Apricot Liqueur

Directions

1. 1
   In a 3-quart stainless steel or enamel saucepan, stir together the apricots and water.
2. 2
   Let stand 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Cover and bring to a boil over medium heat and boil gently 10 minutes.
4. 4
   Remove from heat.
5. 5
   Stir in sugar until dissolved.
6. 6
   Stir in vodka, corn syrup and brandy until well blended.
7. 7
   Cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
8. 8
   Pour fruit and liquid into large, glass container; loosely cover.
9. 9
   Let stand at room temperature at least a week. Drain liquid from apricots; reserve.
10. 10
    In a strainer, place over a bowl, put apricots one layer at a time.
11. 11
    Gently press with back of spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
12. 12
    Reserve apricots. Mix reserved liquid and apricot nectar; strain through four layers of damp cotton cheesecloth.
13. 13
    Store in tightly covered glass container in refrigerator.
14. 14
    Makes about 6 cups.
15. 15
    To make brandied apricots, heat and serve the reserved apricots as a garnish for meats and poultry.
16. 16
    Makes about 1 1/2 cups.