Homemade Vanilla Extract (alcohol free)
This homemade vanilla extract is so easy to make and alcohol-free. Perfect for anyone who doesn't drink or doesn't have access to alcohol for making the regular version of vanilla extract.
Servings: 250 ml
Equipment
- 1 x 250ml glass bottle (must have an airtight lid)
Ingredients
- 180 ml vegetable glycerin, (food grade)
- 60 ml water, (filtered or bottled)
- 3 vanilla pods
Instructions
- Slice the vanilla pods in half lengthways and place them in a 250ml bottle. Stir together the glycerin and water in a jug. Pour the glycerin and water mixture over the vanilla pods into the bottle. Close the lid and shake to mix it about.180 ml vegetable glycerin, 60 ml water, 3 vanilla pods
- Leave in a dark place for at least 2 months to allow the vanilla flavour to infuse into the glycerin mixture. Shake the bottle once a week for best results. Can be left for much longer if necessary - the flavour will just develop further the longer it is left.
- Keep stored in a dark cupboard while using. - Once it gets to half way, you can lie the bottle on its side to keep the vanilla pods in the mixture. - Refill with another vanilla pod and more glycerin and water mixture each time you finish it and leave for another 2 months to infuse.
Notes
- Using this basic ratio of 3 parts glycerin : 1 part water, you can make the right amount for whatever sized bottle you have. The more vanilla pods you put in, the stronger it will be (but allow for displacement by the pods so use a little less liquid).
- Use a sterilised jar to avoid any bacteria growth.
- Double the recipe to make 2 bottles so that you can have a constant supply (1 infusing while using the other - then refill and switch over).
- This will not be as strongly flavoured as regular vanilla extract bought from a shop, so you will need to use more than required in recipes. I find 1 tablespoon of this homemade vanilla extract is about equivalent to 1 teaspoon of store-bought vanilla extract.
Nutrition
Serving: 5ml