Homemade Vanilla Extract
User Reviews
5
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Description
The Homemade Vanilla Extract recipe combines whole vanilla beans with warm liquor—commonly vodka but alternatives such as bourbon or rum can be used—to extract the vanilla flavor over several months. The beans are first split to expose their seeds and placed in a sealed bottle with the warmed alcohol. Storing the bottle in a cool, dark place and shaking it regularly during the first week encourages thorough extraction.
Over six to eight months, the mixture develops a deep vanilla flavor that can be used as a natural flavoring in recipes needing vanilla essence. Because the process takes time and patience, preparing a larger batch in a mason jar is practical. The recipe notes also mention that food-grade glycerin can substitute alcohol for those needing an alcohol-free extract.
This preparation enables complete control over the strength and flavor of the vanilla extract while providing a sustainable alternative to store-bought varieties. The infusing vanilla beans can be left in the bottle indefinitely, allowing the extract to mature further if desired.
Ingredients
- 5 to 6 Vanilla Beans (from Madagascar, Tahiti or Mexico)
- 8 ounces vodka (or bourbon or rum)
- bottle
- funnel
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, set over medium-low heat, add the vodka. Warm it up until it’s warm to the touch. No need to take it to a boil. You just want it a bit warm.
- Using a paring knife, split open the vanilla bean pod to expose the beans. Add them to the bottle you’re using.
- Pour the vodka over the beans and close the lid. Label the bottle with the name and date. Store in a dark place. Every few days, in the beginning, you want to give it a shake. After those the first week, you can just give it a shake every week or so.
- Store in a dark cool place and in 6 to 8 months, you’ll have beautiful homemade vanilla extract.
Notes
- Split vanilla beans thoroughly to expose the seeds for better flavor extraction.
- Use a clean bottle or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid for storage.
- Shake the bottle daily during the first week of infusion, then weekly thereafter to distribute flavor evenly.
- Vanilla extract matures best stored in a cool, dark place for at least 6 to 8 months.
- For alcohol-free extract, substitute vodka with food-grade glycerin in equal amounts.
- Consider making larger batches in a mason jar if frequently using vanilla extract.
- Funnels are helpful for pouring liquids neatly into bottles and jars.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 7Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 83 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 83kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Sodium | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.003mg | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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