House Infused Pineapple Vodka Recipe

Prepare the pineapple

Remove top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it upright and slice off the skin, removing as many eyes as possible. Core the pineapple and cut the flesh into 1-inch (2.5 cm) chunks. Measure about 3 to 3 1/2 cups of chopped pineapple (from one medium pineapple).

Sterilize the jar

Select a clean 1-liter (or larger) glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Rinse with hot water and, if desired, pour boiling water into the jar and empty to lightly sterilize. Let the jar cool enough to handle.

Combine ingredients

Place the pineapple chunks in the jar. Add the granulated sugar, split and scraped vanilla bean (if using), and lime zest (if using). Sprinkle the pinch of kosher salt over the fruit. Pour the 750 ml bottle of vodka over the fruit until the pineapple is completely submerged. Seal the jar tightly.

Infuse

Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place at room temperature. Gently invert the jar once or twice daily for the first 2–3 days to help dissolve sugar and distribute flavor. Continue to infuse for 3 to 7 days total, tasting daily beginning on day 3. The vodka will develop a bright pineapple aroma and flavor; stop when the intensity suits your preference (3 days for a light hint, 5–7 days for pronounced pineapple).

Strain and finish

When the desired flavor is reached, strain the vodka through a fine mesh sieve lined with a double layer of cheesecloth (or a coffee filter) into a clean bowl or pitcher. Press gently on the solids to extract liquid but avoid forcing through pulp. Discard the fruit and solids. If you used vanilla bean, you can reserve the scraped pod to steep a short time in the strained vodka for additional aroma (remove after 12–24 hours).

Adjust sweetness and clarify (optional)

Taste the strained vodka. If you'd like it slightly sweeter, dissolve an additional 1–2 teaspoons of granulated sugar into 1–2 tablespoons of warm vodka and stir it back in. For extra clarity, let the infused vodka rest in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then decant carefully from any sediment into a clean bottle.

Bottle and store

Transfer the finished pineapple vodka into a clean bottle and seal. Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate. Properly stored, infused vodka will keep well for 2–3 months; flavor will gradually mellow over time.

Pineapple Vodka Spritz: In a highball glass over ice, combine 60 ml house infused pineapple vodka, 15 ml fresh lime juice and 120 ml club soda. Stir gently and garnish with mint leaves and a thin lime wheel.

Neat or on the rocks: Serve 45–60 ml chilled infused vodka over ice or straight in a chilled shot/rocks glass to showcase the pineapple flavor.

Tasting notes and pairing: The infusion yields bright tropical pineapple with optional warm vanilla and citrus notes. Use in daiquiri-style, tiki, or sparkling cocktails where a clear pineapple character is desired.