Vanilla Extract - from Shayla

[Wonder]

Hmmmmm, it was so long ago I can't remember but I'm thinking maybe I didn't.

[fundj&e]

  pull them out and chop them up with a pair of scissors and squeeze the beans out

[judydawn]

I just put whole beans (about 20) in my bottle of vodka and it has made amazing vanilla without removing the ends or chopping them up.   If I use a vanilla bean out of there for a recipe I just pop the seedless bean back into the bottle.  Things seem to be working well for me.

[Cuilidh]

I pulled the vanilla beans out of the jar last night and chopped off the ends then chopped the pods into smaller pieces as well.  I didn't scrape out the seeds, but the pods had been cut open initially so they should have been capable of flavouring the vodka.  I will keep shaking and hoping that all will be well ... I've still got two months to go till Xmas!

[Frozzie]

Made a batch of this last week after never getting to use my two batches in france.. Just put 12 or so split vanilla beans into a bottle of vodka.. Will have to remember to shake..lol.. At least i will get to enjoy this one!!

[Cornish Cream]

Still shaking it regularly and is looking good

[Slice of Health]

Mine is exactly 2 months old now, nice and dark and beginning to use it. It's still a bit 'vodka-y' but will get even better with age. If I gave any as gifts at this point or even at Xmas, I would make sure there are a couple of vanilla beans in the smaller bottle to it can keep brewing further for the recipient. I have also made a small bottle of kaffir lime leaf extract which is coming along nicely and keen to try lemon and orange when I find some organic citrus fruits.

[Lucyluu]

Just making a batch of this for Christmas thought I'd give it a bump.

[Cuilidh]

Good timing, Lucyluu

[cookie1]

You are certainly a planner. Well done.