It’s the holiday season, a time for joyous living and lots of giving. For the friends on your list, a liquid gift from your kitchen could be a welcome surprise. Really, who wouldn’t enjoy a splash of liqueur on the rocks or in a mug of coffee for sipping by the fire or around the Christmas tree? Even non-drinkers will appreciate the rich flavor these liqueurs impart to baked goods, puddings and candies.

Making liqueur is inexpensive and easy. The hardest part is letting the finished product age three to four weeks before imbibing. Therefore, start early choosing a recipe and gathering ingredients. I’ve included two that are guaranteed rich and delicious and also a recipe for a frosty cocktail that uses both as ingredients.

When ready to gift, tie a decorative tag around the neck of the bottle. Include a recipe for a hot or cold drink or a yummy dessert to make with the liqueur. Don’t forget to include storage instructions and a holiday greeting.

Irish Cream Liqueur

1 (750 milliliter) bottle Irish whiskey such as Jameson’s

8.75 ounces milk chocolate, chopped

2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk

2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk

2 1/2 cups heavy cream

1/2 tsp. instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 T. boiling water

Directions: Place condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream and chocolate in the top of a double boiler. Heat over simmering water, stirring often, till mixture is hot, but not boiling, and chocolate is melted. Stir in coffee. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Gradually stir the whiskey into the milk mixture. Using a funnel, pour the mixture into bottles with screw-top lids and store in refrigerator for 3 1/2 to 4 weeks before using. To serve, shake bottle well; serve in small glasses over crushed ice. Makes 3 (750 mL) bottles.

Coffee Liqueur

3 cups white sugar

1 cup light brown sugar

4 cups water

3/4 cup instant coffee granules

2 T. vanilla extract

4 cups vodka

Directions: In 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugars and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in instant coffee granules. Allow mixture to cool.

When cool, stir in vanilla extract and vodka. Pour into clean bottles. Close tightly and store in a cool dark place for several weeks before using. Makes about 8 cups.

Frosty’s Favorite

2 cups ice

4-ounces cold espresso or strong coffee

2-ounces coffee liqueur

2-ounces Irish Cream liqueur

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

Shaved chocolate for garnish

Directions: Add all ingredients to blender and mix until smooth. Pour into chilled rocks glasses and garnish with shaved chocolate. Makes 2 cocktails.