What other ways can use Vanilla beans?
Sugar is added in almost every baking recipe, but alone it just adds sweetness. Using infused sugar adds aromatic flavor that will take any dish to the next level!
Do you have vanilla beans to make extract but want to get every last drop of goodness out of your investment? Before using them for extract, use them to make infused vanilla sugar.
How do you make Vanilla Infused Sugar?
Vanilla beans + Sugar + Time
Use the Grade B Vanilla beans. Grade B bans contain significantly less moisture which is important when infusing sugar. Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans (Grade B) are processed using a "Bourbon" curing method. This creates a very distinct flavor and aroma profile that make these beans the most popular and sought after for infusing because they produce better flavor.
Ingredients:
4-5 Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans (Grade B)
2.5 Cups of regular sugar
1 quart mason jar
Directions:
Cut the vanilla beans in half, then make one long slit down the length but not cutting all the way to either end so the bean infuses better but doesn't separate. Place in clean, airtight bottle and fill with 2.5 cups sugar. Gently swirl the sugar to infuse it with vanilla. Place in dark, cool location to infuse for at least 3 months and swirl to infuse 1 a week. Sugar may start to clump over time. Gently break the clumps of sugar and swirl it around the beans. Sugar can be used after 3 months but it's even better if you let it infuse up to 6 months.
How can you use your infused vanilla sugar?
Substitute your infused sugar in any recipe for an extra vanilla flavor. Use it to make Vanilla Bean Ice Cream using our recipe here.
Want to get more out of your Vanilla beans? After infusing your sugar, use them to make vanilla extract for your baking or to give as a gift. See our recipe for Vanilla Extract here.