Homemade Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is one ingredient that takes any baking recipe to the next level and tastes one hundred times better! I love the flavour of a good quality vanilla extract; therefore, I am pretty generous when it comes to adding vanilla to my recipe. Now imagine how unique and fragrant a Homemade Vanilla Extract can be! In this post, you will learn how to make your own good quality and organic Homemade Vanilla Extract.

Why Homemade Vanilla Extract Is Better

• It is easy to make, and you can always have an excellent quality vanilla extract handy.
• As you use the extract, add more alcohol and vanilla pods to the container. You will have vanilla extract all year round.
• You will control the intensity of the extract and the kind of vanilla grade you would like to use.
• There won't be any preservatives in this product.
• It is less expensive and tastes better than store-bought ones.
• It never expires, and in fact, it tastes better as time goes by.

Variety Of Extracting Vanilla Beans

Suppose you are unfamiliar with the world of vanilla. In that case, you may be surprised to learn two primary grades of vanilla beans commonly used in culinary applications: A and B. While both types of beans have unique characteristics and uses, it can be unclear to know what the grades mean and when to use each bean. Let's look closer at what separates grade A and B vanilla beans and how you can choose the best option for your needs.

The appearance and moisture content of vanilla beans are the primary factors that determine their grade. Grade A vanilla beans are longer, plumper, and have a higher moisture content than grade B vanilla beans. They also have a shiny, oily exterior and are free of blemishes or defects. Grade B vanilla beans, on the other hand, are shorter, thinner, and have a lower moisture content. They have a duller exterior and may have some blemishes or defects (like splits and cracks). Reference.

Single Fold vs. Double Fold Vanilla Extract What's the Difference?

You need 13.35oz of vanilla beans for every 1 gallon of 35% alcohol for single-fold vanilla extract. A double-fold vanilla extract simply doubles the FDA's required minimum. (26.7oz of vanilla beans for every 1 gallon of 35% alcohol) 

What We Need To Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

• The beauty of Homemade Vanilla Extract is its easy preparation and short list of ingredients.
• We only need vanilla beans, at least 35% Vodka, Brandy or Bourbon, and a jar to make this dreamy extract.
• The ideal extracting vanilla bean is Grade B Vanilla Beans.
• You can use Plain vodka, such as Absolute Vodka, or Brandy or Bourbon for a more intense vanilla flavour.
• We also need a tight closing jar. The jar should be clean, dry, and large enough to fit the vanilla beans and vodka.

How To Make the Homemade Vanilla Extract

• Use a jar that fits the vanilla beans and vodka to submerge all the beans in the liquid. Clean and dry the jar.
• Use a sharp knife and cut the side of each bean lengthwise.
• Scrape a couple of beans and add their seeds to the jar. You can also cut the beans into small pieces, about two inches.
• Pour the alcohol of your choice over the beans and ensure the liquid covers all the beans.
• Shake the jar, label it with the date and the grade of vanilla you used and keep it in a cool and dark place.
• Shake the jar every day, and you will notice the vodka becomes darker into a brown colour.
• The vanilla flavour starts manifesting after a month; however, the best result is achieved around six months.
• When the Homemade Vanilla Extract is ready, pour about 120ml through a coffee filter to remove the seeds and use it for everyday baking.
• Add more vodka to the jar as the liquid goes down, and if the extract starts losing its intensity, add a few vanilla beans.

See related recipes here;

Vanilla Ice Cream- No Churn,

Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes,

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake

📖 Recipe