Cream of Cloves Liqueur

Ingredients

• 4 cups High-proof vodka or grain alcohol (95% ABV) (Original recipe calls for 'spirits of wine' which was high-proof alcohol; modern equivalent is 190-proof grain alcohol or Everclear, diluted to about 95% strength, or use high-proof vodka)
• 40 drops Food-grade clove essential oil (Must be food-grade essential oil suitable for consumption)
• 4 cups Simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio) (Make by dissolving equal parts sugar and water)
• 3 drops Yellow food coloring (Optional, for traditional golden color; adjust to desired shade)

Instructions

1. 1If not already prepared, make simple syrup by combining 2 cups sugar with 2 cups water in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. 2Pour the high-proof vodka or grain alcohol into a large glass bottle or jar. Add 40 drops of food-grade clove essential oil. Seal tightly and shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes to thoroughly combine the oil with the alcohol.
3. 3Add the cooled simple syrup to the alcohol and clove oil mixture. Add 3 drops of yellow food coloring (or more to achieve desired golden color). Seal and shake well for 1 minute to fully combine all ingredients.
4. 4Set up a funnel with coffee filters or cheesecloth over a clean glass container. Pour the liqueur through the filter slowly, allowing it to drip through. This may take 15-20 minutes. Change filters if they become clogged.
5. 5Pour the filtered liqueur into clean, sterilized glass bottles. Seal tightly with caps or corks. Label with the date. Store in a cool, dark place. The liqueur is ready to drink immediately but will mellow and improve with age over 2-4 weeks.