DIY ALERT! Homemade Vanilla Extract

This year I'm making quite a few DIY gifts for Christmas.  I absolutely love Vanilla Extract and use it alot in my baking.  So when I found out how easy and delicious it is to make your own, I had to do it.  It can get quite expensive to keep buying a good quality in stores, so I'm confidant this will be a successful alternative.  

First things first- this is a very easy process, but not quick.  After all is said and done, these creations must seep for approx. 3 months!  So if you plan to make some for Christmas as well, you better get on it asap!

Supplies Needed:

Vanilla Beans - bought thru this ebay seller Here
4oz Bottles with caps - I bought them Here
Vodka - You don't need to pick a really expensive one, but don't pick a cheap one either! I used Smirnoff.
Misc Supplies- Funnel or measuring cup, knife or scissors, cutting board

This is so easy-peasy a child can do it! Literally - mine did!

Take the full vanilla beans and cut in half to fit in the bottle.  Stuff 3 of them in there.. this should equal 1 1/2 full vanilla beans.  You can add more, but it's not necessary. 

With your measuring cup or funnel, fill the bottle with vodka and twist the cap on. 

Taaa dah! You are all done!  Now, for the waiting game... each day the vodka will get darker, so continue to keep in a lighted area for approximately 3 mons.  

Ready to use?  No need to strain!  Pour on!
Don't forget to leave a comment about how yours turned out! 

 

Supplies We Used

 

Filled Bottles

 

Bottles- 24 hrs later