Using just two elements, this recipe comes together easily and can have a massive impact on your baking. Vanilla added to sugar creates additional flavor that you don't always get, adding some refinement to any recipe.
Place your sugar in an airtight container. Cut the bean lengthwise in half, exposing the thousands of flavorful seeds inside. With the back of a knife, scrape out all the seeds and mix into the sugar.
1-2 vanilla beans, 2 cups granulated sugar
Place the scraped bean in the sugar as it will have oils the sugar will absorb. If extra strong vanilla is desired, use two beans.
Before using the sugar, let it sit for at least two weeks, stirring occasionally. This allows the oils and flavors to distribute.