Home Crafted Holidays - Vanilla Extract

I am participating in Domestic Witch's Home Crafted Holidays to help give ideas for home-made gifts to give during Yule.

My day is actually this coming Wednesday, but to make sure I was able to post it online with all the Turkey Day stress and last minute "To-Do's", I am posting it a few days early.

What you need - Phase 1










1 or two Vanilla Beans
1 pint of your favorite vodka
1 jar with lid

I like to slit the vanilla bean right down the middle. Then I cut it into smaller pieces. Place the cut up bean into a large jar with a tight fitting lid.











Then pour the vodka over the beans. Put the cap on and shake it gently for a few minutes.




Place the jar in a cool, dry, dark place. I use my kitchen cabinet as you can see in the photo. Shake the jar daily for two weeks minimum. I have gone as long as six weeks.












Phase 2
Needs:
Cheese cloth or coffee filter
Some kind of funnel
Something to strain the liquid into or the final bottle for presentation.













After the time you have decided to let your tincture set, you will need to strain it. I usually strain it two times to make sure the liquid is clear.













After straining, place it in a decorative bottle if you are giving it out as a gift.