit infused vodka, but I prefer using Tito's vodka for this recipe. So I guess my version of the Stoli Doli would be called a Tito Doto?
With fresh, ripe pineapples now in abundance at the grocery stores, this is the perfect time of the year to make pineapple infused vodka. I like to make a double batch so that I have plenty on hand or have one to give as a hostess gift. The pineapple is simply peeled, sliced and then cut into chunks. This is a one pineapple to one bottle of vodka ratio recipe. Other than a covered jar and a cool, dark place to let this vodka mascerate, you need nothing else.
Once the 12-14 days have passed, you are now ready to strain the vodka. Because the pineapple is cut into chunks it is easy to strain. I like using a stainer placed over a large measuring cup for easier pouring into a funnel.
The strained vodka is then poured back into the original bottles and stored in the refrigerator. Because the vodka has absorbed the juice of the pineapple, it will freeze if you put it in the freezer. Served chilled in a glass, served with additional fresh pineapple juice and/or topped with some champagne are just some of the pineapple infused vodka serving options.
Recipe
Pineapple Infused Vodka
Ingredients (recipe can be doubled!)
1 bottle of Vodka (recommend using either Tito's or Stolichnaya)
1 fresh pineapple
Directions
1. Cut pineapple into chunks and layer into a large jar (one with a lid or cover).
2. Pour vodka into the jar, seal and place in a cool, dark place for 12-14 days.
3. Strain vodka back into Vodka bottles and chill (I store mine in the refrigerator).
4. Pour 4 ounces into a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake, strain and pour into a martini glass.
5. Optional: Add 2 ounces of fresh pineapple juice to the cocktail shaker. Once shaken, strained and poured, top with champagne.
In college I took a lifesaving class that I would rate as one of the most (physically) brutal classes I had ever experienced. It was a co-ed class and I viewed the instructor as someone who had masochistic tendencies. There were moments I thought I would drown trying to save the 'male drowner' in our practice exercises. In spite of the physical workouts and fear of drowning experienced, I was able to earn my lifeguard certificate. Considering I had a near drowning incident when I was ten, earning the lifeguard certificate was quite an accomplishment for me. So every summer when I am at the beach and see a lifeguard, I remain thankful there was one paying attention when I underestimated the depth of the pool. Whether the lifeguards that come into our life save us from drowning either literally or figuratively, it is always good to know that we fortunate to have people come into our lives that are paying attention.