Homemade Vanilla Extract via Oven Method

Ingredients

- 5 whole vanilla beans
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup 80-proof vodka or rum (ensure it is unflavored)

Instructions

1. Preparation:

- Preheat your oven to 175°F. The low and steady heat will help infuse the flavors effectively.
- Split the vanilla beans lengthwise using a sharp paring knife, exposing the aromatic seeds inside. Do not remove the seeds from the pods.

2. Combining Ingredients:

- In an oven-safe jar or glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid, place the split vanilla beans.
- Add equal parts (1 cup) of water and alcohol to the jar, ensuring the vanilla beans are fully submerged. If necessary, cut the beans into smaller segments to fit them in the jar.

3. Oven Infusion:

- Seal the jar or bottle tightly with the lid and place it on a baking sheet for easy transfer.
- Place the pan with the jar in the preheated oven.
- Let the mixture infuse in the oven for 2 hours. This time allows the flavors of the vanilla to meld wonderfully with the liquid.

4. Cooling and Storing:

- Carefully remove the jar from the oven using oven mitts, as it will be hot.
- Allow the jar to cool to room temperature.
- Once cool, give it a gentle shake and transfer it to a dark cupboard to rest for an additional four weeks. Shake the jar once a week to encourage further flavor development.

5. Final Touch:

- After four weeks, the homemade vanilla extract is ready to use in your favorite dessert recipes, adding rich, authentic vanilla flavor.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time:
PT15M
15 minutes

- Cooking Time:
PT2H
2 hours

- Additional Resting Time:
P28D
4 weeks

Total Time

P29DT2H15M
4 weeks, 2 hours, 15 minutes

Type of Dish

Dessert, Baking Ingredient

Keywords

Vanilla extract, Homemade vanilla, Dessert enhancer, Baking ingredient, Vanilla bean recipe, Oven vanilla, Easy vanilla extract, DIY flavoring, Natural vanilla, Flavor infusion

Recipe Yield

Yields 1 cup of homemade vanilla extract (perfect for many desserts)

Calories

Total Calories: 700

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