1. In a glass bottle or jar, steep the chopped hazelnuts in the vodka for about 2 weeks in a cool, dark place, gently shaking the bottle every day. Gently pour the contents through a strainer or sieve, pressing hard on the nuts to release all the flavor.

2. Follow this by 2 strainings through slightly dampened cheesecloth or large coffee filter; loosely cover the contents with plastic wrap, since the process may take several hours.

3. In a very small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.

4. Bring to a boil over moderate-high heat.

5. Simmer, uncovered for 5 minutes.

6. Let cool to room temperature.

7. Stir in the vanilla.

8. Funnel into a glass bottle, the funnel in the sugar syrup.

9. Cover tightly; shake to blend.

10. Let mature at room temperature, or slightly cooler, for at leat 3 weeks.

11. Homemade version of frangelico.

12. "glorious liqueurs" mary morris.