Posted by: Leslie in AK 10-07-99 9:01 PM
Vanilla Bean Extract
1/2 cup Brandy
3 or 4 Vanilla beans
Chop vanilla beans into small pieces, being careful not to lose any of bean or little black seeds.
Drop pieces into a clean jar and cover with brandy.
Cover with a tight-fitting lid and keep in a dark place, shaking every 3 days or so.
Extract will be ready in 2 weeks.
A touch more brandy can be added if beans still seem potent.
Mixture can be added to indefinitely.
To use: Use just as you would regular vanilla extract, but taste to make sure brandy flavor is not too strong.
Source: Cheaper and Better Alternatives To Store Bought Goods by Nancy
Birnes