Espresso Liquor

1/2 cup medium roast coffee beans
1 1/2 teaspoon cacao nibs
1/4 vanilla bean halved lengthwise
8 ounces vodka
4 ounces brandy
4 ounces simple syrup

1 Place coffee beans, cacao nibs, vanilla bean, vodka, and brandy in pint-size glass jar. Cover tightly and shake to combine. Store jar in cool, dark place for 1 week, shaking mixture once every other day.

2 Set fine-mesh strainer in medium bowl and line with triple layer of cheesecloth. Strain vodka mixture through prepared strainer; discard solids. Return infused vodka mixture to clean jar and add simple syrup. Cover and gently shake to combine. (Coffee Liqueur can be stored in cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Shake gently before using.)