- 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon finely grated fresh orange zest
- 1/4 cup Calvados or applejack brandy
- Scrape seeds from vanilla bean into a bowl and beat together with butter, sugar, and zest with an electric mixer. Add Calvados in a slow stream, beating until incorporated.