4 c. water, divided
3 c. sugar
1 bottle (4/5 qt.) vodka
1 vanilla bean
2 oz. Yuban instant coffee

1. Combine 3 cups water with sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved; cool.

2. Combine coffee and remaining 1 cup water and bring to boil; cool.

3. Split vanilla bean lengthwise. Pour cooled sugar syrup and coffee mixture into a large gallon container. Add vodka and vanilla bean. Seal and let stand 2 weeks. Remove vanilla beans. Decant into attractive bottles.