Homemade Coffee Vodka Liqueur
A rich and sweet homemade coffee liqueur that rivals store-bought brands. This DIY infusion combines instant coffee, vanilla, and vodka into a syrupy delight perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into cocktails like White Russians.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by roasted coffee and a distinct scent of raw vanilla. The taste starts with intense sugary sweetness followed immediately by the earthy bitterness of concentrated coffee. The mouthfeel is thick and viscous, while the finish is long with a drying alcoholic heat and lingering bean notes.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Water2 ml
- White Sugar2 ml
- Instant Coffee0.5 ml
- Vanilla Bean0.5 wholes
- Vodka1.5 ml
- Caramel Coloring1 dash
- Glycerine (Optional for smoothness)1 tsp
Preparation
- 1
Combine water and white sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- 2
Turn off the heat. Slowly add the dry instant coffee to the syrup and stir continuously until fully dissolved.
- 3
Allow the sugar and coffee mixture to cool completely to room temperature to prevent alcohol evaporation later.
- 4
Chop the vanilla bean and add it to the vodka.
- 5
Combine the cooled coffee syrup with the vodka and vanilla mixture.
- 6
Add a dash of caramel coloring if desired.
- 7
Pour the mixture into a sealable container, cover tightly, and store for 3 weeks.
- 8
Shake the container vigorously once each day during the aging process.
- 9
After 3 weeks, strain and filter the liqueur to remove the vanilla and any sediment.
- 10
Optional: Stir in the glycerine to create a smoother mouthfeel before bottling.
Substitutions
- Instant CoffeeCold Brew Concentrate — This provides a smoother, less acidic coffee flavor and a richer body.
- White SugarDemerara Sugar — Demerara adds a subtle toffee-like depth that complements the roasted coffee notes.
- VodkaBourbon — Using bourbon introduces notes of oak, caramel, and corn sweetness to the base.
- Vanilla BeanVanilla Extract — A teaspoon of extract provides a similar flavor profile if fresh beans are unavailable.
Variations
Mocha Liqueur
Add two tablespoons of roasted cocoa nibs during the three-week aging process for a chocolate-forward profile.
Spiced Espresso Liqueur
Infuse the vodka with a cinnamon stick and two star anise pods to add warmth and spice complexity.