Create your own organic vanilla extract; make extra for family and friends.
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 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 80-proof 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.
- 1 cup (8 fluid ounces) of single-fold vanilla extract = 23 grams (0.8 oz) or 5-8 vanilla beans. See our DIY kit here.
- 1 pint (16 fluid ounces) of single-fold vanilla extract = 47 grams (1.7 oz) or 10-18 vanilla beans.
- 1 quart (32 fluid ounces) of single-fold vanilla extract = 94 grams (3.3 oz) or 20-30 vanilla beans. Buy bulk beans here.
- Double the weight of beans to make double-fold vanilla extract.
- We do not recommend making extract in quantities smaller than 1 cup.
- 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.