Recipe: Homemade Vanilla Extract (using vodka)

HOMEMADE VANILLA EXTRACT

2 whole vanilla beans
1 1/2 cups vodka
1/2 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar

In a 3-cup glass container with a tight-fitting lid, combine vanilla beans with the vodka. Cap and allow to "steep" at room temperature for three weeks.

Remove vanilla beans and strain liquid through a cheesecloth, if necessary.

In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and sugar, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool.

Stir into vodka that has been strained. Pour mixture into a bottle; cap and allow to sit at room temperature one month.

Makes 2 cups vanilla extract
From: Dawn