Experiment: Vanilla Extract Week 6

The vanilla has reached the minimum time stated to be ready! Color-wise it looks much like what you'd find in supermarkets. Next step in this process: cookies. Stay tuned!

Experiment: Vanilla Extract Week 5

The vanilla settled into a dark brown color, with more debris resting at the bottom of the mason jar. We have one more week to go until it is ready for use. Any ideas what we should bake first?

Experiment: Vanilla Extract Week 4

Week 4 is looking good for our vanilla extract. The liquid is becoming darker, but there seems to be a bit more debris floating around. We will consider straining it before using it!

Experiment: Homemade Vanilla Extract: week 2

Our experiment enters its second week. The soon-to-be vanilla extract changed color drastically. We gave it a good shake and put it back in the cupboard. We'll check on it next week and keep you updated!

Experiment: Homemade Vanilla Extract

We came across some great vanilla beans and were at a loss at how to use them. Fortuitously, we ran out of vanilla extract at the same time! Making vanilla extract is apparently the simplest, yet flexible recipe. The alcohol base can change from vodka to rum, but we stuck with vodka.


The same rule for cooking wine, applies to this vodka. Only use vodka that you would actually consider drinking!


You'll need a jar with a tight fitting lid and a cool dark place to store it. Once finished this will last for at least a year.


We'll be documenting the process with weekly updates. Stay tuned!


Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2 months


Ingredients:

• 3 vanilla beans
• 1 cup vodka  

Sterilize the jar by submerging it in boiling water for 10 minutes. Make sure the jar is cool when ready to place the beans in.
Slice the beans in half, making sure to leave 1 inch of the stem intact. 

Place the beans in the jar and pour the vodka over it. Close the jar and store it somewhere cool and dark. Shake the container well once a week. The extract will be ready in two months and you'll notice the mixture change color throughout the process.

Vanilla extract, day 1