Homemade Kahlua

author unknown

This recipe is so close in taste to the expensive brand name, that I can't tell the difference. Pour it into pretty bottles or jars with decorated lids and it makes an excellent and inexpensive gift. Provide recipes for its use if you like. Some people just enjoy it over ice cream, rather than as a drink. Add a bit to your coffee for a taste treat.

5 Cups of sugar
8 Cups of water (Divided)
1 Cup instant coffee crystals
3 whole vanilla beans

Stir together 5 cups of sugar and 6 cups of water. Boil hard for approximately 20 minutes. Pour into a one gallon glass jar. Then mix 1 cup of instant coffee into 2 cups of boiling water and add to the above. Split 3 vanilla beans and add them. Allow it to cool and then add 1.75 liters of vodka. Place cap on jar tightly and store in a dark place. Allow to mature for at least two weeks, but four weeks is better. Remove the vanilla beans and pour contents into containers of your choice.