make your own kahlua (or other infused liquor)

In order to celebrate the season the best way I know how, I'll be posting the 12 Days of DIY December here. Check back every day for something new to make, bake, or create to get ready for Christmas!

Infused vodka is a delicious addition to any holiday party bar, and it's so easy to make some to enjoy and to give. Forget the cloying fake fruit flavors you get off the shelf - make this one a DIY project and enjoy the delectable fruits of your labor in the year to come.

There are a lot of great recipes and tutorials online for infusing spirits with fruit, herbs, and even bacon, so I thought I'd focus on a recipe I've had success with: DIY Kahlua. It's true - you can make your own delicious coffee liqueur, perfect to add to hot cocoa, coffee, or any other seasonal beverage. This one needs to sit for two weeks, which is why I'm sharing it first! If you plan to make a batch or two to give out (or serve), get started now.

Kahlua
From a vintage homemade cookbook, "Favorite Recipes and Restaurants"

4 cups sugar
3 cups water

Boil 20 mins and let cool.

2 oz instant coffee
1 cup boiling water

Mix and let cool.

1 quart vodka
1 vanilla bean

Split bean lengthwise and mix everything together. Shake well. Let stand 2 weeks at room temperature before using. Shake once a day during the two weeks.

Strain out the vanilla bean once you're ready to decant the kahlua.

Use a funnel to pour your liqueur into some pretty bottles, like these from the Container Store. Add a label and maybe a bow, and you have a lovely and delicious DIY gift for any of the adults on your list! This would pair great with a cocoa kit (coming soon!)

Be prepared for everyone to be super impressed when you shrug and say "Oh yeah, I made kahlua from scratch for Christmas this year" - and then to reassure them that you didn't build a still of some kind out on your deck. It's just the magic of infusion!