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It started with a lot of online shopping. I bought 16 pretty glass bottles, a half pound of Tahitian Vanilla Beans, and 2 bottles of cheap bourbon. Check.
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You just slice each vanilla bean lengthwise, leaving about an inch still together at the top. This makes for a messy cutting board, but the kitchen will be filled with the sweet aroma of fresh vanilla.
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The jars I used are 8 ounces, which is about a cup of liquid. You have to use 3 whole vanilla beans per cup of alcohol. I chose to use Bourbon for this batch, but you could use whatever you want! As long as it's strong. We used a funnel to fill the jars.
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After all the jars are full, secure the lids and give each bottle a good shake. Store them somewhere cool and dark for at least 3 months. It takes that long for the vanilla beans to release all their delicious flavor into the alcohol. Every week or so, give the bottles a shake. Now all I need is a sweet label and some sort of cool ribbon or string, then I have the most perfect Christmas gifts! Made with love. You know.
What great gifts. You and Michael have the best ideas. Love you both
ReplyDeleteI love helping you shake these :)
ReplyDeleteDo I really have to wait three months to try this? Can't Wait!!!
ReplyDelete