Instead of ringing in the new year with a toast of expensive champagne, try an inexpensive alternative - homemade Kahlua. Hard liquor, as well as beer and some liquors do not require a kosher certification. But flavored liquors as well as wine does need a kosher symbol. Kahlua used to be available under kosher certification, but it has become harder and harder to find, as currently only those bearing a label in Spanish coming directly from Mexico seem to be under certification. So, we decided to make our own - it turns out it's not that hard, quite good, and decidedly much less expensive than buying a bottle. And, if I might add, a fun activity to do after the kiddies are asleep.

Taken from recipezaar.com

4 cups water (boiling)
3 cups sugar
12 teaspoons instant coffee (not decaf and NOT cheapo PLEASE)
2 cups vodka
3 teaspoons vanilla

Simmer the water, sugar and coffee for at least 2 hours.
Stir occasionally. It will be a runny syrup.
Allow to cool.
Add at 2 cups vodka.
Add vanilla.
It is good now but will be better in about 2 weeks.

We are storing ours in a mason jar we sterilized, and are now saving small bottles to give out samples to friends and family. Enjoy!