Homemade Rootbeer Schnapps

My family, like E.X.T.E.N.D.E.D. family has a gigantic family reunion every five years.  It is my paternal grandmother's family ancestors.  It has been going on since the 80's and is always something we all look forward to.  For years.  
It was supposed to be this weekend.  In the Brainerd Lakes area.  Yeah...the area that just got pommeled by storms a few nights ago.  Our resort is now closed, and the tough decision was made to CANCEL the reunion. For the first time since its inception.  Yikes!
TEARS.  {Not from me.}  But a few of my younger cousins were devastated.  And of course, everyone is bummed out.  With no time to re-book a large group and a dinner party, my cousin has kindly offered her husband's family cabin as a backup plan.  
Although we won't get to see everyone we would have, it is still a great time to get together and enjoy the outdoors. We'll devour some good food, imbibe a few too many beverages, and I'm sure take some embarrassing photos.  Make sure to like my Facebook page for updates!
For the occasion, my aunt and I have put together a surprise.  Apparently the "adults these days" are in to root beer barrel shots...out of an ashtray.  Don't ask me!  I don't take shots, but I guess it's the thing to do!  So I set out to make my own Root Beer Schnapps for the occasion, and I'm going to share the recipe with you!  

I quadrupled this recipe to have plenty to go around.  You can do this in MINUTES and be ready to go!
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup very hot water 3⁄4 cup white sugar 1 cup vodka 1 teaspoon root beer concentrate 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla
DIRECTIONS:
Dissolve sugar in hot water. Add vodka and root beer concentrate and vanilla stir well. Store in air tight container.
YIELDS: 2 1/2 cups
EASY-PEASY, right?!  So yeah, I have ten cups of this stuff if you're interested, hah!

We also ordered some ashtrays from Amazon.  You can find them HERE if you're wanting to share in this excitement.  

Make sure you get an ashtray that completely separates each side.  Fill one side with your schnapps, the other side with beer, and SHOOT IT!  Like I said, I have not tried this, but I surely will be this weekend.  Let me know that you think!!