Homemade Vanilla Extract

Required Supplies:

• Vodka (preferably 40% alcohol)

• Organic Grade B Vanilla Beans

• Decorative Storage Bottles

• Waterproof Printable Vinyl Labels

• Printer

• Sharpie Marker

Instructions for Making Homemade Vanilla Extract:

1. Make a lengthwise slice down one side of 4 vanilla beans.

2. Place the sliced vanilla beans in a 5 ounce storage bottle (preferably brown bottle).

3. Fill the remainder of the bottle with vodka of any choice.

4. Close the bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

5. Print custom labels - consider printing or filling in your label with "bottled on" and "ready on" dates (let the bottles sit for ~6 months before using).

6. Occasionally shake the bottle to help the vanilla beans infuse into the vodka.

Useful Tips:

• Once you begin using the vanilla extract, replace the used portion with vodka to make your extract last longer, ensuring the vanilla bean is completely submerged.

• The shelf life of this vanilla extract will be best if used within 1-2 years but can last up to 10 years if properly stored in a cool (not refrigerated), dark place.

• If you do not have a printer or are uncomfortable designing and printing labels, opt for black labels and use a white paint pen to write your label information. This can add a level of charming personalization, especially if have legible and "pretty" handwriting.

• While you can use any grade a vanilla beans, grade B vanilla beans typically will infuse the vodka more easily. Grade B vanilla beans have a more intense flavor and are more cost-effective than the grade A counterparts typically used for cooking when adding vanilla beans directly to your recipe.

• Optionally, you can add a decorative finishing touch for by adding twine, ribbons, or tags and pairing with recipes, adding to a basket of baked goods, or a cookbook as a thoughtful gift idea.