How to Make Vanilla From Vanilla Beans

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By Willow Sidhe
eHow Contributing Writer

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Vanilla beans

Vanilla is the most commonly used flavoring in the United States, and is made from the pods of the vanilla plant. These pods can be 8 to 12 inches in length, with a smooth, black surface. Vanilla can be made at home with vanilla beans, but significant time is required for the beans to infuse their flavor into a usable extract. This recipe yields approximately 1 pint, or 2 cups, of vanilla. It can be used to flavor sweet foods such as ice cream or baked goods, or anywhere else vanilla extract is required.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

6 whole vanilla beans
1 pint (70 proof) vodka
Quart-sized glass jar
Fine mesh sieve
Dark colored glass bottles
Labels

Step 1

Cut the vanilla beans lengthwise using scissors. Begin at one end and cut up the center of each bean, leaving the last inch uncut to keep the bean together.
Step 2

Pour the vodka into the glass jar, and then place the cut vanilla beans into the jar with the cut end down. Push them down into the vodka until they are fully submerged.
Step 3

Place the lid onto the glass jar and secure tightly in place. Move the jar into a cool, dark place such as a kitchen cupboard. Allow the vanilla to stand for 4 to 8 weeks without disturbing. The longer the vanilla stands, the more potent it will become.
Step 4

Strain the vanilla through a fine mesh sieve to remove the vanilla beans. Pour the liquid into dark colored glass bottles for storage. Label with the contents and store in a dark place for up to six months.

Tips & Warnings

For the best results, use premium vanilla beans rather than dried. Purchase whole vanilla beans in specialty food stores, or order them online. Brandy or whiskey may be used in place of vodka, if necessary. Any alcohol will work, as long as its strength is at least 70 proof. As the vanilla sits, it will turn a dark amber color. This is normal, and means that the vanilla beans are infusing the alcohol with their flavor.