Comments on: Vanilla Extract Follow-Up… Finally!

By: Shaky

Shaky — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 19:23:03 +0000

I use so much vanilla for my baking. I would definitely try this since I love making things from scratch or my way. I just don’t have idea where to get the vanilla beans other than the places mention above (ebay & Amadeus Vanilla Beans) Any suggestions for the Jacksonville, FL area?

By: April

April — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 19:44:37 +0000

What do you mean by “decant”? It sounds like it might just mean to pour, but before I waste any precious (expensive) vanilla beans I would like to make sure. This looks delicious!

By: Tom

Tom — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:29:02 +0000

I tried this a few years ago, using vodka. After six months I tested the homemade extract verses McCormick by mixing 1/2 tsp vanilla with a couple tablespoons of powdered sugar, and tasting the the two against each other. Verdict? Mine came nowhere near the intensity in flavor of the standard-issue McCormick. After another three or four months I came up with the same results. I decided to abort the experiment and filter my extract and simply label it as homemade vanilla vodka. ^_^

It tastes pretty good in hot chocolate.

By: Sarah C.

Sarah C. — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 02:49:03 +0000

How wonderful to stumble upon your post. I too am making homemade vanilla extract. I started some time ago and threw used pods into some vodka. Recently I sampled it and though the vanilla flavor is better than other store bought versions I have, the boozey kick is a little harsh.

I have some questions for you: 1) does that boozy kick diminish with time? 2) Do you think your vodka based extract has more alcohol taste than the rum?

By: cc

cc — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 02:43:13 +0000

Great idea. What size approximately is the big bottle? Thanks for this idea!!

By: Joyful Abode

Joyful Abode — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:48:26 +0000

Kieutie Pie, my friend Brandi told me about one of her relatives making it … a long time ago. And it stuck with me. So I finally made it myself! It does have an alcohol taste/smell, but not too strong… consider that store-bought vanilla extracts (even “100% pure”) are diluted with water. Mine isn’t. So… maybe if you wanted, you could dilute it.

Anna, it is a bit stronger. I use the same amount in baking, but if it isn’t going to be cooked (like in frosting) I use about half the amount of store-bought.

By: Anna

Anna — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:21:36 +0000

Great gift idea! Does it work exactly the same way as store bought vanilla extract? Or do you have to use more or less?

By: RegalBeads

RegalBeads — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 22:37:02 +0000

wow, how neat!

By: Kieutie Pie

Kieutie Pie — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 22:15:28 +0000

Wow! I actually hadn’t even thought of home made vanilla extract. How’d you come up with the idea? Do they still smell strongly of alcohol? I hate the taste of alcohol ={