Vanilla is one of the most versatile flavors and can be used in a variety of desserts and dishes. While vanilla extract is commonly used in baking, making your own vanilla extract using vodka and vanilla beans is a fun and easy DIY project that can also save you money in the long run.
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Here's how to make vanilla using vodka and vanilla beans:
Ingredients:
Equipment:
- A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- A sharp knife (I recommend Cutco brand. They're my favorite)
- A cutting board (I recommend one with a trench around the edges for catching liquid before it runs onto the table)
- A funnel
Instructions:
Choose high-quality vanilla beans. Look for plump and oily beans that are flexible and have a strong, sweet aroma. You can find vanilla beans at most specialty food stores, as well as online.
Cut the vanilla beans in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Use the tip of the knife to scrape out the tiny seeds from the inside of the bean.
Place the vanilla beans and seeds into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Pour the vodka over the vanilla beans until they are fully covered.
Give the jar a good shake to mix the vodka and vanilla beans.
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 8 weeks, shaking it every few days. The longer you let it sit, the stronger the vanilla flavor will be.
After 8 weeks, strain the vanilla extract through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any small particles or debris.
Tips:
- You can reuse the vanilla beans to make a second batch of vanilla extract by simply adding more vodka to the jar and letting it sit for another 8 weeks. I have done this several times and just keep adding more vodka and letting it sit until it is a dark rich brown.
- You can also experiment with different types of alcohol, such as bourbon or rum, to create different flavors of vanilla extract.
- Make sure to label your vanilla extract bottle with the date it was made, so you know when it's time to make a new batch.
- In the jar above: the large uncut vanilla bean is a grade A. Just split it down the center and add to jar. The diced up ones at the bottom are grade B. Not sure why, but the oh so powerful internet told me to do them that way. So that is what I did. Right, Wrong, or Indifferent. But the Vanilla is full of taste so it worked regardless.
Making your own vanilla extract is a simple and rewarding process that can add a delicious and authentic flavor to your baked goods and desserts. By following these easy steps, you'll have a homemade vanilla extract that's ready to use in just a few weeks!
Make sure to checkout all of the recipes on our blog.
These recipes include the delicious vanilla we made in this recipe. Try them out including yummy 4th of July bars
