Vanilla pods can be used for infusing with sugar to capture its vanilla flavour and aroma. You can simply bury two vanilla pods that have a reasonably high moisture content into 450g (1lbs) sugar and store in an airtight container. Over time the vanilla flavour will permeate through the sugar.
However we have a second method that will greatly increase the vanilla flavour in the sugar and also reduce the time it takes for the vanilla flavour to permeate through the sugar.
Select a large fragrant vanilla pod with a reasonably high moisture content. Cut the vanilla pod into pieces and place in the bowl of a small food processor. Add 450g (1lbs) of sugar and process until the vanilla pod is finely ground and well distributed through the sugar. The sugar will be powdery similar to icing sugar. Transfer the vanilla sugar in an airtight container.
Vanilla infused sugar will keep indefinitely and is used as you would use plain sugar.