DIY Vanilla Extract

Who knew?

Making your own vanilla extract is pretty much the easiest thing in the world. And it's SOOO much cheaper buying from the store (even from Trader Joe's!).  

All you need is: 

• Vanilla Beans (about 3-6 beans per 8 ounces of extract)
• Vodka
• Glass Jars

The first place I looked for vanilla beans was the supermarket.  The only thing I found was a Spice Islands jar for $8.99, with only ONE bean in it.  What the what?

I found a much better deal online.  And I found these perfect glass jars when I was ordering some herbs from this awesome site. 

The best smelling package I've ever received.

Using a sharp knife, slice the beans open. The insides look like wet coffee grounds, and the actual beans don't actually smell too great close up (color me disappointed).

Slide your beans into your bottle (I had to bend mine in half), fill with vodka, recap and you're good to go!
I've even seen people make the extract right inside the bottle of vodka, clever, but a little too bulky for me.

Let the bottles sit in a dark place for about 2-3 months, and give them an occasional shake to keep things going.

And that's it! Soon I'll have an abundance of vanilla, which I add to SO many things, including my favorite granola.

I considered making cutesy labels for these, but didn't (I know what they are:)).  But I think if I did they would make a great addition to a gift basket or something... I feel like I might get crafty this Christmas.