So many of the things I like to bake include vanilla extract. The quality of your vanilla extract can really make or break your baking. The only logical idea to me was to create my own!!It is surprisingly simple! I bought my vanilla bean at two different stores. I bought the first jar in Syracuse at a specialty kitchen store for ~$8 US. The second jar I pick up at Natural Food Pantry for (~$10). As you can see the beans them self are not cheap! I have since found a cheaper option online @ www.beanilla.com. They sell a variety of vanilla bean products as well as glassware. When I looked they had an option to buy 25 beans for $25!
I chose Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans
I was able to find my glass jar at Dollarama for $2!!
The first step is to cut the beans in half and then split them lengthwise so that you expose the beans in the middle of the bean.
I used 4 full vanilla beans and placed the cut pieces in the glass jar. I then used 2 cups of vodka. Inexpensive brands are fine to use to make vanilla extract! So I just used some vodka that was lying around the house.
After adding the vodka you have to let the brewing extract sit in a cool dark place for 8 weeks!! It is recommended to give it a shake/swirl once a week. My extract is hiding in the basement and I will update how it turns out in about 8 weeks from now! I can't wait to start baking with it!!
