I bought these magnificent vanilla beans at Costco. After talking to my friend Stephanie, I decided to take a few of them and make vanilla my own vanilla extract. We had both read a post back in September from Bake at 350 on how to make your own vanilla extract with vodka. I wanted to change it up a bit and do mine with bourbon. Luckily Dave is a bourbon fan, so I raided his stash and asked his advice for a good one and went to work.
It couldn’t be easier!
Take three vanilla beans, cut down the length of the vanilla bean {but not completely through} and put in a clean jar or bottle. Cover with bourbon and tuck away in a dark place for 2-3 months.
The vanilla pods will release their seeds and the bourbon will get darker and absorb the scent and flavor. Give it a shake every once in awhile. Use just as you would vanilla extract. This also makes a really incredible DIY Christmas gift for foodie friends.
Mmmm. Maker's Mark.
ReplyDeleteWho knew? What a great gift.
ReplyDeleteSo can this be used just like vanilla extract in baking or do is it more of a specialty item?
I use bourbon vanilla in all my baking. It is wonderful!
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