Homemade Vanilla Extract
How to make your own vanilla extract right at home and much cheaper than in the grocery store.
Yield: 16 ounces
Equipment
- 1 16 ounce bottle
Materials
- 1 fifth vodka or bourbon
- 5-10 pods vanilla bean grade a, b, or c
Instructions
- First, split at least 8 vanilla bean pods down the middle on one side.
- Put pods inside your 16 ounce bottle.
- Then pour enough vodka or bourbon into your bottle to just cover the pods.
- Label the date on your bottle.
- Lastly, let your extraction process take place for at least 6 months in a cool, dark cabinet or pantry. One year and longer provides the best vanilla flavor.
Notes
You may be able to use 8 ounce bottles instead. Even though it is alcohol, you still want to err on the side of caution and make sure all bean pods are fully submerged and covered in alcohol. Cut the vanilla bean pods in half the short way to fit inside the 8 oz bottle.
It may be wise to have a "mother" jar of vanilla to add used pods to as they will continue to add flavor to alcohol for years to come as long as they are covered in liquid. You may use from the mother jar until just before the tallest pods is showing. Vanilla will continue to extract for a very long time.
Starting a new batch of vanilla extract every 3-6 months is a great way to always have vanilla ready to use or even to gift at the holidays. Be sure to mark your dates on your bottles!
Alternatively, use the fifth of vodka bottle to make extract. Remove 1 ounce of alcohol from the bottle. Split at least 14 pods down the middle, long ways, and insert into the liquor bottle. Apply the top and allow to sit for the allotted time. Decant into swing top bottles for gifting and aesthetic.
More recipes at www.johnsonhomenc.com