Recently I thought I would try to find out more about what makes double strength extract so good and had the epiphany that I COULD MAKE IT MYSELF. Holy macaroni, this practically sent shivers down my spine! I purchase my double strength vanilla extract at Penzey's, and it is mighty fine, and I pay a mighty fine price for it. Could I seriously make it myself and have it be (1) really good AND (2) save some money? Well, friends, we shall soon see.
I did tons of research online of people who make their own vanilla extract. The basics are simple: all you need is vanilla beans and vodka and time. The variations come in with HOW MANY vanilla beans per unit of vodka, how much you actually work with the beans prior to bottling, how long you let it "brew" or whatever. Ok, more research. According to the FDA, vanilla extract contains 13.35 oz. of bean per gallon of alcohol. This means approximately 100 beans per gallon, or 6 beans per cup. However, I wanted double strength vanilla. So I needed to double that. I planned to make 1.75 liters (or 1/2 gallon) so I used 100 beans for 1.75 liters.
On to what kind of vanilla beans to buy...
There are two types of vanilla, Planifolia and Tahitensis. Planifolia has a strong, familiar flavor and is also knows as Madagascar Bourbon vanilla. Tahitian vanilla is a weaker variety, with more floral and sweet flavors. There are two grades of planifolia vanilla beans: Grade A (aka gourmet or prime) and Grade B (aka chef or extract). Grade A beans are more oily and moist, are visually very attractive, and have a higher moisture content. Grade B beans are less attractive and have a lower moisture content. Grade B beans are used for extracts because you want that drier bean for less water weight. You get more beans per pound so more bean ends up in the extract instead of water weight. You don't want the extra water. Plus it doesn't matter how pretty the beans are when you are making extract. Get it? I purchased vanilla beans from a store in San Francisco called Vanilla Saffron Imports. Their prices are unbelievable and the reviews were great. I got a pound of chef quality planifolia vanilla beans for $19.95 plus shipping!