Bourbon Vanilla Extract {A Recipe ReDux}

Tis the season for gift giving, and if you’re like me (or the other members of the Recipe ReDux), you’re already racking your brain for cute, clever, and  tasty ideas to give a hostess gifts and stocking stuffers.  This month’s Recipe ReDux theme is oh so appropriate - Adding Merriment to Mixes.  We were challenged to share the recipe for how we package up a little shelf-stable love from our kitchens.

This little gift is so quick and easy to make for friends and family – and of course, yourself, and I’m loving the fact that there is no measuring or long list of ingredients involved.  It’s also a gift that keeps on giving.  Just refill with your favorite liquor as it gets used up, and an occasional vanilla bean, and it will last for years.

What you’ll need:

1 750 ml bottle of Bourbon or Vodka

1 package of good quality Madagascar Vanilla Beans

Small glass bottles (4-8 oz)

A funnel to pour and a sharp knife to slice the beans

Slice the vanilla beans down the middle lengthwise to expose beans.  Leave a bit at the top intact so they don’t separate completely.  It will smell HEAVENLY.  Cut the beans in half so they fit into your bottles.  Place 4-6 halves into each bottle (I used 6 halves per 8 oz bottle.  Use less for smaller bottles).  Using a funnel, fill the bottles with liquor, tighten caps, shake, and let sit in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks or until they smell like vanilla.  FYI the 750 ml bottle of liquor will just about fill 4-8oz bottles, so be careful to not drink any if you need 4 of these :).