1. Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise (or chop them into smaller pieces for faster extraction).
2. Place the beans into the mason jar.
3. Pour vodka over the beans, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark pantry.
5. Shake the jar once a week.

Steeping time:

• Whole beans: let sit for at least 2 months.
• Chopped beans: ready in about 3 weeks.

As you use up your vanilla, add more vodka to stretch the life of your beans.