Homemade Vanilla Extract
User Reviews
5
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Description
This Homemade Vanilla Extract method involves soaking split whole vanilla beans in vodka to extract their flavor compounds. The choice of mid-tier vodka provides a neutral base without unnecessary expense, and splitting the beans exposes the aromatic seeds, maximizing infusion. The extract matures in sealed bottles, stored away from light and heat to preserve its flavor and color.
Over a minimum of three months, vanilla flavor deepens, improving with longer aging. The resulting extract is suitable for baking and cooking, closely matching the quality of store-bought extracts with a fresher vanilla profile.
Properly bottled and stored vanilla extract can last up to five years. Grade B Madagascar beans are recommended for their consistent quality. Avoid using dry or brittle beans as they yield less flavor. Alternative alcohols like bourbon may be used but can alter the taste.
Ingredients
- ½ cup vodka 4oz, mid-shelf, like Smirnoff
- 2-3 whole vanilla bean ½ oz vanilla beans). see note
Instructions
- Thoroughly clean, wash, and dry bottles and lids that you’ll be using. Cut vanilla beans so that they will fit inside your bottles.
- Split beans lengthwise so that the tiny seeds are exposed.
- Place cut vanilla beans in bottle. Fit funnel over the top of the bottle and add liquor until the beans are fully submerged. Leave a little bit of space at the top of the bottle so that you will be able to shake the contents as they sit.
- Add label, if using, but make sure to mark the date that the vanilla was bottled. Store in a cool, dark place and shake occasionally (about once a week). Store vanilla for at least 3 months before using (the longer it sits, the better!).
Notes
- Use mid-shelf vodka or bourbon as your alcohol base for balanced flavor and cost.
- Split vanilla beans lengthwise to expose seeds and enhance flavor extraction.
- Store the bottle in a cool, dark place and shake once a week for best infusion.
- Allow at least 3 months of aging before using, with longer aging enhancing flavor.
- Grade B Madagascar vanilla beans are recommended for their plumpness and quality.
- Discard extract if it develops cloudiness or unpleasant smell.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 24servings (1 tsp per serving, recipe makes one 4-oz bottle)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 12 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1teaspoon | |
| Calories | 12kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Sodium | 1mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 1mg | 0% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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