Vanilla Moonshine Recipe
Easy homemade vanilla moonshine recipe with bold flavor, perfect for adding depth to desserts, drinks, and more with simple ingredients.
Equipment
- Large glass jar (with airtight seal)
- Measuring spoons
- Funnel (for easy pouring)
- Fine-mesh strainer (for any filtering needs)
- Sterile bottles (for storage)
Ingredients
- 5-6 whole vanilla beans split lengthwise
- 500 ml quality base spirit e.g., vodka
- 1 tbsp sugar optional
- 50 ml filtered water
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vanilla Beans
- Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise to expose the rich, flavorful seeds inside.
- Carefully scrape the seeds from each bean, but keep the pods too. They’ll add depth to the flavor.
- Fact: Splitting vanilla beans releases more flavor compounds, giving your moonshine a richer, more complex taste.
Step 2 – Combine Ingredients
- Add the vanilla beans (pods and seeds) to the large glass jar.
- Pour the vodka over the beans, covering them entirely. If you’re adding a bit of sweetness, now’s the time to mix in a tablespoon of sugar.
- Gently stir to ensure everything is well-combined.
- Note: For a stronger flavor, let the vanilla beans steep longer – patience pays off in flavor.
Step 3 – Seal and Store
- Secure the lid tightly and give the jar a gentle shake.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place. Aim for about 2-3 weeks of steeping time, shaking it once every few days to keep flavors blending beautifully.
- Warning: Store away from sunlight to avoid affecting the flavor and color of the vanilla moonshine.
Step 4 – Strain and Bottle
- After the infusion period, use a fine-mesh strainer to separate the beans from the liquid.
- Carefully pour the strained moonshine into sterile bottles for storage. This is when your funnel will come in handy.
- Fact: The longer you let vanilla moonshine sit, the stronger the flavor. Some people age it for months!
Notes
- Use high-quality vanilla beans for the best result. The beans determine the richness of flavor.
- Experiment with aging. The longer it sits, the more complex the flavors become.
- For a twist, try adding a hint of cinnamon or cloves to give the vanilla moonshine a seasonal, spiced touch.