Vanilla Extract Substitute

By karenstl

Ingredients

• 4 vanilla beans (you can also use 3 vanilla beans)
• 1 liter vodka

Details

Servings 1
Preparation time 5mins
Cooking time 5mins
Adapted from futureexpat.com

Preparation

Step 1

Using a steak knife or a sharp small knife, gently score each of the vanilla beans by cutting the length of the bean without cutting all the way through the bean. Use your fingers to pull the cut sides apart to expose the seeds inside the bean.

Cut the vanilla beans into pieces about 2-3 inches long.

Drop the cut beans into the vodka bottle. If you are using a brand new bottle, you’ll want to make yourself a drink first, since adding the beans will make the vodka overflow.

Put the cap back on the bottle, make the date on the bottle and place the bottle in a dark, cool place. Inside the pantry or a liquor cabinet is perfect.

Leave the bottle untouched for 1-3 months. The longer it sits, the stronger the vanilla flavor.

When you are ready to use the vanilla extract, pour a small amount out of the bottle into a smaller bottle. I use a single serving wine bottle. Be sure to use a strainer of some sort (either an actual strainer, cheesecloth or a coffee filter) to prevent the vanilla seeds from getting into the small bottle.