Making Vanilla Extract: A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you love vanilla extract as much as I do? When I found organic Madagascar vanilla beans at Costco, I knew I had to make my vanilla extract. I decided to try a few different types of alcohol to see which one would produce the best flavor in eight weeks. The problem with store-bought vanilla extract is that it may not be as healthy as you might think. That's why I want to show you how to make your own, healthy vanilla extract instead of spending a fortune on it. It's much easier than it sounds, so let's delve deeper into the vanilla extract and learn how to make your delicious syrup.

The History and Origins of Vanilla Extract

Vanilla was first discovered in the Caribbean and South America several centuries ago. People have been indulging in this decadent flavor for centuries. It was first cultivated by the Totonacs, a tribe from Mexico. When the Aztecs conquered the Totonacs in the 15th century, they obtained the vanilla that the Totonacs had been cultivating. I can imagine that this must have been the ancient equivalent of taking candy from a baby. A few decades later, the Spanish conquered the Aztecs and they too could not resist the temptation of taking whatever vanilla they could find. Vanilla then somehow made its way into the hands of Hernán Cortés, who imported it into Europe along with other goods he traded at the time. Instead of using sugar like we do today, the Aztecs added vanilla to their chocolate drink, which sounds like a delicious combination to me! Many Europeans soon followed in their footsteps. In the 17th century, an apothecary named Hugh Morgan invented sweets made entirely of vanilla while he was employed by Queen Elizabeth I. The real magic happened in the 1700s when Thomas Jefferson came up with a recipe for ice cream, which became the vanilla ice cream we know today. Thank you, Thomas Jefferson! Apart from ice cream, it took quite a bit of time before vanilla was added to recipe books. The first time vanilla was recorded in a recipe book was in "The Art of Cooking" in 1805. In the latter half of the 1800s, vanilla's popularity skyrocketed and it was added to drinks and other sweet treats. Unfortunately, the price of vanilla also skyrocketed and it remains an expensive ingredient to this day.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Vanilla Extract 

Let's be honest, it's much easier and more convenient to go to the store and buy vanilla extract. However, buying vanilla extract from a store isn't always the best idea. Store-bought vanilla extract isn't as healthy as you might think. It often contains a variety of additives and preservatives that make it unhealthy to consume. If you make your vanilla extract, you will be able to consume it in its natural state, which is much healthier and just as tasty. Believe it or not, even store-bought items labeled as "natural" or "organic" can contain a lot of sugar, corn syrup, artificial or natural flavoring, and caramel color. You'll be surprised when you start reading the labels of the products you buy! I always love the idea of homemade ingredients because you know exactly what you will find in your final product. Non-GMO options are also possible. I didn't realize that even store-bought vanilla extract could contain GMO alcohol until I read this post from Mommypotamus. She gives some great, easy tips and non-GMO alcohol options. If you have kids, scraping the vanilla beans when making vanilla extract is also a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy together! Making your vanilla extract is both fascinating and healthy. Besides, it gives you something to brag about when you share your vanilla-infused goodies with your family and friends. Here is a great recipe for making your vanilla extract at home: 

How Do I Make My Own Vanilla Extract?

To Wrap it Up

Homemade food is always the best choice when it comes to health and taste. Vanilla extract is no exception. When you make your vanilla extract, you can be sure that it does not contain any hidden or unwanted ingredients. Store-bought vanilla extract, even labeled as "natural" can contain preservatives that are not good for your health. This easy recipe for homemade vanilla extract is a great way to showcase your culinary skills and impress your friends and family with delicious vanilla-infused treats at your next gathering.

References:

Harmon, W. (2022, December 16). Homemade vanilla extract (best flavor & cost effective!). Traditional Cooking School by GNOWFGLINS. Retrieved January 23, 2023.

Rupp, R. (2021, May 4). The history of Vanilla. Culture. Retrieved January 23, 2023.

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