Vanilla Bean Sugar

This is by far one of the best things I've ever tried mainly because of its versatility.  Vanilla sugar can be used in anything from chocolate chip cookie recipes to your morning cup of coffee...its bold vanilla flavor really changes the dynamic of any recipe.  There are three types of vanilla beans: Bourbon, Tahitian and Mexican...I used the Bourbon type in this recipe because it has a better and stronger flavor and the pods seem to have way more seeds in them.  You can pick up vanilla beans in any grocery store, just be sure to take a good look at them!  Always make sure they are in a glass container and never buy beans that look dry, brittle, or gray in color.  For your first attempt at it try this recipe, its super easy, super fast, and super delish! 

Ingredients:

• 2 Whole Premium Bourbon Vanilla Beans
• 4 Cups Granulated or Raw Sugar

1. Pour the sugar into the glass mixing bow and make a small well in the middle.
2. Place the beans on a cutting board. Using a small sharp knife carefully slice open each Bourbon vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the tiny seeds into the sugar well. Lay the bean pods aside for use in Step #6
3. Stir the vanilla seeds and sugar until well blended. Use a wooden spoon to carefully mash or grind the seed into the sugar to get an even consistency.
4. Cut each remaining vanilla bean pod into three to four pieces and add to sugar mixture. Stir again until well blended. Always include the vanilla bean pods because the oil in the skin and the inside of the pods will intensify the flavor of the sugar mixture.
5. Place the vanilla sugar in an airtight glass container or re-sealable plastic bag. Store it in a dark, dry place for two weeks before using the mixture. Shake the mixture once or twice each week to continue to release the vanilla flavoring into the sugar.
6. Since the Bourbon vanilla beans can be re-used several times, add additional sugar to your mixture, re-seal and re-store. Your first batch of sugar is good to use for up to a year, but this time frame is extended when you add more sugar. Replace the beans when you can no longer smell or taste the vanilla.