If you're a fan of rich, aromatic liqueurs, this homemade coffee liqueur will be your new favorite. It's a delightful concoction that marries the boldness of coffee with the warmth of rum, perfect for sipping or mixing. Let's get started!
Coffee: The star of the show, bringing depth and richness. Opt for a strong brew to ensure the flavor shines through.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the liqueur, balancing the bitterness of the coffee.
Dark Brown Sugar: Adds a molasses-like richness and depth, complementing the coffee and rum.
Dark Rum: Provides warmth and body, infusing the liqueur with its signature boozy kick.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a smooth, mellow note.
This liqueur is fantastic on its own over ice. Try adding a splash to your coffee for an adult twist or drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It also mixes beautifully into cocktails like White Russians or Espresso Martinis.
Start by brewing 4 cups of strong coffee. If you have a favorite roast, use that to make it more personal. Let the coffee cool to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the sugars from caramelizing too quickly in the next step.
In a large saucepan, combine the cooled coffee with 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of dark brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly to help the sugars dissolve and blend into a smooth syrup. Once fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely.
When your coffee syrup is cool, stir in 2 cups of dark rum and 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined, and then pour the mixture into a clean bottle or jar. Seal it tightly to prevent any flavor loss.
To mature the liqueur, store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks. This allows the flavors to meld and develop. Give the bottle a good shake every now and then to ensure everything stays mixed.