Shelf Life on Vanilla Beans?

[MareMare]

Hey, does anyone know if old vanilla beans are still good to use? I'm talking 6+ years. I'm guessing they would lose some flavor but still be usable? I wanted to make some vanilla extract but don't want to waste the vodka if my beans are bad!

[felix-xx]

A vanilla bean is a 'pod' from an orchid. I would treat it in the same way I would treat other flowery items - if it's not fuzzy, it's good to go! I've had some in my kitchen for around 3 years (because who really uses that much vanilla bean?) and I've used it recently to make creme brulee and they were delish. Still had that awesome vanilla flavor!

[MareMare]

Thanks! I'll get some vodka and give it a go! Also maybe some vanilla sugar...

[Aislynn]

I'm so glad you posted this!  A friend of mine gave me some vanilla beans, and now I know that I have PLENTY of time to figure out what to do with them!

[MareMare]

haha, thanks Aisy! I actually bought them in a co-op years ago and planned to use them in soaping/B&B somehow. It was a co-op with soapy groups anyways.

[txweekendchef]

I keep mine in a vacuum sealed food saver bag that I reseal after grabbing one out. So far they have lasted a couple of years. Don't think they will make it to 6 years though...