Ingredients:

• 5-6 vanilla beans (or more for a stronger flavor)

• 8 ounces (240 ml) of alcohol (vodka is a popular choice, but you can also use bourbon, rum, or brandy)

 

Equipment:

• A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

• A sharp knife or scissors

 

Step-by-step process:

1. Choose Quality Vanilla Beans: Select high-quality vanilla beans for the best flavor, LAIETA VANILLA BEANS are our best recommendation. Look for plump, oily, and flexible beans with a rich aroma. Madagascar (Bourbon) vanilla beans are commonly used for homemade vanilla extract.

2. Prepare the Beans: Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully slice each vanilla bean lengthwise, splitting them open. Leave the tops attached, so the beans remain intact.

3. Select Your Alcohol: Choose your preferred alcohol for extraction. Vodka is a neutral choice that allows the vanilla flavor to shine, but you can also experiment with other spirits like bourbon, rum, or brandy for different flavor nuances.

4. Combine Beans and Alcohol: Place the split vanilla beans into the glass jar. Pour the alcohol over the beans, ensuring they are fully submerged. The ratio of alcohol to vanilla beans should be about 1 cup (240 ml) of alcohol for every 5-6 vanilla beans.

5. Seal the Jar: Tightly seal the jar with its lid. Give the jar a gentle shake to ensure the beans are evenly distributed in the alcohol.

6. Store in a Dark Place: Find a cool, dark spot to store the jar. The ideal storage location is a pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight. Allow the vanilla beans to steep in the alcohol for at least 7 weeks, though longer steeping times (up to 6 months) will yield a more intense flavor.

7. Shake Occasionally: Every week or so, give the jar a gentle shake to agitate the mixture. This helps the vanilla beans release their flavor into the alcohol.

8. Test the Flavor: After the minimum steeping time has passed, you can start using your homemade vanilla extract. Taste a small amount to see if the flavor is to your liking. If you desire a stronger flavor, continue steeping for a few more weeks.

9. Bottle and Store: Once you're satisfied with the flavor, strain the extract through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the vanilla bean particles. Transfer the clear liquid to smaller bottles for easy use and storage.

10. Label and Enjoy: Label your homemade vanilla extract with the date and type of alcohol used. Store it in a cool, dark place, and use it in all your favorite recipes as a natural and flavorful alternative to store-bought vanilla extract.

Bonus tip: Don't discard the used vanilla beans after making your extract. You can rinse and dry them, then use them to make vanilla sugar or grind them into homemade vanilla powder for more delightful vanilla-infused treats!