Why does my homemade vanilla extract taste strongly of vodka after 8 weeks? I used more than the recommended ratio of vanilla pods to alcohol.

Question

Deborah R. · Answer

I mixed the extract into milk and I can see that, if it was used for baking, the alcohol taste would not be apparent. But if I was using it in a dessert that was not cooked, I think the alcohol might come through. I'm going to leave it for another few weeks before using. I guess more time won't hurt.

Mo3b · Answer

I also make vanilla extract with vodka. The alcohol scent is strong but the wonderful vanilla flavor comes through when using it for baking.

hardlikearmour · Answer

Plain commercial extract tastes boozy, too, so I'm hoping yours will be fine when actually used. How does it taste when mixed into milk - 1 part extract to 8 parts milk?

Why does my homemade vanilla extract taste strongly of vodka after 8 weeks? I used more than the recommended ratio of vanilla pods to alcohol.

3 Comments

Popular on Food52

The Best Vanilla Extract Substitute Is Probably Hiding in Your Kitchen

11 Easy Dinner Recipes for When It's Been a Loooong Week

The 15 Best Pasta Salad Recipes to Make All Summer Long