Homemade Vanilla Extract

Name: Homemade Vanilla Extract
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 56 d 5 min
Yield: 48 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces 70-proof alcohol; 4-6 Vanilla Beans

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5.0

144 reviews

Excellent

Prep Time
5 mins
Additional Time
56 d
Total Time
56 d 5 mins
Servings
48 servings
Calories
12 kcal
Course
Condiments
Cuisine
American

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Ethan Patterson

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With only 2 ingredients and 5 minutes of work, you can make high-quality vanilla extract at home at the cost of $10-$15 for 8 ounces or 48 servings of 1 teaspoon each.

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Ingredients

Servings

8 ounces 70-proof alcohol such as Everclear
4-6 Vanilla Beans

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Instructions

Clean and sterilize one 8-ounce jar or bottle or two 4-ounce bottles or jars. Using bottles with lids or stoppers is suggested.
Split the vanilla beans in half lengthwise. This will expose the seeds.
Add the vanilla bean and any loose seeds to the container. If you are using a 4-ounce container, you may need to cut the beans in half to fit them into the jar/bottle.
Add the alcohol to cover the beans, then seal the jar or bottle tightly with a lid. Gently shake each container to distribute the beans. Place the jars or bottles in a cool, dark place to infuse the flavors. Shaking the bottle occasionally.
The extraction process usually takes about 8 weeks. The longer you wait, the more intense and complex the flavor will become. At this point, the vanilla is ready to use, and the vanilla beans can be removed. If the vanilla beans are left in the bottle, the flavor will continue to evolve, just like a fine wine. Just be sure the beans are always submerged in alcohol.

Equipments used:

Notes

To make a flavored vanilla extract, add the flavoring ingredients to the jar along with the vanilla beans and alcohol. Some good combinations are:
Orange Vanilla: Add 3-4 strips of orange peel along with the vanilla beans. This gives the extract a subtle, citrusy orange flavor.
Spiced Vanilla: Add 1 cinnamon stick, 2 whole cloves, and 1 star anise pod. This will result in a vanilla extract with hints of spice and warmth.
Lemongrass Vanilla: Add 2 lemongrass stalks, sliced into 1-inch pieces. The lemongrass provides a bright, floral background note.
Lemon Vanilla: Use the zest from 1 lemon in place of orange peel. This gives the extract a refreshing lemon flavor.