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Do you know how to make homemade vanilla extract? Can you believe it only requires just two ingredients? It's as easy as steeping vanilla beans in alcohol for a few weeks. Your patience will be rewarded with a superb extract that will flavor all of your favorite baked goods.
If you are ready to take the plunge just follow these easy tips for how to make homemade vanilla extract - a gourmet product that would make an amazing DIY gift for a special foodie in your life. Here's the an easy breezy recipe anyone can master:
Ingredients for Homemade Vanilla Extract
14 vanilla beans
1 750 ml bottle of alcohol (vodka, rum, whisky, brandy) 70 proof/35% alcohol
Preparation of Homemade Vanilla Extract
Use a sharp knife to split the vanilla beans in half lengthwise. Place them into your chosen bottle of booze and allow to steep for at least a month. The vanilla extract may sit at room temperature indefinitely and can be poured in small bottles to use as needed.
How to make homemade vanilla extract in small batches
To make vanilla extra in a small batch use a ratio of one vanilla bean to one mini bottle of alcohol. Slice the bean lengthwise (you may cut it in half if it'll fit better) and slip into a mini bottle of rum, vodka, etc. You may begin using the vanilla extract after a week but the flavor will be stronger the longer it steeps.
Note: If you are preparing this as a DIY gift be sure to let the recipient know how long the extract needs to steep before using.
Ready to put your homemade vanilla extract to good use? Click here to learn how to make everything from vanilla mugcakes and avocado smoothies to Alfajores cookies and cranberry scones.
