Lemon Ice Balls for Cocktails

A glass with a large ice cube and a brown liquid, possibly a cocktail, on a marble countertop.

I make this for holiday gifts for close friends.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup freshly ground coffee

  • 2 cups 100 proof vodka

  • 1 vanilla bean, split (or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract)

  • 4 cups water

  • 2 cups brown sugar

Prevent screen from sleeping

Instructions

  1. Place the vodka, coffee, and vanilla in a large covered glass jar. Shake to combine, and place in fridge for 24 hours.

  2. Strain the coffee through a coffee filter, and throw away grounds.

  3. Make simple syrup by placing the water and brown sugar into a large sauce pan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.

  4. Combine the simple syrup and the vodka coffee. Place into individual containers, and chill.

Round ice cube on a granite countertop next to a metal cup and a glass