Indulge in the rich, velvety decadence of homemade Kahlua, a simple and satisfying recipe that combines instant coffee granules, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and vodka for a lusciously boozy coffee liqueur. Perfect for craft cocktail enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike, this DIY version offers a customizable, preservative-free alternative to store-bought options. Ready in just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, this small-batch recipe requires only a bit of patience as it ages to perfection over a few weeks, delivering an intense coffee flavor with sweet and smooth undertones. Store in glass bottles and enjoy its versatility: drizzle it over ice cream, mix it into classic drinks like a White Russian, or sip it straight over ice for a luxurious nightcap. Your go-to guide for crafting Kahlua from scratch, this recipe is sure to be a hit in your home bar repertoire.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves to create a simple syrup. This should take about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the instant coffee granules. Continue stirring until the coffee granules dissolve completely. This should take an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. This step is important so the vanilla extract and vodka do not lose their flavors when added.
Once the coffee syrup has cooled, stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the vodka into the mixture and whisk until fully combined. This will give the Kahlua its signature boozy kick.
Transfer the homemade Kahlua into clean, airtight glass bottles or jars. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2-3 weeks to let the flavors fully meld. Shake the bottle gently every few days during this time.
Once aged, your homemade Kahlua is ready to enjoy! Serve it over ice, use it in cocktails like White Russians, or drizzle it over desserts.
Calories |
2825 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 22 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 415.8 g | 151% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 403.8 g | ||
| Protein | 3.1 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 153 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 3555 mg | 76% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.