How to Make Vanilla Extract
Total Time
1 month and 4 weeks
Prep Time
1 month and 4 weeks
Rating
4.89 out of 5 stars
(9)
Ingredients
1 serving
- 6-7 vanilla beans
- 1 cup 80 proof vodka, bourbon, rum or brandy
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Preparation
Step 1
Slit each vanilla bean down the middle lengthwise so that the insides are exposed. Be sure not to slice all the way through the bean pod. Place each vanilla bean in an 8 ounce glass bottle or jar. If the beans don’t fit lengthwise, simply cut them into smaller pieces widthwise.
Step 2
Pour the vodka (or bourbon, rum or brandy) into the jar. Make sure the vanilla beans are completely submerged. Give the bottle a couple of shakes.
Step 3
Store the vanilla at room temp out of direct sunlight for at least 8 weeks, and give it a shake once every 1-2 weeks. The longer your vanilla sits, the better the flavor will be, I love when it sits for at least 3 months!
Step 4
Once you begin to use the vanilla, you can either continue to refill the bottle with more alcohol of choice to keep using the same beans, or you can remove the beans and use the vanilla as-is.
Step 5
Save recipe for the next time?
