Homemade Vanilla Extract

A Journey from beautiful beans to delicious extract!

There is no denying it, there is nothing better than the smell of fresh vanilla. For me it makes me think of cozy days making cakes and cookies with my daughter. The convenience on buying vanilla extract can be enticing, but nothing beats the rich flavor of making it homemade.

Why make your own Vanilla Extract?

Superior Flavor: Many people find the flavor of homemade vanilla extract far superior to store bought. This is because, when making your own vanilla, you can control the steeping process and provide higher-quality ingredients.

Cost Effective: An organic bottle of vanilla from the grocery store can cost close to $13. When making your own homemade vanilla the cost can be significantly cheaper and you are creating a higher-quality product. While the upfront cost can be more, the amount of vanilla you get will last you much longer than the store bought.

Personalized Touch: When making your own vanilla you can add in your own personal touches. You can make it as strong or as mild as you like, you can change the alcohol used to change the flavor profile, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients:

1. Alcohol: I prefer to use white unflavored rum. However you can use any high-proof alcohol, like bourbon or vodka
2. High-quality Beans: I prefer to use Grade B beans, but you can use Grade A beans or splits.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: Split the beans lengthwise with a sharp knife. You want to expose the tiny black seeds, this will help the beans infuse with the alcohol
2. Add to a Container: Place the beans in an airtight container, like a mason jar. I like to put these lids on my jars to make pouring easier. You will need around 3-5 beans per 8oz of alcohol.
3. Pour in the Alcohol: Cover your beans completely with you alcohol of choice. If your beans are too “tall” cut them in half so that they are completely submerged.
4. Allow to sit: You are going to want to let the vanilla sit in a cool dark place for at least 2 months. However, the longer you leave it the better. Shake whenever you remember to do it.

I know it is tempting to pull out the vanilla before the 2 months, but patiences it KEY when letting the beans infuse. The longer you can let it sit and steep the better the flavor will be.

Uses for Your Vanilla:

There are so many uses for your vanilla once it is ready! Our family’s personal favorite is these Chocolate Chip Cookies! It also makes a wonderful gift to friends and family!

By following these simple steps you can have a delicious vanilla you can use to elevate your baked goods or give as a gift! Go ahead and give it a try and let us know how it went!