Whether you’re making rich ice cream or fluffy madeleines, real vanilla beans help to flavor your food and drinks. However, it can feel like a waste to dispose of their pods once you’ve used the beans they contain. To get the most out of the beans, take advantage of these three resourceful tips.

How Can You Use Empty Vanilla Bean Pods?

1. Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is a component in a variety of sweet treats, from chocolate cookies to waffles. Luckily, it’s easy to make on your own. Place the used vanilla bean pods in a glass container of vodka or bourbon. Continue to add beans after use to increase flavor. After a few months of steeping, you’ll have a homemade bottle.

2. Vanilla Simple Syrup

Add your empty pods to an equal mixture of sugar and water, and bring it to a simmer on the stovetop. After the sugar has dissolved, remove the pot from the heat. Once it’s cooled, pour the syrup into a jar and store it in the fridge. Then, use the vanilla-flavored sweetener in coffee, tea, chai lattes, or cocktails. You can also drizzle the syrup on top of berries or Greek yogurt for a bit of sweetness.

3. Vanilla Powder

Add vanilla flavor to your baked goods by turning the emptied pods into powder. Leave them out to dry and place them in a coffee bean grinder, spice grinder, or food processor. Grind the pods until they turn into a fine powder, and store them in an airtight jar. Add the grounds to your recipes for some extra flavor.

When you need a restock of vanilla beans after using your empty pods, turn to Laie Vanilla Company of Oahu. With more than 800 vanilla orchid vines, owner Saili Levi will have products for you, from vanilla beans to extract. Their vanilla extract is stronger than the grocery-store standard, containing four open beans that allow the flavor to evolve with time. Visit their website to place an order, or call (808) 209-3354 to speak with a representative.