Pure Vanilla Extract

Hello, again! Life has not exactly been the easiest since I last blogged. I ended up having to pack everything and move back to California because it did not work out in New York. It has been very trying to say the least. I am slowly getting back into my old groove. I will not go into detail since this is not exactly a personal blog, but a food blog! In any case, I am excited that towards the end of May, I will have a little cake to make! Oh how I love making cakes for people! I am excited to show you all the end product! Hopefully, it will come out perfect!

For the longest time, I have wondered whether I could make my own vanilla extract or not. I always go through so much of it when baking, so one day, I decided to look it up and what do you know, I can! What can you NOT make these days?! I was surprised that it takes such little effort! The only thing you have to have is patience! I suggest starting off with vodka instead of other alcohol because most extracts typically use vodka. Rum or bourbon will create a different depth of flavor that you may or may not like. Use any kind of vanilla beans you want, but Madagascar Vanilla Beans are popular as well as Tahitian Vanilla Beans. I absolutely love the Beanilla brand because the vanilla beans are plump and moist! I bought the one that comes with 10 in a bag. For vodka, you do not have to splurge. I just happened to get a higher end bottle, but it is not necessary. Just make sure that the vodka is at least 70 proof. Either way, when I calculated cost per ounce, it is still cheaper than buying vanilla extract over and over again at the store or even online! Plus, I know I am getting quality extract from my own ingredients! The other good thing about this is that you can make even MORE vanilla extract using the same vanilla beans as you use it! Just continue adding more vodka to your vanilla bean mixture in between uses. It really pays for itself! Generally, recipes I have seen call for 3-5 or as much as 7 vanilla beans per 8 oz. vodka, but do as you see fit! If you want to be fancy, you can buy an amber colored bottle to put the extract in since it is light sensitive. Otherwise, keep it in a cool, dark spot and it will last indefinitely! It is highly suggested that you allow the two to blend for 6 months or more to get the best results, but you can probably use it after 6 weeks. If you simply cannot wait, maybe try putting more vanilla beans in per 8 oz. to get a stronger vanilla flavor, or even cook the two over low heat to speed up the process. Remember to strain the mixture before using!

Beanilla brand Madagascar Vanilla Beans in a pack of 10!

Split the vanilla beans lengthwise.

 Now cut the vanilla bean in half.

 You can be as generous with the number of vanilla beans as you would like.

I will update this once I have vanilla extract!

Yields: Dependent upon how much you want to make! I made 16 oz. of vanilla extract

Ingredients:

32 oz. sterilized mason jar

6-10 vanilla beans or more if you are afraid it might be too boozy (I personally used 5 vanilla beans per 8 oz. vodka)

16 oz. vodka

Directions:
1. Sterilize whatever jar you are going to use by submerging it in water and boiling it for at least 15-20 minutes.

2. Use a knife to split the vanilla beans lengthwise and then cut them in half widthwise.

3. Put all the vanilla beans into the mason jar and add the vodka. Make sure to screw the cap on tightly and give the mixture a few good shakes. Place the jar in a cool, dark, and dry spot to allow it to steep for at least 6 weeks, but ideally for 3+ months! Remember to give it a good shake 1 - 2 times a week for best results!