Ina Garten’s Beloved Vanilla Extract Recipe

Image credit : FOOD & WINE / GETTY IMAGES

When Ina Garten shares a cooking tip, we listen. The Barefoot Contessa recently revealed to the New Yorker that the “Most Treasured Jar” in her pantry is not some rare specialty ingredient, nor is it something you can replace with her famous tagline, “store bought is fine.” Instead, it’s her homemade vanilla extract, a simple yet luxurious DIY staple that she has cherished for years.

Garten explained, “Of all the ingredients in my pantry, my jar of vanilla is my most treasured. It’s not the ordinary kind you find at the grocery store; I’m talking about pure vanilla extract with real vanilla beans. There is nothing ‘plain’ about really good vanilla.”

Over the years, Garten has shared her method for making vanilla extract on Food Network, in her cookbooks, and on social media. Her approach is praised for its simplicity and delicious results. Plus, it’s cost-efficient. Here’s how you can make it:

Start with whole vanilla beans and a tall canning jar. Garten recommends using about two dozen vanilla beans per jar. While vanilla beans can be pricey, buying in bulk from suppliers like Amazon or restaurant suppliers can help reduce the cost. Once you have your beans, add 18 to 24 of them to the jar and fill it with vodka. There’s no need to splurge on expensive vodka; any type will do. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for four to six months. Over time, the vodka transforms into rich, homemade vanilla extract.

One of Garten’s favorite aspects of this homemade vanilla is the softened vanilla beans. “I fish a vanilla bean out of the jar, snip off one end, and squeeze the seeds into whatever I’m cooking,” she said. “You taste deep vanilla in your cake or custard and see the vanilla seeds.” These beans can enhance everything from chocolate cake to creamy icings, cocktails, and even fragrant steamed fish.

Garten’s trick to making homemade vanilla is to keep reusing the same jar. “As I use up the contents, I add more beans and vodka,” she wrote. “The ‘brew’ gets more intense over time.” In fact, she still uses the same jar she started with over two decades ago.

Homemade vanilla extract makes a great gift for hosts or during the holidays. You can package it in smaller jars once the first batch is ready. Start now, and you’ll have homemade vanilla by autumn.

Re-reported the article the article originally published in Food and wine.