Here we show you how to open, split, and scrape a whole vanilla bean in 4 easy steps!
Step 1 – Put the vanilla beans on a cutting board with their flat side down, facing away from you. The curled tip will be pointing toward the left- hand side of the cutting board.
Step 2 – Place the tip of your sharp knife in the middle of the vanilla bean, slightly below the curled top.
Step 3 – Carefully cut into the vanilla bean while you hold the top down on the board. Use your left index finger and thumb to hold it. Only slice the top layer of the bean. Do not cut through to the other side. Slice along the middle until you get to the end.
If you are using the bean whole, like to make extract, you are done. The bean is split.
Step 4 – If your recipe requires the vanilla bean seeds or caviar to be removed, pull apart the vanilla bean, slightly. Hold the bean on the cutting board. Turn the knife sideways and run the blade from the curled top to the bottom of the vanilla bean. The caviar will easily slide off the vanilla bean skin onto your knife in a thick, gooey lump.
See, I told you that it would be easy! When you scrape a vanilla bean it is always a perfect opportunity for a few creative photos. Be sure to share them with us below!
17 thoughts on “How to Split and Scape a Whole Vanilla Bean - Easy 4 Step Guide”
Connie
I see all sorts of good Questions but I DONT see any Answers they are all good things others might like to know !!!!!thanks
Barbara Moore
Ok I am lost. People asked questions but I never saw answers. How many beans do you usually put in a bottle? Do you have to take out the seeds before putting them in the bottle or do you split and leave them in?
Lynn
First let me say , I’ve purchased other company’s beans thinking “why does it matter”, and grabbed the cheapest I could get off Amazon…. guess what everyone, it matters! There is no comparison, I always make my vanilla and gift it to friends, family, or anyone that says fresh extract couldn’t be any better than store bought. Then they try it (I now use Vanilla Kings beans exclusively ) and they can’t believe the difference. I pass on the recipe and site information for ordering, always telling first timers about the bean kit. My family always looks forward to their VBK vanilla, it’s a gift that keeps on giving. I made my first batch during Covid and purchased them on Amazon, but now will be buying directly from Vanilla Bean Kings, thanks so much for all your education on the making, and growing of this awesome orchid, I had no idea! Again, thanks so much… Lynn in Virginia
Makayla Reichert
I was so excited to get my kit and start making extract and sugar and bean paste and all the yummy extras that come with owning whole beans! This was such a grand experience to stumble on through my saffron purchase thank you so much Vanilla Bean Kings!
Lori Johnson
I absolutely love your vanilla beans. I got through my first Christmas with using it as gifts and for my baking. It felt as if I was giving my babies away. I’ve seen people say that you can use the beans twice so I am trying it, only thing I am waisting is good vodka and rum. If nothing else, I will have vanilla flavored vodka and rum! And please explain something about what you use vanilla sugar for. I keep making it but don’t know what to do with it. Thanks so much.