Homemade Vanilla Extract

Making homemade vanilla extract is so much easier than you think! We started out new extract project to save money and to make sure we were getting a pure and quality extract for our occasional gluten free baked goods. All you need to start is vanilla beans and vodka. I found good prices on ebay buying in a larger quantity. Here is the EBAY seller I used - shipping was VERY fast and they included a few free beans! The vodka was 80 proof obtained at the local liquor store - they say the cheap stuff is just fine.

 DAY # 1

 

You simply cut or split the whole beans exposing the vanilla seeds on the inside of the pod and place in glass bottle of vodka. The bottle needs to have a tight fitting lid and enough vodka in it to cover the beans. It needs to be stored in a cool dark place and every few days you give the bottle a shake, within 2-3 months you have pure homemade vanilla extract with no additives!

DAY # 10

Here's is another blog post with additional info and pictures: 

 http://www.diynatural.com/homemade-vanilla-extract/

I'll report back in a few months when our first batch is complete - I'm thinking about doing more and bottling it for holiday gifts!

-PP