Crafty Christmas: DIY Coffee Liqueur

Treat your friends and loved ones to some delicious coffee liqueur made by your own fair hands this Christmas.

Not only is it really simple to make but it is also drinkable immediately, which could come in very handy if you have left the Christmas shopping to the last minute this year.

I would recommend making yourself a bottle too, for quality control purposes obviously, and then you can partake in a nice festive White Russian a rather pleasant alternative to Christmas pudding.

Coffee Liqueur (makes approx 750ml)

You will need:

• 500ml espresso coffee
• 300g caster sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 500ml vodka

Make it!

1. Combine coffee and sugar in a pan and bring to the boil. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes until it has reduced by half.

2. Once the coffee syrup has cooled pour into your chosen bottle. Add the vanilla extract and vodka and shake well.

3. The coffee liqueur is ready to drink immediately but the longer you can bear to leave it the better it will taste.

Variations:

If you really can't get your mitts on fresh espresso then you can substitute with instant espresso powder and hot water

If you want a slightly deeper, richer flavour try substituting some of the vodka for brandy, try a 50/50 mix as a good starting point.

Espresso image from wyinoue's flickr photostream.