Vanilla Extract

[jkpjohnson]

About a month ago I had to buy some vanilla extract. When I was comparing prices I noticed right next to eachother. Vanilla Extract and Vanilla Flavoring. The Vanilla Flavoring was a different name but when I looked on the back, it was mfg'd by the same company. This was a larger size and cheaper. I was not sure, so I bought the Vanilla Extract.

I need to buy more and thought I would ask if anyone knew what the differance was.

[mcnerd]

The Vanilla Extract is the real thing made from vanilla beans, whereas the "flavoring" is just that and may have some extract in it but is mostly artificial ingredients. Thus the big price difference.

There are also different qualities of Vanilla Extract depending on the beans used and what alcohol they are infused in. See link

All About Vanilla Extract

[tsgal]

I have used both kinds. But I would rather buy the extract and not the flavored kind. It is much better. But sometimes you have to go with what you can afford too.

[brchbell]

Anna, my Amish friend showed me years ago how to make my own vanilla extract and it's the same that the Mexicans use. Buy some vanilla beans. Buy vodka and put one bean into each bottle of vodka and reseal. Let set for 6 months and you have real vanilla extract! I just buy one of those little jars of vanilla beans at the store spice rack and make a 2 year supply of vanilla at a time. Part of my years supply! Heads up, this years vanilla bean crop failed so prices and shortages may occur next year! I bought several little bottles of beans just to be safe!

[jkpjohnson]

What size bottle of vodka? And when you reseal (just screw the top on)?

[brchbell]

Originally Posted by jkpjohnson

What size bottle of vodka? And when you reseal (just screw the top on)?

I buy them in 5th's the only thing I've ever seen vodka in. Just reseal the lid and put it away in a dark place. I pack mine in milk crates in my basement food storage area. I never use alcohol except for this making my own vanilla. After I started making my own vanilla I can't stand to use the stuff they sell in the store! Sure glad my friend showed me this!

[mcnerd]

You can use any size bottle that is convenient and many people add 5-6 beans, cut into pieces or slit to expose the beans. You can also use whiskey or rum and there may be other alcohols that taste good. The beans will last for years and you only need to replenish the liquid occasionally.

I agree, once you've made your own you will never use store-bought again.

[jkpjohnson]

Thanks alot, I hate baking because the stuff is so expensive. Almost $5 for the smallest bottle, around here that buys alot of vodka, not sure yet how much vanilla beans cost.

But Thanks, I think I can handle this MYO recipe. LOL

[mcnerd]

Check on eBay. You might find a deal on vanilla beans there, but do some research first on the types of beans, such as Madagascar.

[bamsbbq]

vanilla flavor or artifical vanilla extract is not usually vanilla at all, it is usually made from wood by products

All About Vanilla and Vanilla Extract - Recipelink.com

Imitation or artificial vanilla extract contains no real vanilla at all. It is made from 100% artificial ingredients, mostly by-products of the pulp and paper industry, that have been treated with chemicals and supplemented with feeble flavourings. Artificial vanilla has a harsh, one-dimensional flavour that can come across as medicinal, cloying and even almost bitter in some cases. At best, it is rough and dull and absolutely incomparable to any other form of real vanilla. Avoid it at all costs, as it will do neither you nor your precious baking any good! If you have only ever used the artificial stuff, the difference pure vanilla will make to your favourite recipes is worth the price of this book, not to mention the vanilla itself.