If you do a lot of baking, you are probably aware of the high cost of vanilla. It is not unusual to pay five dollars or more for a small bottle. Imitation vanilla is less expensive, but in no way does it live up to the real thing.

Real vanilla is pricey because of the way vanilla beans are grown. Believe it or not, they are still hand pollinated. It can take five to six years, from the planting stage till it’s bottled and ready for purchase.

The good news is you can make vanilla extract, at home, for a fraction of the cost. Because it is usually made in large quantities, it is very easy to give as a gift… either at holiday time or just because.

To make vanilla extract at home, all that is needed is high quality vanilla beans and vodka. Cut 15 to 18 vanilla beans into small pieces. Add to a1/5 of bottle of vodka, minus about 4 ounces… the higher the quality the better. Absolute is recommended.

Place bottle in a dark closet, for about eight weeks. Shake every two to three days. To use, strain extract through a paper towel or a coffee filter and transfer into to a small bottle with tight fitting lid.

Posted on August 8th, 2008 by Merry