15.12.2025

This is how homemade cognac is prepared. You won’t notice the difference with a luxury one!

By Vitia

Cognac is a spirit appreciated around the world for its refined flavor and aging process in oak barrels. However, its cost can be high and is not always accessible to all budgets.

Fortunately, there is a way to prepare homemade cognac with simple ingredients and without the need for barrels. By following this recipe, you will achieve a liqueur with an aroma and flavor similar to the best cognacs on the market. Surprise your friends with this homemade version that has nothing to envy to luxury brands!

How to make homemade cognac

To prepare this homemade version of cognac, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • 3 liters of schnapps or vodka (good quality)
  • 2 tablespoons oak bark
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch of cardamom
  • 3 tablespoons sugar

Procedure:

  1. Preparation of the alcoholic base:
    Pour the brandy or vodka into a large glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. It’s important to choose a good quality alcohol, as it will influence the final taste of your homemade cognac.
  2. Add the oak bark:
    The oak bark is essential to provide the woody notes and aromatic complexity of cognac. Add it to the jar with the alcohol.
  3. Add the spices:
    Add the pinch of ground nutmeg and cardamom. These spices will enhance the nuances of the liqueur, providing a slight warm and spicy touch.
  4. Sweeten the mixture:
    Dissolve the three tablespoons of sugar in a little hot water until you get a light syrup. Once ready, pour it into the jar with the other ingredients.
  5. Maceration:
    Close the jar tightly and shake it gently to mix the ingredients. Then, store it in a dark, cool place for at least 15 days. Shake the jar every other day so that the flavors are evenly integrated.
  6. Filtering and bottling:
    Once the maceration time has elapsed, filter the drink with a cloth strainer or coffee filter to remove any traces of bark and spices. Bottle the liquid in clean glass containers and let it sit for at least another week before consuming it. The longer it sits, the better it will taste.

Tips for better homemade cognac:

  • Use a good base alcohol: If you choose a poor quality spirit or vodka, the end result will not be as pleasant. Invest in a quality option to ensure better taste.
  • Try some vanilla: If you want to give it a more sophisticated touch, add half a vanilla bean to the jar during the marination.
  • Lengthens the resting time: Although in 15 days you will have a good homemade cognac, if you let it sit for a month or more, its flavor will be even more refined.
  • Serves as a traditional cognac: Enjoy it in a suitable glass and at room temperature to bring out its aromas and flavors.

With this recipe, you will get a homemade version of cognac with an exquisite flavor and without the need for expensive aging processes. Go ahead and prepare it and surprise with a quality homemade liqueur!



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