Infused Vanilla Honey with vanilla beans is so easy to make! It's delicious in tea, lattes and baked goods. Make vanilla bean honey for a homemade gift this holiday. Recipe includes two preparation options (cold and hot methods). (Gluten Free).
Mix: Slice 2 vanilla pods each in half lengthwise. Run the back of a knife against the cut side to scrape out seeds. Transfer seeds to a clean jar (see note 2). Cut each of the scraped pods in half, then add themto the jar as well. Pour 1 cup mild honey over top.
Steep: Seal jar and let steep at room temperature. Stir or flip the jar every couple days, so that the vanilla stays submerged under the honey (the pods will float to the top over time). Let steep for at least 5 to 7 days—or ideally longer for more flavor. Once desired flavor is achieved, you can remove the pods (see note 3).
Hot Method [Option 2]
Mix: Slice 2 vanilla pods each in half lengthwise. Run the back of a knife against the cut side to scrape out seeds. Transfer seeds to small pot. Cut each of the scraped pods in half, then add them to the pot as well. Pour 1 cup mild honey over top.
Warm and steep: Warm honey over lowest heat, stirring frequently and making sure the honey doesn't boil. Let warm for 10 to 15 minutes, until desired flavor is achieved. Transfer honey to a clean jar (if you still want more flavor then keep the pods in, otherwise pull them out—see note 3).
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Notes
Mild honey: There are many types of honey. For this recipe, use a very mild tasting honey so that the vanilla flavor can shine through. Light colored honeys tend to be mild (such as Clover or Orange Blossom). If in doubt, just give it a taste!
Jar: We like to re-use 325 ml or 11 fl oz jam jars for this. But, any other clean glass jar or resealable container with lid works fine. If using the heated method, make sure the container is heatsafe (high-quality glass jars typically are).
Vanilla Pods: The scraped pods steep flavor into the honey (in addition to the beans). So, there's no rush to pull them out. But, it's easier to use the honey without the pods inside. So, if you're crunched for time and plan to give these as a homemade gift, just write a note on the jar for the user to remove the pods when ready to use.
What to do if honey hardens: Over time, all honey will harden (crystallize). It is still safe to consume. To thin the honey again, you can put the jar in warm water.
Yield: Makes 1 cup of honey. Nutritional estimate based on 1 teaspoon per serving.