coffee liqueur recipe
The Best coffee liqueur recipe
I love that it’s a quick recipe—no fancy equipment needed, just a few simple steps—and it’s a great way to use up leftover coffee grounds. My kids think it’s like a magical potion because it smells so good, and my husband swears it helps with his morning coffee cravings. It’s also a healthier option than many liqueurs, thanks to the natural sugars and antioxidants from the coffee. Whether you’re making a dessert with it, mixing it into a cocktail, or just enjoying it neat, it’s a recipe that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to customize it—add a little vanilla or cinnamon if you like, or skip it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a favorite in our kitchen.
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Classic Coffee Liqueur
A rich, aromatic coffee liqueur made with strong brewed coffee, sugar, and vanilla. Perfect for sipping neat or mixing into desserts.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 1 cup vodka (70 proof)
- 1 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- 1 glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- 1 coffee bean or vanilla pod for decoration (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Brew 2 cups of coffee using a strong filter or 1 tablespoon coffee grounds per cup of water. Cool completely before using. -
2
In a mixing glass, combine the cooled coffee, sugar, vanilla bean seeds, vodka, and bourbon (if using). Stir well. -
3
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean glass jar, pressing gently on the solids to extract all flavors. -
4
Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking gently once a week to mix. -
5
After 2 weeks, taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding a little more sugar or water. Let it age for an additional 4–6 weeks for deeper flavor.
🔧Equipment
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Clean glass jar
- Mixing glass or jar
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Coffee Liqueur Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Coffee Liqueur
1. What is the ideal serving size for this coffee liqueur recipe?
This recipe yields about 16 ounces of liqueur, which serves roughly 6–8 standard cocktails (such as a coffee Old Fashioned or a coffee martini). Adjust quantities if making a smaller batch or a larger batch.
2. Can I substitute any of the vanilla beans for a vanilla extract?
Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of high-quality vanilla extract instead of the whole vanilla bean. Simmer the extract with the coffee liqueur for 5–10 minutes to deepen the flavor before adding it to the mixture.
3. How long should I let the coffee liqueur steep before straining?
Steep the coffee grounds in the liqueur for at least 1 hour, but ideally 2–3 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor extraction. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a smoother result.
4. What if I don’t have a double boiler?
If you lack a double boiler, use a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally to maintain even heat. Avoid boiling the mixture directly.
