Handmade Vanilla Extract

Handmade Vanilla Extract with Vodka and Spiced Rum

Vanilla extract is a kitchen staple, used in a wide variety of baked goods and desserts. While it’s readily available in stores, making your own vanilla extract can be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. Did you know that the majority of Vanilla Extract is not made with real Vanilla? If you’ve only ever used imitation vanilla extract, then you’ll love the flavors that this homemade Vanilla Extract give. 

Today, I will guide you through the process of making vanilla extract using two different spirits: vodka and spiced rum. Each method results in a unique flavor profile, adding a delightful twist to your culinary creations.

You can follow these recipes below, they’re pretty straight forward. Or, you can follow this basic bean to vodka ratio. For every 4 oz, use 3-4 beans. Real easy. Today, I have 10 4oz pop top bottles that I will be making my extract in. They’re going to sit for 4-8 weeks. Each day I’ll shake each bottle. The vanilla beans stay inside the bottle, and you can easily top off the bottle when it’s half empty to make more. As long as your beans stay submerged and don’t grow any fuzziness, they’ll last indefinitely in the alcohol. 

Vanilla Extract Recipes

Vanilla Extract with Vodka

Ingredients:

– 3-4 whole vanilla beans

– 4 oz of vodka (at least 40% alcohol by volume)

– A glass bottle with a tight-sealing cap

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Beans: Use a sharp knife to split the vanilla beans lengthwise, exposing the tiny seeds inside. Leave the beans intact at one end to help release flavor.

2. Combine Beans and Vodka: Place the split vanilla beans in the glass bottle. Pour the vodka over the beans, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the bottle tightly.

3. Shake and Store: Give the bottle a good shake to distribute the vanilla seeds. Store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 months, shaking it gently every week. The longer it sits, the richer the flavor will become.

4. Enjoy: After the aging period, your homemade vanilla extract is ready to use. It will have a sweet, classic vanilla flavor with subtle floral notes from the beans.

Flavor Profile: The vodka-based vanilla extract offers a pure and classic vanilla flavor with a clean, slightly floral aroma. It’s perfect for enhancing the taste of your baked goods and desserts without any added complexity.

Vanilla Extract with Spiced Rum

Ingredients:

– 6-8 whole vanilla beans

– 1 cup of spiced rum

– A glass bottle with a tight-sealing cap

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Beans: Follow the same steps as with the vodka method, splitting the vanilla beans lengthwise.

2. Combine Beans and Spiced Rum: Place the split vanilla beans in the glass bottle, and pour the spiced rum over them, ensuring full submersion. Seal the bottle tightly.

3. Shake and Store: Give the bottle a gentle shake to disperse the vanilla seeds. Store it in a cool, dark place for a minimum of 2 months, shaking it occasionally. The longer it ages, the more robust the flavor will be.

4. Enjoy: Once your spiced rum-based vanilla extract has matured, you can use it in your recipes. It will have a warm, complex flavor profile with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and other spices.

Flavor Profile: The spiced rum-infused vanilla extract boasts a rich, warm flavor with a subtle hint of spices. It adds depth and complexity to your desserts, making it an excellent choice for holiday baking and cocktails.

Making vanilla extract at home allows you to customize its flavor by choosing different spirits. Whether you prefer the classic purity of vodka or the warm complexity of spiced rum, your homemade vanilla extract will elevate your culinary creations with its unique and delightful flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting with these homemade extracts in your favorite recipes!