Vanilla extract doesn’t have to be made with alcohol but finding a non-alcoholic version at the store can be difficult and costly. Fortunately, our recipe is really easy to make at home and it will save you money.
Ingredients
- Vanilla Beans
- Food-grade vegetable glycerin (substitute for alcohol)
- You will also need a glass bottle to make and store the extract
What is Glycerin?
Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting. Glycerin is often derived from plant sources such as soybean, palm, or coconut oil, although it can also be synthesized chemically so make sure to ready the ingredients when buying your glycerin.
In food and cooking, glycerin serves multiple purposes. It is used as a sweetener, humectant (to retain moisture), solvent, and thickening agent. In the context of making extracts like vanilla extract, glycerin is used as a substitute for alcohol to extract and preserve the flavor compounds from the vanilla beans. It provides a non-alcoholic alternative for those who prefer to avoid alcohol in their cooking and baking.
We use an organic vegetable glycerin from NV Superfoods that is palm and soy free.
Infusing Time
It will take at least six months before ready to use, so it is important to plan ahead.
Appearance
The non-alcoholic extract may not be as dark as the alcohol-based vanilla and will have a similar consistency to syrup but will still have the same flavor as vanilla extract.
Health
This extract is also diet-friendly. Glycerine-based extracts are sugar-free and gluten-free. Despite being referred to as a “sugar alcohol,” glycerine doesn’t contain sugar or alcohol. As long as you use vegetable glycerin, the extract is ideal for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Use and enjoy with your favorite recipe for the holidays!