Homemade Vanilla Extract

A while back I ran across a blog that explained how to make homemade vanilla extract.  I go through alot of vanilla extract I thought it would be fun to try to make my own.
 I started mine so it would be ready to use the 1st of 2011.   
Most recipes I found use vodka or rum.  I felt what I use mine for would be better with a vodka base.  

Start with 2 cups of vodka (I used a 375 ml bottle of KetelOne, it's close to 2 cups)

 6 vanilla beans & a knife

Open the vodka

Cut all 6 vanilla beans down the length of the bean

 Drop the beans in the bottle of vodka

Put the lid back on the bottle

give it a shake & put it in a dark cupboard

This recipe takes less than 5 minutes to put together....seriously you should try this yourself! The worst part is it takes 2 months to infuse...but that won't stop me from making my own from now on.   

Looking foward to trying this out on January 1st.

Vanilla Extract
2 cups vodka
5-6 medium vanilla beans, whole
Split vanilla beans in half, lengthwise.

Combine vanilla beans and vodka in a glass bottle or jar, make sure beans are completely covered by vodka.
Store tightened bottle or jar in a cool, dark place. Every week shake the bottle then put it back in a cool, dark place. Your extract will be ready after 2 months. To make more, continue to top off bottle with vodka and additional vanilla beans.