I made these bottles of homemade vanilla extract to hand out to our family and new neighbors for the holidays and everyone seemed to really like them! They appreciated that it was both homemade and useful. Plus, the extract is easy to make; it is literally just vodka and vanilla beans. The problem is that you need to let the mixture sit for at least 2-3 months, so there is nothing last-minute about it. But still, it’s so nice to see the little vanilla beans (the “caviar” if you will) floating around reminding you how good they will make your fresh baked goods taste. Even when it isn’t the holidays, you should always have some of this is the cabinet. Just keep topping it off with vodka and replacing the beans and it will be your never ending supply of extract!
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Jar or bottle
Vanilla Beans
Vodka
Put beans in the bottle and cover with vodka. Use about 5 beans per cup of vodka. Store in a cool, dark place, and shake the bottle every week or so. Leave for at least 2-3 months.
Source: Beanilla
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Your post inspired me to do a little research. For a slightly different taste, you can make this with bourbon rather than vodka. In fact, the new Makers 46 has a hint of vanilla flavor. I found a post where one cook stores her vanilla beans in makers mark. I found many great recipes for bourbon and ice cream.. you may want to dedicate your blog to this topic.
I’ve been wanting to try this but have yet to get around to trying it!