1 pint size glass jar or bottle with tight fitting lid (you can save jars you have purchased other things in, just clean and sanitize it)
2-4 whole vanilla beans
about 16 oz vodka, OR bourbon (the higher proof the better, but don't break the bank over making vanilla)
A leftover vanilla bottle, or some other small bottle (you won't need this immediately)
Cut the vanilla beans lengthwise, leaving the tips in tact. Place the beans in the jar and fill it to the top with the vodka (or bourbon). Keep it in a dark, cool place and shake it every few days, or whenever you think about it. It will be ready in 2-4 months. Keep a nose on it, and when you smell more vanilla than spirits, it is likely ready to use.
That's it.
Once you make the initial pint, ideally, after it has set about 4 months, fill a smaller bottle for every day use. Replenish the vodka in the original jar and let steep until you are ready to refill your kitchen bottle, allowing at least a couple weeks in between. You can do this over and over for several years, until you begin to notice a decline in potency.
Where to buy the beans:
If you live anywhere near a city, chances are you have a "World Market" somewhere near you, and they sell whole vanilla beans (2 pack) for $2.99. You can also buy them online from them www.worldmarket.com, but I have no idea their shipping rates. Chances are you can find them in a bulk section of a health food store, for a couple dollars a piece.
Like I said, the vodka or bourbon doesn't matter too much, but the higher proof the more potent it will become. So having said that, you can make about 1 liter of vanilla extract that can stretch for years for as little as $10-15.
I've always wanted to make my own, it tastes way better than the fake stuff at the store...one of these days when I am getting low on Vanilla I will have to try it. My mom's friend made vanilla for Christmas presents one year, it was the best vanilla I have ever had.
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