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Vanilla Essence

A homemade version of vanilla extract.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes about 2 cups

Ingredients

2 cups brandy
4 vanilla beans, split lengthwise

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Place brandy in jar. Scrape in seeds from vanilla beans; add beans. Seal tightly.

    Step 2

    Let stand in cool place at least 2 months, shaking jar occasionally. Store in cool dark place.

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