Homemade Vanilla Extract Calculator
Calculation Results:
To achieve vanilla extract, you need:
How to Use the Vanilla Extract Calculator
Making your own vanilla extract at home is a rewarding process that results in a far superior flavor compared to store-bought imitations. To ensure your extract meets professional and legal standards, you must maintain a specific ratio of vanilla beans to alcohol.
Understanding "Fold" Strength
In the world of vanilla, "Fold" refers to the concentration of the extract. The FDA provides a specific standard for commercial vanilla extract:
- Single Fold (1x): This is the standard strength found in grocery stores. It requires 13.35 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon of alcohol (35% alcohol content).
- Double Fold (2x): Preferred by professional bakers, this is twice as strong, requiring 26.7 ounces of beans per gallon. It allows you to add intense vanilla flavor without adding as much liquid to your recipes.
Choosing Your Alcohol
For the best results, use an alcohol that is at least 70 proof (35% alcohol). Vodka is the most popular choice because it has a neutral flavor that lets the vanilla shine. However, Bourbon, Rum, and Brandy can add wonderful complexity to your extract.
The Math Behind the Calculator
Our calculator uses the FDA standard ratio. For 1x extract, you need approximately 0.834 ounces (23.6 grams) of beans for every 8 fluid ounces (1 cup) of alcohol. If you are using Double Fold (2x), that requirement jumps to 1.67 ounces (47.2 grams) per cup.
Steps to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Calculate: Use the tool above to find the exact weight of beans needed for your volume of alcohol.
- Prepare Beans: Split the vanilla beans lengthwise using a sharp knife or kitchen shears to expose the seeds (vanilla caviar).
- Submerge: Place the beans in a clean glass jar and pour the alcohol over them. Ensure the beans are fully submerged.
- Wait: Store the jar in a cool, dark place. Shake it once a week.
- Cure: While it will smell like vanilla after a few weeks, true extract takes 6 to 12 months to fully develop its flavor profile.
Example Calculation
If you have a 750ml bottle of vodka and want to make Single Fold extract:
- 750ml is approximately 25.36 fluid ounces.
- Using the 1x ratio (0.104 oz beans per 1 oz alcohol), you would need 2.64 ounces or 75 grams of vanilla beans.
- Since an average bean weighs about 3 grams, you would need approximately 25 beans.