Not only is the region famed for it’s wine making but the soil is perfect for growing blackcurrants too. The modern version of the beverage first appeared in 1841, when it displaced " ratafia de cassis", which had been produced in prior centuries. After maceration, prepare the syrup with water and sugar, in which, if you want, you can add lemon peels. I’ve made all sorts of jams and desserts now it’s time to turn them into homemade Cassis (French blackcurrant liqueur).

Blackcurrant Liqueur - Good Housekeeping

When it comes to pairing spirits with blackcurrants, it is important to consider the flavor of the blackcurrant cordial. There is something so satisfying about pouring a drink for your friends and when they lick their lips and enthuse over the amazing taste, you can say proudly that you made it yourself. Pour into a large glass jar and gently smash the currants with the back of a spoon (or the handle of a potato masher! From simple healthy soups to sumptuous cakes for special occasions, all our recipes have been tried and loved by our family and our friends. Homemade blackcurrant liqueur is simple to make, provided you can find a source of fresh blackcurrants.

Play around with ratios to suit your tastes, and try something new by adding grapes and cherries for a ‘Black Forest’ version. They aren’t quite sweet enough to scoff straight from the bush like the strawberries or raspberries.

Homemade Cassis (French blackcurrant liqueur) - Larder Love

In addition to tasting them naturally, they can be used in numerous recipes such as cakes, parfaits and jams, and the preparation of liqueurs.Enjoy it chilled with still or sparkling water, or mix it into something a little stronger if you prefer! I always end up with loads of blackcurrants due to sheer laziness on my part and total disinterest in gardening. I do harvest the frozen berries mid-winter if the birds haven’t picked them off, but if you’ve had a good number of freeze/thaw cycles the berries will be partially fermented. After I have made Jam/Jelly with my blackcurrants, I usually find a few more” hidden away” and make this.

Homemade spiced blackcurrant vodka liqueur - Larder Love Homemade spiced blackcurrant vodka liqueur - Larder Love

I love pulling out a cute little hip flask of this blackcurrant cassis when sat around the campfire with friends. Mixing the liquids while the syrup is still warm could cause the color to become cloudy, although this does not affect the flavor. Where Is My Spoon is a blog where you will find delicious and family friendly recipes, all made from scratch. Might have to start another lot off as daughter has spotted it and asked for a bottle to be included in their xmas hamper (think they would disown me if they didn’t get their hampers every year!Homemade liqueurs also make great gifts and as they have a long shelf life make great wee foodie gifts for Christmas. When the sugar is dissolved, turn it off and let it cool completely before adding it to the alcohol.