Cranberry-Lemon Martini

The perfect drink for the holidays--or anytime. Cranberry-infused vodka and limoncello combine to make a bright, refreshing drink. But watch out, folks, it'll knock you up side the head, as they say. Whomever they are.

Note: This recipe requires starting a week ahead. I only started four days ahead, and I think it's working just fine. Even, so the cranberries do need some time to infuse.

Good things come to those who wait.

1 pound fresh cranberries

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups vodka

1 3/4 cup Limoncello

Combine the cranberries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the vanilla extract and cook, stirring, until the cranberries burst, 5 to 6 minutes.

Divide the cranberry mixture between 2 large mason jars. (I put mine in a vodka bottle, but had to push the cranberries in with a chopstick.) Divide the vodka between the jars. Cover and refrigerate for 1 week. Strain out the cranberries. Store the flavored vodka in a clean jar in the refrigerator.

In a martini shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka and Limoncello. Shake well until frothy and strain into chilled martini glasses.

Straining the cranberries from the vodka. Still haven't decided what to do with the boozy berries.