Homemade Vanilla Extract
Homemade Vanilla Extract is something I had seen all over the internet several years ago. I started making it myself and have never looked back. In fact, I love it so much that last year I gave bottles to my entire extended family for Christmas. It is super easy to make and only requires that you have the time to let it sit.All you need are Vanilla Beans and Vodka. Use the least expensive you can find since it doesn’t make a difference tastewise. You can make the extract Gluten Free if you use a GF brand of Vodka. You need to let the extract sit for two months, so take that into consideration if you choose to make it as a gift.I purchase Vanilla Beans in bulk via Amazon. This is less expensive than getting them at the grocery store. They seem to store well in an airtight ziplock. I’ve never had a problem with them going bad and then I have them on hand for any other recipe that calls for them.Be sure to put the date you made the extract on the container somewhere so in case you’re like me and tend to forget you can know when the extract has sat for two months. Once it is ready, use the extract the same as its store bought counterpart.
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe:2-3 Vanilla Beans8oz VodkaCut the Vanilla Beans lengthwise leaving a small portion of the top connected. Stick 2 or 3 of them in a container and add 8oz of Vodka. Let the bottles sit in a cool dark place for about eight weeks. Shake occasionally to mix.