Homemade Vanilla Extract with an Instant Pot Twist

A Blend of Paradise: Homemade Vanilla Extract with an Instant Pot Twist

Vanilla extract, that magical ingredient that elevates baked goods and desserts to another level. But have you ever considered making your own? It’s surprisingly simple, cost-effective, and incredibly rewarding. They also make GREAT gifts as we’ll talk about later

Today, we’re taking it a step further by harnessing the power of the Instant Pot for a quicker and more flavorful result.

The ingredients and everything you need is listed and linked below for your convenience.

The Bean Voyage:

This recipe is like a trip around the world of vanilla flavor. We’ll be using a combination of:

• Mexican Vanilla Beans: Known for their deep, smoky notes with hints of clove and spice.
• Madagascar Vanilla Beans: The classic choice, offering a rich, creamy, and slightly floral aroma.
• Tahitian Vanilla Beans: Bringing a unique floral and fruity character to the blend.

You can play with your own mixture of vanilla beans, I enjoy combining them all.

Feel free to adjust the ratios based on your preference. Want a bolder, smoky profile? Lean towards the Mexican beans. Craving a more floral nuance? Increase the Tahitian portion.

Instant Pot Magic:

Traditionally, homemade vanilla extract requires months of patient waiting. But the Instant Pot comes to the rescue! By pressure cooking the vanilla beans, we significantly accelerate the extraction process, achieving that delicious vanilla essence in mere hours.

Here’s what you’ll need: (All products linked below)

• Vanilla beans: Each package comes with ten beans, I mixed the beans (Mexican, Madagascar, and Tahitian) between two (2) quart jars (adjust as desired)
• Vodka: 750ml (choose a high-quality, neutral-tasting vodka) | Note: If you’d prefer not to use vodka, while I’ve never tried this (proceed at your own risk), you can use vegetable glycerin as noted below.
• Mason jars: 2, one-quart-sized jars with tight-fitting lids
• Instant Pot 8-quart model

The Journey Begins:

1. Split the vanilla beans: Cut each bean lengthwise, exposing the precious seeds within. Don’t scrape out the seeds – they’ll infuse the vodka more effectively whole.
2. Pack the jars: Divide the beans evenly between the two jars.
3. Pour the vodka: Add the vodka to each jar, ensuring all the beans are submerged.
4. Seal and secure: Tightly screw on the lids.
5. Instant Pot time: Place about 1″ of water in the Instant Pot liner. Arrange the jars so they do not touch. Secure the lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to “sealing.” You’ll need the 8-quart instant pot model to fit two quart-sized jars.
6. Pressure cook: Select “high pressure” for 30 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
7. Store and age: Carefully remove the jars and store them in a cool, dark place. Shake them gently every few weeks. Let the magic happen for at least two months, ideally 6-8 months, for the full depth of flavor to develop.

The Sweet Rewards:

After your patience is rewarded, you’ll have a truly unique and flavorful vanilla extract unlike any store-bought option. Use it in your baking, desserts, or even cocktails for a touch of homemade luxury. Plus, you can top-up your jars by adding more vodka and vanilla beans as you use it, making this a gift that keeps on giving.

Great Gift:

I like to gift my vanilla as gifts around the holidays, this kit is perfect as it comes with sealable jars, funnels, and labels. If your vanilla is fully mature, you can just pour your seasoned vanilla extract in the jars. Optionally, you can place 2-3 vanilla beans into each jar to keep the flavor maturing.

Additional Tips:

• Don’t throw away your vanilla beans! Use them AGAIN! You can usually get 2-3 batches of vanilla from the beans.
• Use high-quality vanilla beans for the best results.
• You can substitute vodka with rum or bourbon for a slightly different flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic version, vegetable glycerin.
• Don’t open the jars while pressure cooking or during the aging process.
• Label your jars with the date and contents for easy reference.

Everything You’ll Need:

1. Cooks Madagascar Vanilla Beans
2. Cooks Tahitian Vanilla Beans
3. Mexican Vanilla Beans
4. 8-Quart Instant Pot
5. Quart Mason Jars
6. Vanilla Jar Set
7. Vegetable Glycerin (Optional)

So, ditch the store-bought stuff and embark on your own vanilla adventure! With the Instant Pot’s help, you can have a world of flavors infused in your pantry in no time. Happy extracting!

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