Harris Kahlua

Prep: 120 min

A rich and creamy coffee liqueur with bold coffee flavor and smooth vodka notes, perfect for dessert cocktails or a cozy after-dinner drink.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup instant coffee
  • 1/2 vanilla bean
  • 2 to 3 cups hot water
  • 1 quart vodka

Instructions

  1. Add sugar, instant coffee, and vanilla bean to 2 or 3 cups of hot water. Shake well.
  2. Let the mixture set until the sugar and coffee are well dissolved, about 1 to 2 hours.
  3. Add vodka to the mixture and stir well.
  4. Can be enjoyed plain or filled into a glass with ice, then add 1/3 Kahlua and top with milk.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using high-quality instant coffee or even freshly brewed coffee if you prefer. If you don't have a vanilla bean, substitute with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Ensure the water you use is hot enough to dissolve the sugar and coffee completely, as this will enhance the final taste. Experiment with different spirits like rum for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Harris Kahlua over ice for a refreshing drink or mix it into cocktails for added depth. It pairs beautifully with desserts like chocolate cake or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a simple yet delightful pairing, enjoy it alongside a slice of cake or with a dash of Betty'S French Salad Dressing(In Memory Of Betty Schneider) for a surprising savory contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container or a sealed bottle in a cool, dark place. The mixture can last for several months, but for the best flavor, consume it within a few weeks. To serve, simply pour over ice and mix as desired; no reheating is necessary.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Harris Kahlua contains roughly 1281 calories, with 1g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

1281 kcal 64% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 31.7g 41% DV
Carbs 218.3g 79% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 157.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 793.7mg 35% DV
Potassium 284mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 21.8mg 24% DV
Calcium 15.7mg 1% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit 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 decaffeinated coffee for this recipe?

Yes, decaffeinated coffee works well in this recipe if you're looking to reduce caffeine intake. The flavor will still be robust, and you can enjoy the drink without the jitters.

How can I adjust the sweetness of Harris Kahlua?

To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or add more vodka to balance the flavors. Consider tasting the mixture before adding the full amount of vodka to find your preferred level of sweetness.

Is there a way to make a vegan version of Harris Kahlua?

The recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it doesn’t contain any animal products. Just ensure that the vodka you use is labeled vegan, and you can enjoy this delicious treat without any concerns.

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).

Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →