Blackberry Liqueur Recipe: A Delicious Homemade Digestive

Blackberry Liqueur is a rich, fruity homemade digestif that blends the deep sweetness of ripe blackberries with smooth alcohol and subtle hints of vanilla. Ideal for sipping after dinner or gifting during the holidays, this DIY liqueur is easy to make at home—and it only gets better with time.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Intensely fruity with a smooth, velvety finish
• Naturally flavored with real blackberries and vanilla
• Great for cocktails, desserts, or sipping neat
• A thoughtful homemade gift that feels gourmet
• No preservatives or additives—just simple, quality ingredients

What Is Blackberry Liqueur?

Blackberry liqueur, also known as liqueur de mûre, is a traditional fruit-based alcohol made by macerating blackberries in pure alcohol, then blending it with homemade syrup. The result is a richly colored, slightly syrupy digestif with bold berry flavor and a hint of spice from vanilla. It’s popular across Europe and often used in desserts, cocktails, or served on its own.

Cooking Tips

• Use ripe, fresh blackberries for the best color and flavor. Avoid underripe fruit, which can taste sour.
• Let it rest: The longer the liqueur rests after mixing, the more developed the flavor.
• Use glass jars or bottles with airtight lids to prevent contamination.
• Don’t skip straining: For a smooth texture, strain both the liquid and purée thoroughly.
• Add a cinnamon stick during maceration if you like a spiced version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Blackberries?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them before starting the maceration process.

How Long Does Homemade Blackberry Liqueur Last?

When stored in sterilized glass bottles in a cool, dark place, it can last up to 1 year.

Is Pure Alcohol at 95° Necessary?

Yes, for best preservation and flavor extraction. However, you can use vodka (at 40%) as a substitute—just reduce the water slightly to balance the dilution.

Can I Make This Without Vanilla?

Absolutely. The vanilla adds warmth, but the liqueur is still delicious without it.

How Can I Use Blackberry Liqueur?

It’s great in cocktails (try it in a Kir cocktail), drizzled over ice cream, in cakes, or simply served chilled after dinner.

How to Store

Store the blackberry liqueur in sterilized glass bottles with tight-sealing lids. Keep in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. For the best flavor, let it rest for an additional 2–3 weeks after bottling. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 6 months.

How to Freeze

Freezing is not recommended, as the alcohol content prevents proper freezing and may alter texture. Instead, store in small glass bottles if you're making large batches—this way, you can open one at a time while the others stay sealed and fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Place blackberries in a large airtight glass jar. Add the vanilla pod and pour alcohol over the berries until fully covered. Seal and let macerate at room temperature for 10 days.

In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, until it forms a light syrup. Let cool completely.

After 10 days, strain the alcohol mixture using a fine mesh strainer, reserving the liquid.

Blend the leftover blackberries with an immersion blender. Strain the purée through the same fine mesh strainer to extract as much juice as possible.

Combine the strained fruit liquid with the reserved alcohol and the cooled sugar syrup. Return the mixture to the jar and let it rest for 15 more days.

Funnel the finished liqueur into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly. Enjoy after dinner, or store for gifting.