Holiday Gift Idea: Homemade Vanilla Extract (How to Make It)

[NicoleMarie]

Super easy, super great gift!


This is an economical gift with a lot of heart.  I made 12 of these this year for teachers, babysitters, coaches, etc.  

What You Need:

• A dozen 4oz. Boston Round Bottles
• Unflavored Vodka
• Fresh Vanilla Beans (I used organic)

How to Make It:
Sterilize your bottles.


Cut the Vanilla Beans in half, then slice lengthwise to expose the bean paste (but don't scrape it out).
Place about 4 Vanilla halves into each bottle and fill the bottle with Vodka.
A funnel makes this super easy.


Make up some labels on your computer and stick them on.  Finish with a nice ribbon.


IMPORTANT:  You need to let these steep for about 2 months before using.  You either need to plan ahead, or include a little note letting the recipient know when they can use it!

Enjoy!

See the full post on my blog: http://sewplicity.blogspot.com/2012/12/a-gift-worth-giving-homemade-vanilla.html

[Myrdda]

Your labels are lovely - and this is such a wonderful idea. Vanilla extract is scary once you realize what's actually in it. I'm doing up a batch of this, and it's taken more than two months to negate the intense alcohol smell / flavour. I would definitely be aware that it's not a precise timeline. I'm so impatient for it to be done!