Kaluha-Make Your Own!!

Create a sophisticated, coffee-infused spirit at home with this simple infusion recipe. By combining high-proof vodka with a robust sugar syrup and instant coffee, you achieve a smooth, sweet liqueur reminiscent of popular commercial brands. The addition of real vanilla bean seeds adds depth and complexity, elevating the flavor profile far beyond store-bought options. This batch is perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying as a digestif. Allow ample time for the flavors to meld, resulting in a creamy, aromatic treat that pairs beautifully with cream or serves as a standout ingredient in dessert cocktails.

Cooking Method: Boiling

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Drinks

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 3

Calories: 892.1

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

Create a sophisticated, coffee-infused spirit at home with this simple infusion recipe. By combining high-proof vodka with a robust sugar syrup and instant coffee, you achieve a smooth, sweet liqueur reminiscent of popular commercial brands. The addition of real vanilla bean seeds adds depth and complexity, elevating the flavor profile far beyond store-bought options. This batch is perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying as a digestif. Allow ample time for the flavors to meld, resulting in a creamy, aromatic treat that pairs beautifully with cream or serves as a standout ingredient in dessert cocktails.

Ingredients

3/16 Vodka
3 1/2 cup White sugar
1/2 ounce Jar instant coffee
1 ea Vanilla bean*
3 ea Clean bottles

Directions

1
Split the vanilla bean lengthwise into three equal pieces.
2
In a saucepan, combine 3 cups of boiling water with the white sugar, stirring until fully dissolved to create a simple syrup.
3
In a separate container, dissolve the instant coffee in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until smooth.
4
Allow both the sugar syrup and coffee mixture to cool slightly to room temperature.
5
Combine the cooled sugar syrup, coffee mixture, and vodka in a large mixing bowl or pitcher. Stir well to integrate.
6
Secure one piece of the vanilla bean to a silk thread or string so it can hang freely.
7
Divide the liquid mixture evenly among the three clean bottles.
8
Lower one vanilla bean piece into each bottle, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
9
Seal the bottles tightly with corks or caps.
10
Store the bottles in a cool, dark place for at least 3 weeks to allow the flavors to infuse.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 3

Amount Per Serving
Calories 892.1kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 4.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 225.8g76%
Dietary Fiber 8.2g33%
Sugars 213.0g
Protein 3.0g6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure bottles are thoroughly washed and completely dry before use to prevent contamination or dilution.

The liqueur improves with age; letting it sit for 4-6 weeks can yield a smoother, more integrated flavor profile.

If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, increase the amount of instant coffee slightly, but be mindful of bitterness.

Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve before serving if you wish to remove the vanilla bean pieces, though leaving them in adds visual appeal.

This homemade version is shelf-stable due to the high alcohol and sugar content, but refrigeration after opening is recommended for best quality.

Keywords: coffee liqueur, homemade kaluha, vodka infusion, vanilla bean, coffee syrup, homemade liqueur, coffee vodka, vanilla infusion, sweet coffee, batch cocktails, coffee flavoring, spirit infusion

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/kaluha-make-your-own/