Gran Marnier-Style Liqueur

Plan ahead and make more than one batch of this orange-flavored liqueur to give as gifts for the holidays or special occasions.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/3 cup orange zest*
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups cognac or French brandy
1/2 teaspoon glycerine**

Cooking Directions:

1. Place zest and sugar in a small bowl. Mash together with the back of a wooden spoon or pestle. Continue until sugar is absorbed into zest. Place in aging container. Add cognac and glycerine. Stir, cap and age in a cool, dark place 2 to 3 months. Shake monthly.
2. After initial aging, strain and filter. Stir with a wooden spoon to combine. Cap and age 3 months more before serving.

Makes about 1 pint.

*Seville oranges produce the authentic taste but any type of orange peel/zest may be used with good results.

**Glycerine is a colorless, odorless, syrupy liquid used to retain moisture and add sweetness to foods. It also helps prevent sugar crystallization, the reason for its use this particular recipe.