Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Homemade Vanilla Extract

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I wanted to do something special for my family and friends at Christmas time, so back in early November I started brewing my own homemade vanilla extract. I ordered Madagascar Vanilla Beans, bought some Bell Jars, and headed to the liquor store. I have to say the experience of   purchasing two half gallons of vodka was an experience in itself, especially because it was about 11 am.  I think the clerk was either very impressed with me or very scared for me, or maybe it was all in my head. Oh well, you and I know the true reason why I was lugging around enough vodka for a small army. 


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Everyone I gave the vanilla to seemed really surprised and happy. I guess most people don't realize that vanilla extract is mostly alcohol. I haven't used the vanilla myself yet, but I am really excited to see if I can notice a difference in the flavor. I love that I will never run out of vanilla again - - all you have to do is top it off with more vodka when you start to get low!
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I have lots of left over vanilla beans so please share ideas for using them! Vanilla sugar is already on my list. 
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Homemade Vanilla Extract
Printable Version


Ingredients
1/2 gallon vodka 
20 vanilla beans


Directions
Slice vanilla beans lengthwise and place into vodka bottles.
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Shake every week and store in a dark, cool place. 
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Vanilla is ready when it has darkened. 
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4 comments:

  1. I've been meaning to do this forever! Nice job, and what a thoughtful gift idea!! Don't worry about your extra vanilla beans - just keep them in an airtight container and store in a dark place. They'll keep almost indefinitely. You can freeze them as well.

    Happy New Year,
    ButterYum

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  2. What about vanilla vodka? You could make some great winter cocktails. The jars turned out beautifully.

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  3. I did this in the summer. At first I didn't use enough beans, so it still tasted mostly like vodka. I added a bunch more and let it sit for another month and it was great. I've had great success with it in baking. As for the leftovers, I suggest making panna cotta (I have a couple of recipes on my blog) and googling pork recipes that involve vanilla. I've always found them intriguing.

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  4. I have really got to try this. I hate paying so much for a tiny bottle of pure vanilla extract at the grocery store.

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