Homemade After-Dinner Drinks For The Holidays

You're in the midst of shopping for and making gifts and, at the same time, trying to get it together to host a holiday party and maybe even have the family gathering. 

Making your own gifts is particularly thoughtful but, get real, who has time to do anything but charge?

Time is what Santa should bring you (money and alcohol work too). 

One way to multitask at holiday time with a unique gift idea which can also be used in your own entertaining plans is to make your own "Kahlua" and "Baileys Irish Cream."  It's not only less expensive than the real thing, but you can give the bottles a personalized flavor with your own packaging and labeling. 

Making both recipes is quick and easy. Kahlua can even be made decaf, and Bailey's has less fat and fewer calories than the store bought brand. 

Make some for others as gifts and, at the same time, make some for your own supply. Both can be bottled in Ball jars which can be decorated with festive flair. I make my own labels on the computer, put a little fabric hat on the top, tie it off with a bow and tag, and am ready for a cheerful holiday! 

"Kahlua"

4 cups water

4 cups sugar

2 ounces instant coffee (regular or decaffeinated)

2 teaspoons vanilla

1 fifth 90 proof vodka (25.6 ounces) 

Bring sugar and water to a boil. Dissolve coffee in a little of the sugar water and add to mixture. Boil for 6 minutes. Remove from heat. Add vanilla and let cool completely. Add vodka, cover, and let stand for two weeks before serving.

"Baileys" Irish Cream

1 cup light cream

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 2/3 cup Irish Whiskey

1 teaspoon instant coffee

2 tablespoons chocolate syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend at high speed for 30 seconds. Place in a tightly sealed bottle, refrigerate and enjoy!