Hello everyone! I recently found out out how easy it is to make your own vanilla at home, so I thought create this post and share it with you all! All you’ll need is vanilla beans, vodka, and time!
Now before we start, there are a few things you’ll want to know.
First you’ll want to pick what kind of vanilla beans you want. There a a few different varieties, so I’d do a little research before you buy them! I chose Madagascar bean for my vanilla because they are a more creamy custard/ice cream kind of vanilla, which has a deep rich flavor. I like baking with this kind of vanilla! I found mine on amazon, I’ll be sure to post the link below!
The jars you pick is up to you. I choose 8 ounce jars for my vanilla because I can start fermenting another bottle while I have others to use. However, you don’t have to use this jar size! You can use a smaller or larger one if you’d like. If you are using these for gifts, I would recommend 4 oz jars so you don’t have to put so many beans in them! If you use a larger jar like a 16oz, you’ll just have to put more beans in the jar!
Here’s a good rule of thumb: 8oz of = 6 vanilla beans
So if your jar is 12 ounces, you’ll use 9 vanilla beans. If it’s 16 ounces, you’ll use 12 beans. Etc!
Directions:
- Cut the Vanilla beans down to fit the hight of your jar if needed.
- Then cut the Vanilla beans in half, I used some scissor’s leaving the back intact, exposing the delicious vanilla beans inside.
- Place your beans in the jar and cover it with your alcohol.
- Store them in a dark cool place.
- Note: Be sure screw the lid on tight and to give them a good shake every week or so!
Now for the hard part… vanilla needs to sit for A LEAST 2 MONTHS before using! The longer the vanilla sits, the stronger the flavor will be. Optimally I would recommend 6-12 months. If you want the flavor to be REALLY good, 12-18 months would be ideal! Keep this in mind if you need vanilla right away! But it’s still a good thing to get started now for later.
Lastly, you’ll want to put on your homemade vanilla labels with your brew date.
And you’re done!
If you like the labels, I sell them on my Etsy! They come in two different styles in sets of 10. They are oil/water resistant, and are made to last! The brew dates are customizable or can be left blank! They also come with a back with instructions if you are giving them as gifts!
I’ll leave all the links down below!
Links
I hope that helps you all! These really would make a great Christmas gift for family and friends!
Thanks for visiting!
xo, Jamie
