Chocolate liqueur is an alcoholic drink with a strong chocolate flavor. High-quality chocolate liqueur has a clear, light brown appearance. Several companies sell chocolate liqueurs commercially, but homemade liqueurs are tasty and cost-effective alternatives. Most chocolate liqueurs contain vodka flavored with cocoa, making them easy to replicate at home. Infusing vodka with chocolate creates a rich, syrupy liqueur with a texture similar to expensive commercial liqueurs. Serve chocolate vodka with a dollop of whipped cream, or make a chocolate martini.

Wash a large bottle with a tight seal, such as a large canning jar. Allow the bottle to dry thoroughly before adding any liquids.

Heat 3/4 cup water into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 cups white sugar and 5 tbsp. cocoa powder. Stir the mixture occasionally until it is smooth.

Reduce the heat once the mixture reaches a boil. Continue stirring until the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Slice a vanilla bean lengthwise to expose its moist interior. Place the split bean in the large jar. Pour the sugar mixture into the jar, and add 3 cups vodka.

Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Every two days, invert the jar several times to stir its contents. Continue stirring the chocolate vodka mixture for two weeks.

Place a moist coffee filter in a wire mesh strainer. Place the strainer over a large glass container. Slowly pour some of the chocolate vodka mixture into the filter and let it strain. Change the filter when it begins to clog with sugary residue. The filtered product should be a clear, light brown liquid.

Store the chocolate vodka for 30 days in a cool, dark place before drinking.