Save money by making your own extracts! A small bottle of pure vanilla extract usually costs about $9. This recipe lets you make your own vanilla and other flavors at home, saving you money and giving you the ability to create the BEST frostings with the rich, natural flavors of homemade extracts—way better than store-bought!
ThThis is another fermentation process that requires more time than the Apple Scrap Vinegar. It will take at least 6 months to complete, but it’s a simple “prep and leave it alone” project.
There are many types of extracts you can make. Here are a few that I either already make or plan to make in the future:
- Vanilla Extract
- Strawberry Extract
- Almond Extract
- Lemon Extract
Extracts make fantastic homemade gifts and are a great option if you’re looking for an easy, yet highly rewarding, project to do at home!
Be sure to comment below or tag us on social media if you’ve tried this recipe!
From the TREAT$ kitchen
Extracts
Yield
Makes 3 (8.5 oz) bottles of extract.
Ingredients
Equipment
- (3) Swing-top bottles (8.5 oz) or mason jars
- Funnel for filling the bottles
Instructions
The prep work for each type of extract is different. For the first part of the instructions, choose the option you prefer:
Option 1 – Starting Vanilla Extract:
- Slice each vanilla bean lengthwise, exposing the beans inside.
- Add 5 split vanilla beans to each swing-top bottle.
Option 2 – Starting Strawberry Extract:
- For strawberry extract, measure 1/8 cup of freeze-dried strawberries or 1/4 cup of fresh strawberries. Freeze-dried strawberries will give a stronger flavor.
Assembling the Extract:
- Using a funnel, carefully fill each swing-top bottle with Aristocrat vodka. Leave a little space at the top—just enough to cover the vanilla beans or strawberry pieces.
- Close the swing-top bottle securely and wipe the outside with a disinfectant wipe to prevent mold. Let the bottles dry.
- Label and Store – Label each bottle with the end date (6 months from today) and store in a cool, dark place for 6 months.
- Monitor for Mold – Periodically check the bottles for any mold. If you find mold on the outside, clean it off. If mold appears inside, discard the extract.
- Strain the Extract – After 6 months, strain the extract to remove any solids. Keep the vanilla beans—they can be reused! Discard any fruit or fruit peels as they’ve likely lost their flavor.
- Final Use & Storage – The extract is now ready to use! You can start using it right away, or continue fermenting for a stronger flavor. Store it in a swing-top bottle, mason jar, or repurposed bottle in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Feel free to use any type of vanilla bean you like, such as Tahitian or other varieties.
- Keep in mind that each bean will offer a unique flavor, so it’s worth doing a little research!
- You can also experiment with extracts made from fruit peels (like lemon, lime, or orange), fruits, herbs, and nuts.
- There’s no need to make this large of a batch-start small and adjust the ingredients to suit your needs.
TREAT$ by Emoni · treatsbyemoni.com
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