Vanilla sugar is one of those things that serve no real purpose other than make life a little sweeter and a little nicer. We need more things in life like that.

Requirements:
- Airtight container
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 whole vanilla bean (use 2 vanilla beans for slightly stronger scented sugar)

Procedure:
- Place sugar in airtight container
- Bury vanilla bean(s) in container. Optional: bury one vanilla bean whole and add the seeds scraped from a second vanilla bean.
- Seal container. The sugar will be ready to use in one to two weeks, just store it out of your way until then.
- Use vanilla sugar in place of plain granulated sugar. My two favorite uses are in my morning coffee and sprinkled lightly on top of fresh strawberries.