Vanilla extract is basically vanilla flavor extracted in a solution. You can either use alcohol or glycerin (non-alcoholic). But commonly people use alcohol to make better vanilla extract. There are two reasons why:
1. Alcohol is great at getting vanillin from vanilla beans
2. Alcohol is a good preservative that vanilla extract has an indefinite shelf life.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
Non-Alcoholic Vanilla Extract
What you’ll need:
1. 2 Vanilla Beans
2. 120ml Vegetable Glycerin
3. 40ml Hot Water
4. Glass Bottle 200ml
How to Make:
1. Prepare the bottle
2. Split the vanilla beans and put inside the bottle. Pour in the glycerin and hot water. Give it a good shake and store it in a dark & dry place. Shake once a day, so that the vanilla seeds can be mixed well.
3. Wait until at least 2 months
4. Ready to use!
Note: Make sure that you use the food grade vegetable glycerin.
Alcoholic Vanilla Extract
Basically it’s the same with non-alcoholic one. But we are going to use vodka instead of glycerin.
The ingredients
1. 500ml Vodka (80 Proof)
2. 5 Vanilla Beans
3. Glass Bottle 500 ml
How to Make
1. Split the beans and put inside the bottle, pour in the vodka. Make sure to tighten the bottle.
2. Shake and store in dark & dry place. Don’t forget to give it a good shake once a day.
3. Wait for up to 6 months (at least 8 weeks).
4. Ready to use!
Useful Tips: Use a funnel to pour the alcohol or glycerin to make it easier.
Note: Vanilla extract is like aged wine. So the longer you wait, the flavor will get stronger.
Yes, it is taking quiet long time to make your own vanilla extract. But if you are not in urgently needs for the extract, it is something that you have to try!