Homemade Vanilla Extract

I have been wanting to make my own vanilla for a very long time now, I was just looking for the right bottle. I know, sounds crazy, but I want it to look good as well as taste good! Anyway, I finally found a fabulous bottle at Target perfect for my vanilla venture! According to The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook by Ina Garten, my homemade vanilla will keep for years and years, I just need to feed the "brew" by adding more vanilla beans and vodka when it starts getting low. I am so excited and can't wait to bake my first batch of whatever with my vanilla!

Recipe for Homemade Vanilla Extract

Tall glass bottle (with lid that seals completely)

One dozen vanilla beans

Vodka (I used Grey Goose, but you can use anything)

Make sure your bottle is clean and dry. Split vanilla beans lengthwise and place inside the glass bottle. Pour vodka into the bottle making sure all beans are completely covered. Store the bottle out of direct light and away from heat. Let the beans marinate in the vodka for at least one month before using. The extract will become more flavorful the longer it marinates.