Chocolate and vanilla extract just go together. Many recipes calling for chocolate also use vanilla. The question is: Is vanilla extract gluten-free? There’s two easy answers to this question:

Gluten-Free Vanilla Extracts

There are commercially available gluten-free vanilla extracts. Here’s a few:

McCormick’s Vanilla Extract
Neilsen-Massey Pure Vanilla Extract
Singing Dog Gluten Free Vanilla Extract

Alternatively, making your own vanilla extract is quick and easy.

Make Your Own Gluten-Free Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is quite simple to make. It just takes time to let it age for the best flavor. Use a corn or potato based Vodka for gluten-free vanilla (or you can use Rum). Chopin Vodka is potato based. Prairie-Organic and 45th Parallel are corn based. Some of my research indicates that any vanilla should be gluten-free because the grain is distilled. Only your stomach knows for sure. If you feel more comfortable, make your own highly flavorful vanilla extract.

Here’s a very short video showing the process:

Homemade Vanilla Extract

You’ll need a one quart bottle with a lid:

* Split 8 vanilla beans lengthwise, but don’t cut off the ends.

* 1 quart mild flavored vodka

After splitting the beans, put them in your one quart bottle. Pour in the vodka and then shake to combine. Put your vanilla extract in a cool place, preferably away from light.

It will be at least six weeks before the vanilla will be ready. My brother makes vanilla and he lets it stand at room temperature for months. This recipe makes 1 quart of gluten-free vanilla. Bottle some up for yourself, your family, or other celiac friends!