Homemade vanilla extract is known for its full, rich flavor; much better than the vanilla that you purchase at a grocery store.
List of ingredients:
3 vanilla beans
4-5 oz of 35% + alcohol.
1 glass bottle or jar (I used a small canning jar to put it in.)
The rule of thumb is 5 beans to 1 cup of alcohol - I didn't have 5 beans so I adapted the recipe to what I had on hand. I purchased the beans before I looked up a recipe.
I used Bacardi rum because it was what I had on hand. (The bottle cost $11.99) and the vanilla beans were purchased from a local health food store. I paid $3.99 for 3 whole Madagascar vanilla beans, non-irradiated.
- The original recipe said to split the vanilla beans lengthwise and add to alcohol; making sure that the beans are always submerged in the alcohol. I split mine lengthwise but then I cut in in half again so that all the beans remained below the alcohol level. I didn't want them sticking out.
- It will be ready to use in 8 weeks. It recommends that you remove the vanilla beans after the 8 week wait because if the vanilla beans are left in the jar, the flavor will continue to evolve.
- Since I made mine today; I will be able to use it on 2/7/13.
The reason homemade vanilla extract is so much better than store-bought is because you have control over the quality and type of vanilla bean used. When using a premium grade of vanilla beans it provides a better flavor and aroma than store-bought.
If you want a "Bold & Smokey" flavored vanilla extract try a Mexican vanilla bean.
If you want a "Rich & Creamy" flavor, use the Madagascar vanilla bean. (that's what I used)
If you'd like a floral aroma and a cherry-chocolate flavor try a Tahitian vanilla bean.
Wanna be real bold and adventurous! Blend various varieties together!
This would be a great gift idea! You may want to consider decorative glass bottles or jars!
I think a pretty canning jar with a cloth square is just as pretty!
I didn't have good lighting for this photo.
I love this idea! I bought some Madagascar vanilla beans from Amazon for Christmas cooking. The price for 16 was excellent, and now I know how to use the extras. Thanks for submitting it to my How To Tuesday link party!
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