Instructions: While you can brush liqueur onto cake layers straight from the bottle, the most vibrant and subtle flavor enhancement is achieved by using a sugar syrup combined with a spirit or a fragrant vanilla bean.

Makes 1 1/4 cups

1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 to 1/3 cup liqueur of choice or 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Combine water and sugar in small saucepan and heat over low to dissolve sugar. Stir a few times. Turn up heat and bring to a simmer; boil 20 seconds.

(Or do this in the microwave in a Pyrex measuring cup.)

Let syrup cool until warm. Add liqueur or vanilla bean and stir well. Cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Can be made a month ahead.

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