Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe

Homemade vanilla extract is prized for its full, rich, complex flavor and an incredibly smooth aroma. Homemade vanilla extract is truly in a different league than what can be purchased from most supermarkets. The difference between pure vanilla and imitation vanilla is simple. Pure vanilla extract is made from vanilla beans, while imitation vanilla utilizes imitation flavors and chemicals.

Photo from MyBakingAddiction.com

Ingredients

Jar or bottle
Vanilla Beans - Use your favorite variety (rule of thumb is 5 beans per 1 cup of alcohol)
Vodka - but you can also use Bourbon, Rum or Brandy
Directions:

Instructions
1. Use a knife to split the bean in half, leave about ½ inch at each end intact.

2. Put your vanilla beans in your glass bottle or jar and cover with vodka.

3. Close jar or bottle and store in a cool, dry place for at least 8 weeks. Give the bottle a shake every week or so. As you use the vanilla, simply add in more liquor to replace what you have used.

Savvy Tip

Make now and put aside ready to give away at Christmas.

You can leave the vanilla beans in the jar, the flavor will continue to evolve - just be sure the beans are always submerged in alcohol.

Source: Beanilla

Post workout smoothie

Post workout smoothie ! 

To jump start recovery & to restore

If you are dairy free just swap out the milk and yoghurt for a non dairy alternative.  Try other nut butters such as cashew butter (my favorite).

Savvy Health Snapshot

Banana - A good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Potassium and Manganese, and a very good source of Vitamin B6.