Make Your Own Coffee Liqueur

I always wondered what went into coffee liqueurs.  I went in search of ingredients and info, and found a couple of easy-sounding recipes for do-it-yerself coffee liqueur!  How cool is this? 

Coffee Liqueur
(from http://www.recipelink.com/mf/0/1099)
2 cups water
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup dry instant coffee (fresh jar)
1/2 vanilla bean,chopped (or 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract)
1-1/2 cups alcohol*
   *NOTE: Vodka will give you Kahlua, Rum will give you Tia Maria, and Brandy will give you another version of Kahlua. Grain Alcohol will give you a Kahlua like liqueur as well.
Caramel coloring if desired.

Boil the water and sugar until dissolved. Turn off the heat. slowly add dry instant coffee and continue stirring. Add the vanilla to the alcohol, then combine the cooled sugar syrup and coffee mixture to the alcohol mixture. Cover tightly and shake vigorously each day for 3 weeks. Strain and filter (only if you have used vanilla bean)

Yikes.  Three weeks???  I better get started now if I'm going to have something drinkable by Christmas.  I'm thinking, for Christine's Home Blend, a splash of almond and cherry flavorings are in order.  You know how I love almond flavoring.  And cream cheese.  But I guess adding cream cheese would be out of the question.  Heh. 

Comments

[Nancy]

I am interested in making my own kahlua for Christmas gifts and entertaining at my home. I would like to know what is the best way to store it. Does it have to be stored in the fridge? Also, where can I buy some inexpensive bottles.

Thanks

[Kat]

My mother used to make this every year. It is wonderful! I used it in my eggnog and in my coffee and in my...