Vanilla extract is one of the easiest things you are going to learn to make. It requires only 2 ingredients and makes your homemade baked goods taste and smell amazing. Read on to learn how to quickly and easily make homemade vanilla extract.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is an ingredient that is used in a variety of baked goods. It can easily turn a good baked item into a great baked dish.
The bonus with your homemade vanilla extract is that you can fill it with more vodka as it runs out, which makes is a great gift that will keep on giving.
Waiting Time
When making homemade vanilla extract, you will need to be patient.
Time is needed to infuse the vanilla into the vodka.
The longer it sits, the darker the colour of the extract becomes and the better it tastes.
Storing Vanilla Extract
While infusing, it is best stored out of direct sunlight. Remember to give it a shake once a week.
Once done, store in a bottle in the dry, dark pantry.
Ingredients to make Vanilla
- 1 cup (8 oz) vodka – though brandy, bourbon or rum can also be used
- 3 whole vanilla beans
- glass jars
Making Vanilla Extract
- Wash and sanitise your glass jars and lids.
- Cut the vanilla beans in half, then split each half in the middle vertically leaving them attached (about 2cm) at one end.
- Add the vanilla beans to the jars.
- Use a funnel to add the vodka.
- Screw the lid on tight and shake gently.
- Let them brew for around 12 weeks. Shake occasionally.
Vanilla Extract Tips
- Homemade vanilla extract may be lighter than the store bought stuff. This may be due to the added ingredients or the process in which the store bought extract is made.
- A great place in Australia to get quality vanilla beans from is Vanilla & Co.
- Once the beans start showing, top up your bottle with some more vodka.
- This vanilla extract does have a few flecks of vanilla seeds in it. If you do not like these, you can stain the vanilla through a sieve or strainer before using.
- This recipe can be made with other alcohols such as white rum or bourbon.
I also created some printable labels which can be printed out on white label paper or on white paper and glued to your bottles. Click on the link below to grab them.
More Syrup & Extract Recipes
DIY Vanilla Extract
Simple Living. Creative LearningIngredients
- 1 cup (8 oz) vodka
- 6 whole vanilla beans
- glass jars
Instructions
- Wash and sanitise your glass jars and lids.
- Cut the vanilla beans in half, then split each half in the middle vertically leaving them attached (about 2cm) at one end.
- Add the vanilla beans to the jars.
- Use a funnel to add the vodka.
- Screw the lid on tight and shake gently.
- Let them brew for around 12 weeks. Shake occasionally.
Notes
- Homemade vanilla extract may be lighter than the store bought stuff. This may be due to the added ingredients or the process in which the store bought extract is made.
- A great place in Australia to get quality vanilla beans from is Vanilla & Co.
- Once the beans start showing, top up your bottle with some more vodka.
- This vanilla extract does have a few flecks of vanilla seeds in it. If you do not like these, you can strain the vanilla through a sieve or strainer before using.
- This recipe can be made with other alcohols such as white rum or bourbon.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. The values may vary according to the ingredients and tools that are used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed information.
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