Add the two split vanilla beans to the brandy. Cork it/put lid back on. Let sit for 2 months before using.
By Irishwitch from Aurora, CO
This page contains the following solutions.
Vanilla extract gets expensive if you bake a lot and, with the holidays approaching, there is always that annoying discovery of an empty extract bottle.
Vanilla extract is a welcome gift any time of the year, and especially during the holidays. The instant pot decreases the waiting time to use the vanilla extract from 2 months to about 2 weeks. Homemade extract is significantly cheaper than store-bought.
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I want to purchase vanilla beans to make my own vanilla extract. I do not like imitation vanilla. I'm not sure of the quantity of beans to purchase so I was wondering what are other uses for these beans?
By Judy from Mt. Pleasant, MI
Various recipes here to choose from ;-) I am not sure what you would be able to use the beans for after you make the extract though :-(
You leave the beans in the extract so you can make more! They will not go bad as the alcohol serves as a preservative. When I make it I use a 1/2 pint of vodka or very good brandy. Split 3 vanilla beans longwise but not all of the way through. Add to the liquor & shake. Put the bottle where you will see it & shake well a few times a week. It will take 2 to 6 months (sometimes longer) for your vanilla to 'make'.
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I always make my own Vanilla extract. It's much tastier and when I make in bulk, I give away the extra as Christmas gifts in bottles I get at the dollar store. Just go to the liquor store and buy a fifth of Everclear. Buy 3 vanilla beans, split them down the middle and open a bit and drop them in the bottle.
Has anyone made their own Vanilla Extract? I read somewhere that you can soak Vanilla beans in Rum and that does it, but I am wondering if anyone has had experience with this and what the proportions would be?