I just spent a week in Mexico and enjoyed many a Kahlua based cocktail! On that note, please enjoy Grandma's recipe for homemade Kahlua. 

It may be a little late to have the coffee liqueur ready by Christmas, but it's a great recipe to start any time of the year! It also makes for a great side-by-side tasting. Cheers!

Homemade Kahlua

4 cups water

4 cups sugar

2 oz. instant coffee

1 vanilla bean

1/5th vodka or bourbon

Boil 4 cups water, then add 4 cups sugar, cook until dissolved.  Add 2 ounces of instant coffee.  Simmer slowly - do not boil! Add vanilla bean and 1/5 vodka or bourbon.  Bottle and cap.  Let it sit for one month!