See how to make lemon eclair pie at home.

Making your own vanilla extract is surprisingly simple. All you need is vanilla pods and alcohol. Split the pods, place them in a bottle of vodka, seal it, and leave it. Over a few months, the liquid transforms into a rich amber extract, pulling out the full depth of flavour from the beans. The longer you leave it, the better it gets. At the same time, you can create a simple syrup, gently boiling sugar and water until it thickens, ready to use in drinks or desserts. If you’re storing anything l