One of my goals for 2012 is to make and use ingredients from scratch. First up: vanilla extract! This was my first time making my own vanilla extract, and I couldn't believe how easy it was! I gave away my first batch as gifts at Christmastime, but I just ordered more bottles to make some for myself.
DIY Vanilla Extract
3 whole vanilla beans per 8 oz of alcohol
clean glass bottles or jars
high-proof alcohol like vodka, bourbon or rum (I used vodka)
Split three vanilla beans lengthwise and place in a clean glass bottle or jar. Pour 8 ounces of alcohol over the beans. Seal the bottle tightly. Store in a dark, cool place for two months. Shake the bottle occasionally. After two months, your vanilla is ready!
Oh I love this!! Such a fun hostess gift! Great idea :)
ReplyDeleteno way!! That is so cool Sherri! Love your ideas.
ReplyDeleteWill have to remember this one to try soon:)
So much fun and who doesn't love to have a pretty bottle to use when they're baking. Might have to try this for some b day presents.
ReplyDeleteThat is so funny - my mother-in-law gave me vanilla beans in my Christmas stocking to do this very thing! She has been doing it for years. I am so excited to try it. Isn't it awesome? and so cheap??
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed! This doesn't look too hard, but knowing me, I will probably stick to store bought vanilla...don't hate ;)
ReplyDeleteIs it really that simple?! I'm amazed!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. I could have used this for Christmas gifts...
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to make my own vanilla extract. Love the jars too!
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed, and the little bottles and tags are adorable!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this--I've been waiting :) I can't wait to make some soon!
ReplyDeleteThese are so great and I just LOVE the bottle you used too! Such a nice gift!
ReplyDelete- Sarah
http://agirlintransit.blogspot.com
Hmmm very interesting...I think I am going to have to try this! I'm sure it's better and probably less expensive than buying it!
ReplyDeletewhat a great idea! this would be such a cute party favor too! love how yours turned out!
ReplyDeleteOh I love this idea. So sweet! :)
ReplyDeletewow! what a cool gift to give. will have to be organized enough to start making this months in advance :)
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to do this! So cool.
ReplyDeleteWow! So awesome! I forget sometimes of thinks that could be made from scratch!
ReplyDeleteOh my word, so doing this!! I put vanilla extract in everything!
ReplyDeletewwo. this is totally badass. i wouldn't expect any less from you, though.
ReplyDeleteReally? That's it? I should have been making this stuff years ago!!
ReplyDeleteAwesome!! I'm looking forward to what else you'll be making from scratch!
ReplyDeleteso impressive!!!
ReplyDeleteI am so doing this. I had to send my hubby to the store the other day because I ran out and I realized how much I go through. Hopefully it's more cost effective...or...at least better quality :)
ReplyDeleteI've got to remember this for Christmas presents next year!
ReplyDeleteNext, you should make your own marshmallows with that vanilla extract. It's really a nice way to display the homemade vanilla flavor ;)
ReplyDeleteI made these for Christmas! I actually waited too long to start the project so they weren't fully mature... but they were so cute and everyone was impressed! I love your labels!
ReplyDeleteSherri!
ReplyDeleteDo you take the beans out after the 2 months are up, or do you leave them in as long as you use the vanilla? Can't wait to make these!! :)
I leave the beans in there for as long as I use the vanilla :)
DeleteAwesome, thanks! This might be a dumb question, but does it turn out well? Do you notice a difference between store-bought?
DeleteYes, I can tell a difference between homemade and store-bought! Homemade has a richer vanilla taste, and it's much more fragrant than store-bought.
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