3 3/4 c. granulated sugar
1 (2") piece vanilla bean, chopped
1/4 c. instant coffee powder or granules
1 qt. vodka
2 tsp. glycerin (from drugstore) (opt.)

Mix sugar, vanilla and 2 cups of water in a small saucepan. Stir over moderate heat until sugar dissolves. Continue cooking 30 minutes without stirring. In a large bowl, mix coffee with 1/4 cup boiling water until coffee dissolves. Stir in vodka and glycerin. Strain vanilla syrup and then pour into sterilized bottles. Close bottles with caps or corks. Let liqueur age at least 30 days. Makes 2 quarts.