Welcome to the Cake Decorators Q&A

Does anyone else here make their own vanilla extract? I get through so much that I decided a few months ago to give it a try. Using the ingredient list on the back of my current (quality) bottle along with the power of the Internet.  I’ve done blind taste testing of cakes & also buttercream using original & also ‘my’ extract & am very impressed with the results. Obviously you have to start with good quality vanilla pods.

If anyone’s interested, I can share my recipe…?

Oh yes please to your recipe! I’ve been using the jars of vanilla paste and go through so Much I actually buy boxes from tesco instead of single Jars lol

Hi Freycob

I haven’t actually made my own vanilla extract as yet, but was toying with the idea some time ago. After pricing up some really good vanilla pods I too came to the conclusion that it was worth the effort. At least then you can determine the strength of the extract instead of trying out all different brands from the supermarkets. I buy vanilla powder as I find it much more economical than paste or liquid. The powder is extremely strong so experimenting with it  is essential to get the right balance. I’ll give your recipe a go, thanks a lot!

Hi jmilne & madeitwithlove.  Thanks for your reply. I posted the recipe a while back on my blog, which you can find here:

http://freycobsfood.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/home-made-vanilla-extract.html

If you do give it a try, please let me know how you get on, won’t you?

I’ve used my half bottle that i made, and am about to start on a full 750ml bottle as I start another one.

Rosie

X

Hi Rosie

Just had a look at your recipe and I’ll definitely give this a go tomorrow. Love your blog, you’re a very clever young woman. x

Awwww, thank you! Especially for the ‘young’ comment! Lol x