Cranberry-Infused Vodka

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups cranberries
• 1 orange rind
• 2 cloves
• 3 cups mid- to low-priced vodka

Cooking directions

1. Combine sugar, water and extract in a saucepan. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a low boil, about 6 minutes. Add cranberries and cook until berries begin to split and liquid turns a light pink, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat and cover. Allow to cool.
2. While liquid is cooling, remove orange rind using a potato peeler. Gently pull skin away from the pith in wide strips. Place rind into a 2-quart wide-mouthed jar with a tight fitting lid. Add cloves. Gently pour cranberry mixture into jar. Add vodka. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for up to two weeks, shaking the bottle gently periodically.
3. Strain contents through metal sieve into a clean bottle for storage. Store in a cool dark place to mellow. Serve in shot glasses or cocktails.