How to Make Vanilla Extract
Homemade vanilla extract is tastier and less expensive than many commercial brands, and it makes a great gift!
Up next in Sauces, Dressings, & Condiments (29 videos)
Dress up your favorite dishes with these tasty sauces and condiments; just follow the recipes and cooking instructions in these videos.
You Will Need
- 6 vanilla beans
- A paring knife
- 2 c. vodka
- A glass jar with a lid
Steps
-
Step 1
Use a paring knife to split each vanilla bean lengthwise. Start about an inch from one end, leaving that end intact.
-
Use high-quality vanilla beans. Grade B beans are considered ''extract'' grade and provide the most flavor by weight.
-
Step 2
Put the beans in the jar, pour the vodka over the beans, and shake vigorously.
-
Step 3
Store in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar every week. Let it age for at least four weeks. The longer it ages, the stronger it will be.
-
Did you know? Vanilla beans are seed pods from vanilla orchids.
