DIY Vanilla Sugar

Homemade Vanilla Sugar makes a great gift by Preparedness Pro

Want to discover a sweet treat that makes life worth living? It’s called Vanilla Sugar.  OK so perhaps a bit melodramatic, but you might think the same way for a moment once you experience this in your baking or hot drinks.  It’s called Vanilla Sugar and it’s not only great for you, but it makes a great gift as well.  It lasts as long s sugar lasts on the shelf and in fact, the longer it sits, the more infused it becomes with the vanilla fragrance.  But there’s no need to let it sit for too long because you can keep reusing the same vanilla pods to make more…and more…and more.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar (this works with Stevia as well as other sugar substitutes_
• 1-2 whole vanilla beans (You can get these in the spice aisle, on Amazon, or in any health food store.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vanilla Beans:
   • Split the vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp knife to expose the seeds inside. You can use one or two beans depending on how strong you want the vanilla flavor to be.
2. Combine Sugar and Vanilla:
   • Place the granulated sugar in a medium bowl or a large airtight container.
     

     Vanilla and Sugar make Vanilla Sugar

   • Scrape the seeds from the inside of the vanilla beans using the back of the knife and add them to the sugar. Mix the seeds thoroughly with the sugar to evenly distribute the vanilla flavor.
3. Add the Vanilla Pods:
   • Cut the split vanilla bean pods into smaller pieces and bury them in the sugar. The pods will continue to infuse the sugar with vanilla flavor over time.
4. Store:
   • Transfer the vanilla sugar mixture to an airtight container. I use Mason jars, of course.  Seal the container tightly.
   • Store the container in a cool, dark place for at least 1-2 weeks before using, shaking it occasionally to mix the sugar and redistribute the vanilla flavor. The longer it sits, the more intense the vanilla flavor will be. And no, this doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Just let it sit out on your counter to “marinate”.

Vanilla beans make for great Vanilla Sugar

Tips for Success:

• Vanilla Beans: Use high-quality vanilla beans for the best flavor. Madagascar and Tahitian vanilla beans are popular choices.
• Reuse Vanilla Pods: After the initial batch, you can reuse the vanilla pods to make another batch of vanilla sugar. Just add more granulated sugar to the container and let it infuse.
• Use in Recipes: Vanilla sugar can be used in place of regular sugar in many recipes, such as baking cookies, cakes, or even sweetening coffee and tea. You’ll love the difference it makes. Imagine someone trying a “plain ole sugar cookie” and trying to place a finger on what’s unique about it. *grin*