vanilla extract

What is Vanilla Sugar?

Ingredients and Tools

• Used vanilla beans from extract-making, a few beans per cup of sugar
• Granulated sugar (1 cup per vanilla bean)
• Airtight container or jar
• Coffee grinder or spice grinder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Thoroughly rinse the used vanilla beans to remove any residual alcohol from the extract-making process.
2. Pat the beans dry with a clean towel, then air-dry them for 1-2 days. For faster results, place them in a low-temperature oven (around 170°F/75°C) for a few hours.
3. Once completely dry and brittle, break the vanilla beans into smaller pieces to fit in your grinder.
4. Using a coffee or spice grinder, grind the dried vanilla bean pieces into a fine powder. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the vanilla flavor throughout the sugar.
5. In an airtight container, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with the vanilla bean powder. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
6. Seal the container tightly and give it a good shake to further mix the vanilla powder with the sugar.
7. Let the mixture sit for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vanilla Sugar

• Ensure the vanilla beans are completely dry before grinding to prevent clumping in the sugar. This is an important step!
• Clean your grinder thoroughly after use to prevent flavor transfer to other spices.
• The vanilla flavor will intensify over time, so taste and adjust as needed.
• For a more intense vanilla flavor, use more ground vanilla bean or less sugar.

Creative Uses for Homemade Vanilla Sugar

1. Enhance your morning coffee or tea by stirring in a spoonful of vanilla sugar.
2. Elevate baked goods and desserts by substituting regular sugar with vanilla sugar in recipes.
3. Create gourmet cocktail rims by dipping glass edges in vanilla sugar.
4. Sprinkle over fresh fruit, oatmeal, or yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat.
5. Use in savory dishes, such as tomato sauces or meat rubs, for added depth of flavor.
6. Make vanilla-infused whipped cream by using vanilla sugar instead of regular sugar.
7. Create a luxurious body scrub by mixing vanilla sugar with coconut oil.

Why Make Your Own Vanilla Sugar?

• Cost-effective: Get more value from expensive vanilla beans by using them twice.
• Eco-friendly: Reduce waste by upcycling used beans that might otherwise be discarded.
• Customizable: Control the intensity of vanilla flavor to suit your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different types of vanilla beans!
• Versatile: Use in both sweet and savory recipes for a unique flavor profile.
• Gourmet touch: Elevate everyday recipes with a homemade, artisanal ingredient.
• Gift-worthy: Package your homemade vanilla sugar in decorative jars for a thoughtful, handmade gift.

Storage and Shelf Life

Ingredients and Equipment

1. 1 oz vanilla beans
2. 1 cup (8 oz) of vodka or other 70+ proof alcohol
3. A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
4. A sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by splitting the vanilla beans lengthwise using a sharp knife. This exposes the tiny seeds inside, which are packed with flavor.
2. Cut the split beans into smaller pieces, approximately 1/2 inch long. This increases the surface area, allowing for better flavor extraction.
3. Place the cut vanilla beans and any loose seeds into your clean glass jar.
4. Pour the vodka or other alcohol over the beans, ensuring they are completely submerged. The alcohol acts as a solvent, extracting the vanilla flavor compounds.
5. Seal the jar tightly with its lid and give it a vigorous shake to start the infusion process.
6. Store the jar in a cool, dark place at room temperature. A pantry or kitchen cupboard away from heat sources is ideal.
7. For the first week or two, shake the jar daily. After that, reduce the frequency to once or twice a week.
8. Allow the extract to steep for a minimum of 2 months. Before using, make sure it smells like vanilla when opening, not alcohol. For the best flavor, patience is key – waiting 6-12 months will result in a richer, more complex vanilla extract. I try to wait a whole year+! Or increase the amount of beans per 8oz of alcohol in order to speed up the extraction process a bit.

Tips for Success

• Choose high-quality vanilla beans for the best flavor. Madagascar, Tahitian, and Mexican vanilla beans are popular choices, each offering slightly different flavor profiles. I have used these or (ideally) ordered from a co-op like this in the past and REALLY liked them, but they are not always immediately available.
• The type of alcohol you use can affect the final taste. Vodka is a popular choice (and what I have always used) due to its neutral flavor, but you can experiment with rum or bourbon for different flavor notes.
• As you use your extract, you can continue to top it off with more alcohol. This "perpetual" method allows you to maintain your vanilla extract indefinitely. I don't choose to do it this way, I personally make new batches every so often so I am more clear on how long it's gone and when it's ready. Plus then I can experiment with different types of beans for flavor.
• When the flavor begins to weaken, simply add fresh vanilla beans to the jar to reinvigorate the extract. I have just taken my old beans and made vanilla sugar or thrown them in a jar with a small amount of alcohol to collect all the old beans and eventually use that down the road too. Nothing goes to waste!

Benefits of Homemade Vanilla Extract

1. Cost-effectiveness: While the initial investment in vanilla beans may seem high, homemade extract is more economical in the long run, especially for frequent bakers.
2. Quality control: You can ensure the purity of your extract by using high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial additives.
3. Customization: Experiment with different types of vanilla beans or alcohols to create unique flavor profiles.
4. Gift-giving potential: Homemade vanilla extract makes an excellent gift for food enthusiasts and home bakers. I gave vanilla extract for Christmas two years ago and everyone loved it!