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Place ingredients in a mason jar or glass bottle. Cover tightly and gently shake a few times. Store in a cool, dark place and shake the jar daily. Taste each day until infusion reaches desired intensity, 1 to 4 days for vodka, 2 to 4 days for tequila, and 7 to 10 days for rum. (If the infusion is too intense, you can dilute it to taste with the plain spirit.) Strain through a fine-mesh strainer or paper coffee filter into another clean, airtight glass jar or bottle, and store in the refrigerator.

Recipes

• Basil Vodka
• Habanero Tequila
• Pineapple Rum

The Simplest Simple Syrup
Cocktail recipes often call for simple syrup, which is traditionally made by boiling 1 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water. But here's an easier way—just shake equal parts sugar and water in a tightly sealed glass jar until the sugar dissolves. Presto: instant simple syrup.

More Ways to Use Your Infused Spirits

• Tequila Melon Slushes
• Basil Vodka Lemon Spritzers
• Mojitos with Pineapple Rum
• Pineapple Orange Rum Cocktail