Well, first off pet, use real vanilla pods, I have mine in a jar of caster sugar and if I need a stronger flavour, i slit them and take out the seeds to use - you can still put the slit pods back into the sugar, they will still impart the flavour. I've got to look up a recipe because of the amounts - back soon
Going loco here - I usually just use the 4oz Victoria sandwich recipe -
4oz each of caster cuagr, softened butter, sifted SR flour and two large eggs, seeds from vanilla pod, a little milk if needed.
makes 12. gas 4 180/350 for about 15-20mins
I have been known to whizz up the seeds with granulated sugar, makes a grey looking caster sugar, but it cooks well!
Let me know what you think - some ordinary ovens can dry them out - i forget this as I've got a fan oven - Mercia XX