Homemade Vanilla Extract
I have been wanting to make my own vanilla extract for months and finally I have (its my first project for 2012). It was very simple. One bottle of cheap vodka (I bought mine from Aldi for $24 US/Aus), vanilla beans (I bought mine from eBay - 10 for $13) and a bottle. It takes about 3 weeks to change to a dark colour and ready to use. Once made it lasts forever, just top up with vodka from time to time and add a few additional beans (and remove the old ones). The only difference between the homemade extract and the one you buy is sugar, the commercial extract contains sugar, but this isn't necessary when vanilla is being added to cake recipes etc.. Keep it away from children as the alcohol level is 49% (the commercial extract is 35%!). Even after a few days it is smelling very nice!
Ingredients
- 1 bottle vodka (2.5 cups)
- 10-15 vanilla beans
- 1 large bottle with a tight fitting lid
- Split the vanilla bean in half. You can use a sharp knife or a pair of scissors.
- Add the split beans to the bottle.
- Pour the vodka over the vanilla beans.
- Put the lid on the bottle, and store for a few weeks. Give the bottle a shake every few days.
- 3 weeks later, you have a deep, dark, vanilla extract.
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In three weeks I will show you the finished product.
~oOo~
I've made homemade vanilla extract in the past. It's so great to bake with!
ReplyDeleteMary Ellen
The Working Home Keeper
Mine is at the "half way point" in color. I took a sniff the other day - smells delicious! Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
ReplyDeleteJo this sounds like so much fun! I bet it will be the best vanilla ever-- can't wait to see how it turns out. We usually buy our vanilla on our travels- we find we like the vanilla from Mexico the best.
ReplyDeleteXo,
Vicki
This is definitely an interesting process. I look forward to seeing what this product looks like in 3 weeks time. :)
ReplyDeleteI've read about homemaking it first, but never quite sure if it tastes the same or different. It will be interesting to see what your verdict is!! :)
ReplyDeleteClara - we had a smell of it yesterday and it smells just like vanilla but still to early to taste. It should be the same as the bought vanilla but without sugar.
ReplyDeleteHave to admit my ignorance here. I like vanilla, (I used to drink vodka a long time ago) but I never realised that vanilla essence contained vodka.
ReplyDeleteI also learnt recently from another friend that folks in Australia use it to clean their fridges. I have a bottle of vodka that has sat unopened for a long time, maybe I will try this sometime
Nita - the vanilla you buy in the store is not made from vodka, but from a tasteless alcohol at 35%, so it is strong!! Homemade vanilla use vodka because it is best for picking up the vanilla and letting it take over the flavour. Yes, you could use the bottle you have - just need some beans! I used 10 in mine.
ReplyDeleteI use vanilla to wipe down my fridge as it gives it a nice smell.