Vanilla Extract FAQS:
Why Grade B beans? Gorgeous grade A beans, with their plump and shiny appearance have a higher moisture content. Chefs love them, as their flavor is more easily absorbed into a dish. However, due to the higher moisture content, they have less vanillin per ounce. When we are making extract, we want the uglier, smaller, wrinkled, yet more flavorful Grade B beans.
How do I make extract? It's easy! Remove beans from jar, slice in half the long way, to expose the vanilla seeds. Put back in jar and fill jar with alcohol, making sure to completely cover beans. Shake + wait!
How many beans do I need? Official single-fold vanilla is made with 13 oz of vanilla beans per gallon. Double-fold vanilla is twice this amount.
- To make 1 cup (8 fluid ounces) of single-fold extract, you will need 22 grams (0.8 oz) or 5-8 beans vanilla beans. See our DIY kit here.
- To make 1 quart (32 fluid ounces) of single-fold extract, you will need 93 grams (3.3 oz) or 20-30 beans. Buy bulk beans here.
What else do I need?
- Vodka or bourbon! If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can use food-grade glycerin.
- Time! Bottle should sit 6-8 weeks; 6 months is better.
Gneiss Spice is plastic-free, why are bulk beans sealed in plastic? Vanilla beans are more fragile than spices. We decided to purchase bulk beans packed by our supplier in 3.3 oz vacuum sealed plastic packets so they can be shipped straight to you, minimizing extra waste and guaranteeing they stay fresh until you decide to open them. We'll continue to explore other option. For plastic-free vanilla, check out our DIY kits shipped in glass bottles.
