Homemade Coffee Liqueur is rich, smooth, and deeply flavorful—perfect for sipping over ice or mixing into cocktails and desserts. It has that classic coffee liqueur taste but with a deeper, fresher flavor thanks to the brewed coffee and real vanilla. Once you try this homemade version, store-bought won’t cut it.
The process is surprisingly simple. You make a strong coffee syrup, stir in vanilla, add high-proof alcohol, and let it mellow for a week or two. The longer it rests, the smoother it gets. It also makes a great DIY gift for the holidays, especially when poured into a cute bottle with a label.
Helpful Tips
- Use strong, dark coffee. It gives the liqueur a bold base that stands up to the sugar and alcohol.
- Don’t rush the resting period. One week is the minimum, but two to three weeks will mellow out the flavor beautifully.
- Sterilize your bottles. This helps extend the shelf life and keeps the liqueur tasting fresh.
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Homemade Coffee Liqueur
Ingredients
- 7½ cups strong brewed dark coffee
- 1¼ pounds light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 750 ml Everclear 120 proof
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the coffee and brown sugar. Stir over low heat until the sugar is fully dissolved. Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the Everclear and mix thoroughly.
- Pour into sterilized bottles or jars. Seal tightly.
- Let it rest for at least 2 weeks in a cool, dark place to mellow.
Notes
- We used these 11 ounce swing top clear glass bottles and this recipe made 8 bottles.
Nutrition
Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.