Homemade Pure Vanilla Extract

Homemade Vanilla Extract is so easy to make and

it makes a nice gift for anyone who likes to bake.

Ingredients:

8 - 10 (1 ounce) vanilla beans   
8 ounces alcohol such as vodka, bourbon, brandy, or rum  (70 Proof / 35% Alcohol)                            
(Use 1 ounce of vanilla beans per 8 ounces of alcohol and multiply accordingly if 
making more extract.) 
Clean empty glass bottles

Method:                                                                                                                                              

Slice each bean once long-ways. Place the cut vanilla beans in a glass container, and cover with alcohol. Make sure the beans are completely submerged. If needed, cut beans in half to make certain they are covered. Secure the lid; and store in a cool, dark place. Allow the extract to develop for at least two months before using, shaking at least once a week. Over time the color will deepen to a dark brown, and it will develop a strong vanilla flavor. Once it smells primarily of vanilla and not alcohol, it is ready to use. Store it at room temp and out of direct sunlight. Top off the bottle as you use the extract. Eventually, (in a few years) all the flavor will be extracted from the original vanilla beans, so you can periodically add fresh beans.

   

Notes:  
Homemade vanilla is superior to commercially processed vanilla in both flavor and quality.            There are different varieties of vanilla beans and each creates a unique flavor:                 
Ugandan Vanilla Beans ~ Bold & Smokey                                                                             
Tahitian Vanilla Beans ~ Floral Aroma with a Cherry-Chocolate Flavor                     
Madagascar Vanilla Beans ~ Traditional, Rich and Creamy                                                         
You can even create your own special vanilla by pairing different varieties together.