Friday, December 19, 2014

How to make Tahitian Vanilla Syrup


Time to break out that vintage cocktail shaker you picked up at the flea market! Another addition to our DIY lineup is Tahitian Vanilla Simple Syrup. If you’re in the mood for both mixology and makin’ you might want to check out our posts on how to craft your own Tahitian vanilla-infused spirits, homemade vanilla extract, homemade vanilla salt or sugar, homemade vanilla honey, and vanilla tea.

Simple syrup is so easy to make at home in just a few minutes. Because it has a decent shelf life, you can make up a big batch and use your Tahitian Vanilla Simple Syrup in cocktails, coffee, tea or in baked desserts. It also makes a great DIY gift for your favorite home mixologist. 

Tahitian Vanilla Simple Syrup
Makes about 1 ½ cups.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (250 mL) sugar
  • 1 cup (250 mL) water
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise with the tip of a knife

Procedure

  • Bring the sugar and water to a simmer in a medium saucepan, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. 
  • Add split vanilla bean and simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and let cool – the syrup will steep as it cools, intensifying in flavor.
  • Pour the syrup through a strainer or sieve* into a clean, airtight jar. We recommend that you sterilize your jar by boiling it in water first.
  • Store in the fridge for a up to 3 months.

*Option: leave the vanilla bean in the syrup for a more intense flavor. If you decide to take the spent vanilla bean pod out, here are 15 things to do with spent vanilla bean pods.

Tips

  • Use any quantity of sugar and water in equal amounts and add one vanilla bean per cup of sugar water.
  • Add honey, lavender, cinnamon, or other flavorings to the syrup. Experiment! 

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out Imbibe Magazine’s excellent article on 50 simple syrups. They also have cocktail recipes you can make with your homemade syrups.

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