You really want to avoid “imitation vanilla” that typically contains a synthetic compound called vanillin. However, it’s not derived from real vanilla beans. Vanillin is often made from wood pulp or guaiacol (a substance derived from petrochemicals).
Along with vanillin, imitation vanilla usually contains:
- Corn syrup or other sweeteners
- Coloring agents, like caramel color (to mimic the brown hue of real vanilla extract)
- Other chemicals or flavor enhancers to round out the flavor
So while imitation vanilla can mimic the flavor of vanilla, it’s definitely NOT the real deal, it’s full of junk and lacks the complexity and richness of pure vanilla extract. Once this is ready you can use it to elevate your Brownie Batter Dip, Easy Wheat Puff Cereal & Strawberry Walnut Cereal!
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Ingredients
Vodka or Rum
Vanilla Beans- These are what I used 50 Tahitian Extract Grade B Natural Vanilla Beans
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Instructions
- First we need to prep the beans. Some people strip the bean down the center, but I like to cut them into 1/2 inch pieces because it’s faster when I’m making it in bulk!
- Toss the vanilla beans into your jar or bottle, and pour in the vodka (or rum) until the beans are fully submerged. Make sure there’s enough room for the liquid to slosh around. I use wide mouth mason jars and these screw on lids from amazon but a swing top bottle would be great also!
- Give the jar a little shake to mix things up. Then, put it somewhere cool and dark.
- Now, the hard part. Let it sit for at least 4-6 weeks, shaking it every few days (or whenever you think about it). The vanilla beans will infuse the alcohol with that rich vanilla flavor.
- Once your vanilla extract has that deep, yummy flavor you’re craving, it’s ready to use. You can strain out the beans or leave them in for extra flavor, depending on how fancy you’re feeling.
- Boom, you’ve got homemade vanilla extract! Use it in baking, add it to your morning coffee! The one on the left was just made and the one on the right is over a year old!
Homemade Vanilla
Making your own vanilla is super easy! Grab your vanilla beans, some vodka (or rum), and let’s make some real vanilla! You can get pure vanilla in the stores, but typically this is going to be a cheaper and better option!
WHATEVER YOU DO, you want to avoid "Imitation vanilla" that typically contains a synthetic compound called vanillin. However, it’s not derived from real vanilla beans. Vanillin is often made from wood pulp or guaiacol (a substance derived from petrochemicals).
Along with vanillin, imitation vanilla usually contains:
Corn syrup or other sweeteners
Coloring agents, like caramel color (to mimic the brown hue of real vanilla extract)
Other chemicals or flavor enhancers to round out the flavor
So while imitation vanilla can mimic the flavor of vanilla, it’s definitely NOT the real deal, it's full of junk and lacks the complexity and richness of pure vanilla extract.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rum or Vodka
- 1 oz of Vanilla beans (approximately 8 beans)
Instructions
- Cut the vanilla beans into 1/2" pieces. Place in jar/bottle of your choice.
- Add the liquor and shake.
- Shake every day or so for 4-6 weeks minimum before you begin to use it.
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