Ersatz Frangelico

Ersatz Frangelico

4 cups unshelled Hazelnuts (or 2 1/2 cups shelled) 4 tsp. Angelica root (available in natural foods stores)
31 oz. Vodka, 80 proof 1 tbsp. Vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. Almond extract 1 1/2 cups Granulated sugar 3/4 cup Water, filtered or distilled 1 tsp. Glycerine (available in pharmacies) 2 drops Yellow food coloring (optional) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Shell hazelnuts. Roast the nuts on a baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven, and allow to cool to room temperature. Coarsely chop nuts, and place in a large glass container.
Bruise angelica root with a morter and pestle, and add to container. Add the vodka.Cap tightly and put in a dark place for 1 month. Shake jar occasionally. Pour mixture through a fine strainer to remove the larger pieces. Then pour mixture through a cheesecloth, and finally through paper coffee filters to remove the smaller particles.
After staining and filtering, measure the volume of the alcohol mixture. It should measure 28 ounces. If the volume is less, add more vodka to make up the difference.In a scrupulously clean sauce pan, bring the water to a boil. Add sugar, stirring until dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature. Add syrup to alcohol mixture.
Stir in vanilla and almond extracts, glycerine, and food coloring. Allow to age for at least 3 months. A second straining may be required after the aging period.