SUGAR SYRUP:

1 1/2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 c. granulated sugar
2 c. water

LIQUEUR:

3 c. sugar syrup
1/2 c. instant coffee
2 1/2 c. vodka
4 tsp. vanilla

SUGAR SYRUP: Mix ingredients in a large pan. Heat to boiling, stirring often. Lower heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Pour syrup into glass container and cool to room temperature.

LIQUEUR: Stir into the sugar syrup 1/2 cup instant coffee until very smooth. Pour into a screw top jar or bottle. Stir in 2 1/2 cups vodka and 4 teaspoons of vanilla. Close jar and store in a cool dark place for at least a week to age--the longer, the better.