Learn how to easily make this favorite liqueur at home, without using instant coffee. Use freshly brewed espresso or really strong brewed coffee to give this drink its distinctive flavor.
Mix brewed espresso, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring mixture to a simmer, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, 2 1/2 cups water, 2 cups granulated sugar
Add vodka (or rum) and vanilla, then transfer to a large jar. Let sit for 4-6 weeks so flavors will meld.
750 mL vodka or rum, 3 tablespoons vanilla extract
For gift giving, transfer the coffee liqueur into pretty bottles and tie on a tag with instructions for using it.
Notes
On the coffee: If you have an espresso maker, make enough to net 8 ounces of espresso. To use a coffee maker, brew a batch of coffee that is really strong and use that. Or you could go to your local coffee shop and ask them to brew it for you.
Depending on the size of the bottles or jars you decant this into (I've used upcycled kombucha or small liquor bottles) you'll end up with a handful of containers that make great little gifts. Just add a label and a ribbon and off you go.
Sure, you can let the flavors meld. But really. The kahlua police will not come after you if you start sampling it right away.