Coffee Liqueur(Kahlua)

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A homemade coffee liqueur blending rich espresso, sweet sugar, and a splash of vodka for a smooth, aromatic spirit perfect for sipping or cocktails.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups sugar
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 2 oz instant coffee
  • 1 pint vodka
  • 2 1/2 tbsp vanilla

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar and boiling water in a saucepan.
  2. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
  3. Add instant coffee, vanilla, and vodka, stirring to mix.
  4. Pour the mixture into a dark bottle, seal, and store in a cool, dark place for 30 days.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using high-quality coffee or espresso powder instead of instant coffee. You can also adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute. To enhance the vanilla flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of extract. If you prefer a different alcohol base, rum can be an excellent substitute for vodka.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade coffee liqueur over ice or use it as an ingredient in cocktails like a White Russian or Hot Spice Cocktail. It also pairs beautifully with desserts such as chocolate mousse or a rich cake. For a fun twist, mix it into coffee drinks or drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store the coffee liqueur in a cool, dark place, ideally in a dark bottle to prevent light exposure. It will keep well for several months, allowing the flavors to develop further. There's no need to reheat it, as it is best served chilled or at room temperature. Shake well before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coffee Liqueur(Kahlua) contains roughly 1163 calories, with 5g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1163 kcal 58% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.3g 11% DV
Total Fat 16.7g 21% DV
Carbs 175.1g 64% DV
Fiber 10.7g 38% DV
Sugar 94g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 433mg 19% DV
Potassium 844.7mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 87.1mg 97% DV
Calcium 71.6mg 6% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use decaf instant coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free option. The flavor will still be rich and delightful, making it suitable for all occasions without the caffeine kick.

How long does it take for the flavors to develop?

The liqueur should rest for at least 30 days to allow the flavors to meld and mature. However, for even better taste, consider letting it sit for a few months before enjoying it.

Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Absolutely! While vodka is traditional, you can substitute with rum or even whiskey for a unique twist. Each spirit will impart its own character to the liqueur, so feel free to experiment.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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