Use fresh vanilla beans to produce homemade vanilla extract.
Commercial vanilla extract can cost a lot of money. You can produce your own vanilla extract at home with vanilla beans and vodka. Once the vanilla beans and vodka age, the vanilla extract will turn an amber color. You can continue to age the vanilla extract as long as you keep it stored in a dark and cool location. The extract can always be replenished so that you have it on hand for your baking needs.
Instructions
1. Wash a glass bottle and its lid with hot and soapy water. Dry the bottle completely before you begin to make the extract. The glass bottle will need to be tall enough to accommodate the vanilla beans and large enough to hold two cups of liquid.
2. Slice six vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp knife. Avoid cutting the last inch so that the beans remain intact.
3. Insert the sliced vanilla beans into the glass bottle. Place a funnel on top and pour in two cups of unflavored vodka.
4. Fill the bottle completely full with the vodka. Place the lid on the bottle securely and shake the bottle.
5. Place the vanilla extract in a cool and dark location. Shake the bottle every three to four days. You can use the vanilla extract in six to eight weeks. The extract will appear darker and begin to smell stronger.
6. Add fresh vanilla beans and vodka to the bottle to replenish it. Store unused beans by placing them in a closed container, but avoid an airtight one so that the air can circulate. Avoid placing them in the freezer or refrigerator. If they are stored properly, the vanilla beans will last for one year.
Tags: vanilla beans, vanilla extract, beans vodka, glass bottle, vanilla beans vodka