Homemade Vanilla Extract
If you've ever looked at the outrageous price of pure vanilla extract at the grocery store, you're not alone! Plus, the rate at which we consume vanilla in our house is excessive. Thank goodness making Homemade Vanilla Extract is incredibly easy, requires just TWO simple ingredients, and tastes way better than store-bought versions. While it does take a little patience, the hands-on time is only about 5 minutes to combine vanilla beans and vodka. Then, you tuck the bottle away in a cool, dark place, and let time do the work. Six months later, you'll have rich, flavorful vanilla extract that's perfect for all your favorite baking recipes and makes great Christmas gifts too!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 oz Vanilla Beans (about 5-7)
- 8 oz Vodka or Bourbon
Instructions
Preparing the Beans:
- Depending on where you get your beans, they can be different sizes. Slice them lengthwise down the the middle to expose more of the inside of the bean. Cut the beans down to fit the height of your jar if necessary, they'll need to be fully submerged in the vodka.
Bottling:
- Place your beans into your bottle and fill with vodka or bourbon. Make sure the beans are fully submerged in the liquid. Twist cap on tightly, give it a good shake, and store in a cool, dark spot at room temperature for about 6-12 months. Shake 1-2 times a week.
Patience:
- It takes at least 6 months for the vanilla beans to magically turn the alcohol into vanilla extract. However, the longer you wait, the stronger the flavor will be.
Notes
Tips:
- You can remove the beans once you think its finished, or you can leave them in for a more complex flavor. You can also pour a portion into another bottle to start using, and then add more alcohol to the bottle with the beans to keep making more and have a continual supply!
- Label the bottle with the date you started it
- Use Grade B vanilla beans: Madagascar Vanilla Beans
- I love using these little amber bottles or these clear bottles.
- Make sure the beans stay fully submerged in the vodka.
- Shake the bottle occasionally while it infuses.
- Once you use some extract, you can top it off with more vodka to extend its life.
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