Homemade Coffee Liqueur - sugar

Method

• Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Remove from heat, and whisk in sugar and instant espresso, whisking until completely dissolved.
• Let cool 10 minutes.
• Stir in vodka and, if desired, chocolate liqueur until well blended.
• Pour mixture into a 2-quart glass bottle.
• Add vanilla bean.
• Cover tightly with lid, and shake throughly.
• Let stand in a cool, dark place 1 month, shaking at least once weekly.
• To Make A Coffee Liqueur Creme: Beat 1/4-1/3 cup heavy cream at medium-high speed with a heavy duty electric stand mixer until soft peaks form.
• Add 1/4-1/3 cup Homemade Coffee Liqueur, and beat 30 seconds.
• Gently stir until well blended.
• Cover and chill up to 2 hours.