Homemade Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa-Style)

coffee liqueur drink in a glass coffee mug

Homemade Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa-Style)

Rich coffee, vanilla, cocoa, and vodka come together to create a smooth, homemade coffee liqueur that's perfect for sipping, mixing into cocktails, or gifting during the holidays. After a week of mellowing, the flavors become deep, rich, and wonderfully balanced.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American, Homemade

Diet Vegetarian

Keyword coffee cocktail recipe, DIY coffee liqueur, edible gifts, espresso liqueur, holiday gift recipe, homemade coffee liqueur, homemade cordial, homemade Kahlúa

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Infusing Time 8

Total Time 8 15

Servings

Calories 58kcal

Equipment

Large bowl or measuring pitcher
Small knife
Wooden spoon or whisk
Funnel
Two sterilized bottles or jars with lids

Ingredients

¼ vanilla bean
1 fifth 750 ml vodka (about 3 cups)
2 cups boiling water
⅓ cup good-quality instant coffee or espresso powder
2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup light corn syrup
2 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and place it in the vodka. Cover and let infuse for 24 hours.
In a large bowl or measuring pitcher, pour the boiling water over the instant coffee or espresso powder. Cover and let stand for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in the cocoa powder, sugar, and corn syrup until completely dissolved.
Allow the coffee mixture to cool to room temperature.
Remove the vanilla bean from the vodka if desired, or leave it in for additional flavor.
Combine the cooled coffee mixture with the infused vodka and stir well.
Pour into clean, sterilized bottles or jars with tight-fitting lids.
Let the liqueur mellow in a cool, dark place for at least one week before serving.

Notes

Espresso powder creates a richer, more robust coffee flavor than regular instant coffee.
Leaving the vanilla bean in the bottle while it ages will deepen the vanilla flavor.
The liqueur becomes smoother and more balanced after several weeks of aging.
Makes an excellent homemade holiday or hostess gift.

Recipe Tips

Use a high-quality vodka for the smoothest flavor.
Be sure the coffee mixture has cooled before combining it with the vodka.
Shake the bottle gently before serving if any natural settling occurs.

Storage

Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark pantry or liquor cabinet. Homemade coffee liqueur keeps well for several months. Refrigeration is optional but not required.

Nutrition