Homemade vanilla extract: the recipe for preparing vanilla essence

Vanilla extract or vanillin? If you are tired of buying vanilla-based aromas rich in chemical and artificial products, today we offer you a recipe that might be right for you. It is the recipe for the homemade vanilla extract, the essence that is obtained from the seeds and pods of vanilla in a completely natural way.

Preparing it at home by yourself is really simple and we assure you it's worth it, because the scent of fresh vanilla is truly irreplaceable, nothing to do with the one in vials that you can find in the supermarket. The first rule is to choose high quality vanilla beans, we recommend the Madagascar bourbon vanilla which is very fragrant.

There are several methods of preparing vanilla extract; hot or cold, with pure alcohol, with vodka or even with rum. Once prepared you can keep it in a bottle and use it to flavor creams, muffins, biscuits, ice cream and all kinds of desserts.

How to prepare homemade vanilla extract

Check that the vanilla beans are soft. Try it by rolling one around a finger, if it doesn't break and fold easily it means it's fresh and full of flavor.

Prepare the sugar syrup by placing a saucepan with water and sugar over low heat (1). Almost arrive at the boil, turn off the heat and let it cool completely. Finally add the alcohol.

Open the pods with the tip of a knife (2) and scrape the inside. Get a dark powder (3). Transfer it to an airtight jar and pour the syrup over it with alcohol. Finally add the pods, cut into pieces.

Store the jar in a cool and dry place for at least a month. Shake it once a day to spread the aroma.

Preservation

In pure alcohol, the vanilla extract can be preserved for several months closed in an airtight jar. Store it in a dry place and possibly in the dark, such as a pantry shelf.