Amy Tobin's recipe for homemade Kahlua

CINCINNATI - Some gifts take time and effort. Others are so simple it’s…..sublime! Homemade Kahlua fits the bill. If you were making it now, it would be ready, already! Because we’re adding flavors (get a good Italian espresso powder if you can) there’s no need to use top shelf vodka.

Homemade Kahlua
Makes 6 cups
3 cups sugar
3 cups water
½ cup instant coffee crystals (use a good Italian espresso powder for best flavor)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups vodka
In a large saucepan combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil; reduce hear and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in coffee crystals and vanilla extract; simmer 5 minutes. Stir in vodka. Let cool. Transfer to bottles.