Homemade Kahlua
The recent post about limoncello got me thinking about trying homemade Kahlua too. It seems to me that brown sugar rather than white would work with the coffee, and I'd like to use real coffee beans or ground coffee rather than instant. What do you think? There are a zillion recipes out there, but some sound crazy-sweet, or just crazy. I'd prefer a "serious eats" screened version. Thanks for any ideas.
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3 Comments:
I make it every year and have twisted the 70's recipe to make it a bit stronger.
I prefer white sugar, as the brown tends to get more syrupy than I like and I don't like the taste as much. Maybe try some raw sugar instead? You can cut the amount of the syrup back or add more alcohol so it is less sweet.
I always use about a third more vodka above what is called for so it is less dessert-sauce and more cocktail.
If you use real coffee, you have to make some seriously strong espresso to make it have the same flavor punch. If someone has a good way to do it other than brewing super-espresso (or the instant that is usually called for and I use) I would love to hear it.
I also use real vanilla beans rather than extract and have found that makes a difference in the taste.
Good luck!
sadiepix at 10:37PM on 10/16/09
Thanks Sadiepix. Good ideas about the brown sugar and vanilla. I'll start experimenting!
pourgirl at 1:21PM on 10/18/09
REAL (ALMOST) KAHLUA RECIPE
We usually start this on a Friday night & blend the next day. Makes about a gallon.
Bring 2 quarts water to boil.
Add 1 lb. good ground coffee
Return to boil for TWO MINUTES.
Remove from heat, cover & let sit overnight or 12 hours.
At same time, boil 4 cups water with 8 cups sugar
about 10 minutes, til slightly syrupy. Remove from heat,
cover & let sit, also.
Next day: Use a cloth bag or clean old pillowcase to strain grounds from
coffee.
Then mix: coffee, sugar syrup, 2-teaspoons real vanilla, & 2 pints grain alcohol (NOT VODKA). Vodka is something you mix with Kahlua, not an ingredient in it.
This is a recipe I've been making for years & it's a hit as a gift. We make it evey Christmas. Makes a whicked good White Russian, also.
credhed514 at 6:21PM on 11/16/09