Homemade Kahlúa Liqueur ☆

According to its manufacturer, Kahlúa originated in Mexico in 1936 and has become the number one selling coffee liqueur in the world. It has become a hero ingredient in many cult cocktails and drinks, such as the White Russian, Espresso Martini, and Mind Eraser.

It is not terribly expensive to buy, so there seems little need to make it yourself, unless you just want to try to bend its flavor to better fit your taste, or you just want the experience of trying it out. The recipe produced here was given to me by my friend Horace Stringham, who has provided me with a number of other recipes found among these pages. His recipe calls for Spice Islands Antigua Instant Coffee, which is no longer available, the trademark having expired in 1987. However, several other Spice Island blends remain on the market that may be found online, and perhaps even in your supermarket.

• 2 oz (by weight) Spice Island Antigua Instant Coffee
• 4 cups <sugar>
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 pint brandy
• 1 vanilla bean

Mix the <sugar> and coffee granules in a pyrex bowl, then stir in the boiling water. Calmly stir for a few seconds until dissolved.

Slice the vanilla bean very thin and put it in a half gallon bottle. Add all other ingredients to the container.

Put a lid on the bottle, give it a vigorous shake, and store it in a dark place. Shake the bottle once a day for 30 days. Do not open the bottle for 30 days.

After it has aged, open and enjoy!