How To Make Vanilla Extract

Ingredients

Jar:

Vanilla Bean to Alcohol Ratio:

Type of Vanilla Bean:

Type of Alcohol:

Instructions

  1. Place a label on the outside of the jar with the date the vanilla extract was made (start date) and the date 6 months later when the vanilla extract will be ready to use (end date).
  2. Whole vanilla beans should be placed in the jar so that they are completely submerged in the alcohol. A wide mouthed jar will allow more ease in arranging the whole beans in a way that allows total submersion.
  3. If the whole beans will not easily fit in the jar they can be cut into smaller lengths, but whole beans are best.
  4. Add alcohol of choice using the ratio of 6 beans per 8-ounces of alcohol. Note: A funnel will make pouring the alcohol into the jar easier.
  5. Give the jar a shake.
  6. Shake the jar every day for 1 week.
  7. Shake every few days during weeks 2 through 6.
  8. Shake once a month after week 6.
  9. Store in a cool, dark pantry for at least 6 months.
  10. NOTE: As the vanilla beans soak in the alcohol they will plump up. If the vanilla beans pop up above the alcohol use a spoon or a pair of tongs to press them down so they are submerged.
  11. After 6 months the vanilla extract is ready for use.
  12. NOTE: If vanilla is a pantry staple you use a lot, consider starting a new jar of vanilla extract every 3 to 6 months.
  13. To add more flavor to cakes, cookies and other baked goods, snip the end of the bean and squeeze out the seeds and then add to the recipe. DO NOT throw away the vanilla bean; instead add it back to the jar of soaking vanilla beans.
  14. Top the jar with a ¼ cup alcohol if beans are no longer submerged.

Comments

Vanilla Bean Varieties:

Vanilla beans are expensive so buying bulk will save money. Consider making several jars and sharing with friends who appreciate good vanilla.

Difference between vanilla bean varieties: Most cooks like the flavor of Madagascar beans, however, if you are interested in trying Tahitian or Mexican vanilla beans read descriptions from vendors to help you determine which beans to purchase.

Grade Ratings Of Vanilla Beans:

Grade A vanilla beans are usually at least 6-inches long as well as plump and moist. Grade B may be shorter in length with some imperfections, such as splits, and not as plump.

Which Grade Of Bean Should You Use?

Grade B vanilla beans are perfectly fine for use when making vanilla extract.

Grade A beans are a good choice if you are planning to make gift bottles of vanilla extract as you can stand the long beans up in the bottle for nice presentation.

Should Vanilla Beans Be Split Lengthwise Before Soaking In Alcohol?

There are two schools of thought on whether to split or not to split the vanilla beans before soaking in alcohol. I do not split my vanilla beans. My reasoning? When I want more intense vanilla flavor in a baked good I snip the end of one of the soaked vanilla beans and squeeze out the seeds. After soaking for 6 months the seeds will be very moist and have the texture of a thick paste. You can also split a vanilla bean lengthwise after it has soaked for at least 6 months and scrape out the seeds with the back of a paring knife.

What Type of Jar/Bottle Should Be Used For Homemade Vanilla Extract?

A bottle or jar with a glass clamp style lid and rubber seal is best. Do not use jars with metal lids as the reaction of the vanilla with metal will cause the extract to have a metallic taste.

Choice Of Soaking Alcohol:

Vodka is odorless and colorless and makes a good soaking liquid. Vodka will give the purest vanilla taste of any alcohol used. The more the vodka has been distilled the smoother and cleaner it will taste. A good distilled vodka will lead to a smooth and clean vanilla with a stronger vanilla flavor.

Bourbon will give the vanilla a slightly sweeter and a smokier profile.

Rum can be used to make vanilla. The best rum to use is white rum. DO NOT use spiced rum as it will overwhelm the vanilla flavor.

Price Point Of Soaking Alcohol:

No need to buy the most expensive alcohol. Any alcohol on the lower end of the price points offered at your local liquor store will be fine.

How Much Vanilla Extract Should I Make?
Vanilla beans ordered in bulk are cheaper! If you do a lot of baking make a larger quantity of vanilla extract. Don't forget to start a new batch of vanilla extract when your current batch is running low. How Long Can Vanilla Beans Soak?

Beans can soak for up to 2 years. The longer they soak the more flavorful the extract.

Can Alcohol Be Added To A Bottle Of Vanilla Extract That Is In Use?

Yes, alcohol can be added in ¼ cup increments every 3 to 6 months as a way to replenish the vanilla extract.

How Long Can A Jar Of Homemade Vanilla Extract Be Used?

A jar of homemade extract can be used for up to 2 years. If you are planning to make another batch consider starting about 6 months before your current batch expires.

What Should Be Done With Vanilla Beans From An Expired Batch Of Vanilla?

After using vanilla beans to make extract, you can simply rinse them off and allow them to dry. Once they are dry, you can store them in an airtight container until you are ready to use them again. When using the beans in recipes, you can simply scrape out the seeds and use them as you normally would.

Another way to reuse vanilla beans is to make vanilla extract again. After using the beans to make extract, they will still contain plenty of flavor that can be extracted again. Simply place the used beans in a container with alcohol, such as vodka, and allow them to infuse the alcohol with flavor. This will result in a new batch of vanilla extract that is just as flavorful as the first.

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