Homemade Vanilla Extract
Homemade Vanilla Extract is so incredibly easy to make and for a fraction of the cost of store-bought extract. With just two ingredients, a couple of tools, and a little time, you will have a delicious, clean extract perfect for all your baking needs.
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When it comes to baking, few ingredients are as essential as vanilla extract. Whether you're whipping up a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies, a decadent holiday cake, or even a simple pancake breakfast, vanilla is a staple that every kitchen needs.
But what if I told you that you could elevate your baking to a whole new level with homemade vanilla extract? Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but it's also more economical in the long run—and it makes the perfect gift, too!
If you’ve ever been intimidated by the idea of making your own vanilla extract, let me reassure you—it’s easier than you think. All you need are two ingredients: vanilla beans and alcohol (vodka is the most common choice). Simply split the vanilla beans, drop them into a bottle, pour in the alcohol, and let time work its magic. The hardest part is waiting as the flavors develop, but trust me, the result is well worth it.
Everything You Need To Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
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High-quality vanilla extract can be pricey, especially if you bake regularly. With homemade vanilla extract, you can make a large batch that lasts for months—or even years—at a fraction of the cost. Plus, since the beans can be reused for multiple batches, you get even more bang for your buck. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your extract—no artificial flavors, just pure, natural goodness.
Homemade vanilla extract isn’t just a treat for your own kitchen; it’s a wonderful gift idea, too. As the holidays approach, consider bottling up your homemade extract in pretty jars or bottles and adding a personalized label or ribbon. Whether for friends, family, or neighbors, a bottle of homemade vanilla extract is a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical—one that will be appreciated by anyone who enjoys baking.
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Equipment
- 1 Heat Gun
Ingredients
- 50 Organic Madagascar Vanilla Beans fresh
- 1 1.75 liter bottle liquor – your choice of vodka, rum, or whiskey
Instructions
- With a sharp knife, cut vanilla beans in half lengthwise and then split open to release vanilla beans.
- Place 4-6 pieces of sliced vanilla beans into each bottle.
- Using the funnel, fill the bottle nearly to the top with your choice of liquor.
- Securely screw on top. Place shrink wrap firmly over the top of the bottle, pressing down gently as far as it will go.
- With the heat gun, carefully warm the shrink wrap to let it seal against the bottle.
- Place bottle back into the box it came in and place in a cool, dry place – like a cubbord or pantry.
- Let the vanilla beans infuse the liquor for 5-6 months, removing the bottles once a month to gently shake the mixture, and then place back in the box to infuse.
- After 6 months your extract should be dark brown in color and ready for baking or gifting!
