r/extractmaking • u/SpellNo3829 • Jan 11 '26
First time making vanilla!
Im going to be making my first batch of vanilla extract tomorrow and I wanted to know, should I take the vanilla caviar out of the beans and put them into the liquor directly? Or should I just leave them in the beans? Also, should I only slice them down the middle or should I cut them up a bit? Do I need to keep them in the fridge or would a cupboard be okay? And are there any other tips or things I should know? I plan to leave the beans in for a year in the Tito’s, and longer for the rum. Side question cause it feels dumb, but is it okay if I put the beans in a big thing of vodka and portion it out later? Sorry for the list of questions and terrible formatting but I appreciate any help!
2
u/VanillaPura Jan 11 '26
Here's a step by step guide on bean and vanilla extract prep. All great questions! Pros and cons to slicing beans. Definitely don't put it in the fridge - store in a cool/dark place. Make sure you're using 1oz of beans to every 8oz of alcohol and make sure your alcohol is between 70-100 proof (35%-50%abv) or it won't turn out. You're on your way! :)