I feel like vanilla flavor in general is underappreciated. In our home, we are a 50/50 split as far as vanilla lovers vs. chocolate lovers. Here is the thing, though: everyone loves this recipe for Thrifty Homemade Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract!
Vanilla extract is important for the baking process. The primary purpose of vanilla extract is to add flavour to baked goods; however, the alcohol aids it too. Lacking it, baked goods tend to have a slightly different texture and taste. Vanilla extract also adds moisture and creates a soft and fluffy texture. Homemade vanilla extract is in a class of its own as far as flavor goes!
*Most ciders, distilled spirits, and liqueurs are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to purchase certified gluten-free alcohol!
Thrifty Homemade Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
1 oz vanilla beans (about 8-10 vanilla beans)
8.5-ounce glass jar or bottle with lid
1 cup (8 oz) gluten-free alcohol (at least 35% alcohol (70 proof)-vodka is common; also try rum, bourbon, or brandy)
DIRECTIONS
- Cut the beans longways and cut them into smaller pieces, and place them in the jar or bottle.
- Completely submerge the vanilla beans by adding 8 oz of your favorite gluten-free vodka, rum, bourbon, or brandy into the bottle.
- Secure the lid on the jar or bottle, label with the date, and shake your delicious concoction 1 time a week.
- Making homemade gluten-free vanilla extract takes patience. It takes about 6 – 12 months for the vanilla beans to turn the alcohol into pure, homemade vanilla extract. After 6 months, the extract is finished. The vanilla beans can be removed, but if you leave the vanilla beans in the bottle, the flavor continues to richen.
- Store your vanilla extract out of direct sunlight and at room temperature, and it will last forever, if you don’t use it up.
Try this delicious recipe and see how much better homemade vanilla extract tastes! All I can say is YUM!
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ENJOY!
Peacefully Yours,
Janelle
