Homemade Vanilla Extract
User Reviews
5
21 reviews
Excellent
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Report
Homemade Vanilla Extract is created by steeping split vanilla beans in vodka or other spirits, extracting rich, natural vanilla flavor over time. This preparation yields a pure vanilla extract that can be used interchangeably with store-bought versions, with the added benefit of control over ingredients and strength.
Description
The recipe involves sterilizing airtight bottles, slicing fresh Madagascar vanilla beans lengthwise, and placing them in the bottles. High-proof vodka (or alternatives like brandy, bourbon, or rum) is added to cover the beans completely. The mixture is shaken to combine and labeled with the start date.
Vanilla extract develops in flavor the longer it brews, typically several months. It can be used in any recipe that calls for vanilla without altering the quantity. This method allows for bulk preparation or smaller batches for gifting.
When gifting, leaving the vanilla beans in the bottle provides ongoing infusion potential. Vodka should be unflavored and gluten-free if needed. The recipe emphasizes patience for flavor development and offers printable labels for presentation.
Share:
Ingredients
Bulk Vanilla Extract - Great for Gifting
- 2.23 ounces Vanilla Beans About 15-25 vanilla beans. Weigh them for best results. Fresh Grade A or B Madagascar vanilla beans; if they are dryer, use more beans. For single-fold vanilla (lighter) use 15, for double-fold use 25 beans.
- 750 ml vodka (min 70 proof/80 proof is best, or brandy, bourbon, or rum)
- 4 ounce glass bottles Or 2 16-ounce bottles with tight fitting lid
Vanilla Extract By the Cup
- .75 - 1 ounce Vanilla Beans about 8 vanilla beans
- 8 ounces vodka (min 70 proof/80 proof is best, or brandy, bourbon, or rum)
- 1 ounce glass bottle with tight fitting lid
Instructions
- While it isn't always necessary, I recommend sterilizing your bottles or jars before using them. This can be done by boiling them in a stock-pot of water for 10 minutes, then carefully removing them to a clean towel to dry them completely.
- Using the tip of a sharp knife slice bean gently lengthwise, stopping just before you get to the end.
- Place desired number of sliced vanilla beans into the bottle of choice; snip your beans in half if the alcohol doesn't cover the entire bean or if they are too tall for the bottle. Your beans should always stay covered.
- With a funnel placed on top of the bottle, slowly pour 750 ml vodka over the beans until they are covered and the bottle is full. Tip If your funnel isn't flowing, simply lift it slightly off the mouth of the bottle breaking the seal and allow it to flow easily. Place on lid and tighten, shake passionately for a minute.
- Write date started on the bottom or side of the bottle, using chalk or metallic marker as well as type of vanilla. Put a reminder in your calendar to shake it weekly for at least 4 weeks, preferably up to 6-12 months.
- Once your vanilla no longer smells of the spirit you used and smells instead like vanilla it is ready! Print free vanilla extract labels! Link below in notes.
How to replenish vanilla
- Everytime you use a tablespoon or more of your vanilla top it off with the same liquor used the first time (i.e if it was originally made with vodka, use vodka). Give it several passionate shakes and you are ready to go for next time, plus you ensure your beans stay covered and moist. No waiting involved, but not the most convenient.
- Wait until you've used about half of your vanilla, or until the beans are exposed, then top it off with same original liquor, but let it hang out again in a dark pantry for 2 weeks or longer before using. This works well if you have two bottles of vanilla, then you can alternate between the two, this is my preferred method.
- For either method, be sure to occasionally (maybe once or twice a year) throw in a fresh vanilla bean. And always if you've used a bean in cooking or baking -- don't throw that bean away, toss it in your bottle of vanilla.
- Every 1-2 years (based on use) replace all of your vanilla beans, following the above method.
Equipments used:
Notes
- Use the same quantity of homemade vanilla extract as you would store-bought in recipes; no need to increase.
- For gifting, include the vanilla beans in the bottle so the recipient can replenish the alcohol to maintain flavor.
- Ensure the vodka or spirit is gluten-free if this is a dietary concern; avoid flavored vodkas.
- The extract intensifies with longer steeping time, so allow it to mature for best results.
Nutrition Information
Show Details
Serving
1teaspoon
Calories
2kcal
(0%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 750ml (about 3.17 cups)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 2 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1teaspoon | |
| Calories | 2kcal | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Genuine Reviews
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
21 reviews
Excellent
Other Recipes
You'll Also Love
