How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract: A Simple Recipe

Have you ever wanted to make your own vanilla extract? It’s easier than you think! With just two ingredients—cheap vodka and vanilla beans—you can create a homemade vanilla extract that’s full of rich, deep flavor. Best of all, it’ll last you for a long time, making it a cost-effective alternative to store-bought vanilla extract.

Let me walk you through this foolproof recipe for making your very own vanilla extract at home. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff again!

Why Make Homemade Vanilla Extract?

1. Better Flavor

Homemade vanilla extract has a more robust, authentic vanilla flavor compared to many commercial brands, especially the cheaper ones.

2. Cost-Effective

While vanilla beans can be pricey, making your own extract in bulk using a large bottle of vodka actually saves money in the long run. Plus, you can keep “feeding” the extract with more beans and vodka, so you never run out.

3. Simple Ingredients

With only two ingredients—vodka and vanilla beans—you don’t have to worry about any additives or chemicals. It’s all-natural and customizable to your taste!

Ingredients for Homemade Vanilla Extract

• 1.75 L cheap vodka (yes, you can use the inexpensive stuff—it works great for extracts!)
• 25 vanilla beans

How to Make Vanilla Extract

Step 1: Prep Your Vanilla Beans

Take your 25 vanilla beans and split them down the middle lengthwise using a sharp knife. You don’t need to scrape out the seeds, just splitting them will help release all that vanilla goodness into the vodka.

Step 2: Add the Beans to the Vodka

Place your split vanilla beans into the 1.75 L bottle of vodka. Make sure all the beans are fully submerged. If your vodka bottle has a narrow neck and you can’t fit the beans in, transfer the vodka into a larger glass jar or bottle with a lid.

Step 3: Let It Sit

Here comes the hard part—waiting! Store the vanilla extract in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, for at least 3 months. The longer it sits, the stronger the flavor becomes. If you’re patient, letting it sit for 6 months to a year will give you a richer, more complex extract.

Step 4: Shake Occasionally

Every week or so, give the bottle a gentle shake to help the flavors develop evenly.

Step 5: Use and Enjoy

Once your extract has steeped to your liking, it’s ready to use! You can leave the vanilla beans in the vodka (the flavor will continue to intensify over time), or you can strain the extract into smaller bottles for gifting or personal use.

Tips for the Best Vanilla Extract

1. Choose Your Vodka Wisely

While you don’t need to splurge on expensive vodka, it’s a good idea to pick a neutral-flavored one. Avoid vodkas with flavors or harsh tones, as these could interfere with the taste of your vanilla extract.

2. Vanilla Bean Varieties

There are several types of vanilla beans you can use for your extract. Madagascar vanilla beans are the most common and offer that classic vanilla flavor. Tahitian vanilla beans have a more floral note, and Mexican vanilla beans bring a bit of spice. You can even mix different types to create a unique flavor profile!

3. Don’t Skimp on the Beans

It might be tempting to cut down on the number of vanilla beans, but trust me—don’t! Using at least 25 beans for a 1.75 L bottle of vodka ensures a strong, fragrant extract.

4. Reuse the Beans

After you’ve used up some of your vanilla extract, you can “top off” the bottle with more vodka and a few new beans. This way, you always have a supply of homemade vanilla extract on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Homemade Vanilla Extract Last?

Homemade vanilla extract can last for years—literally! As long as it’s stored in a cool, dark place, it’ll continue to age like a fine wine, developing deeper flavors over time.

Can I Use Rum or Bourbon Instead of Vodka?

Absolutely! Using rum or bourbon can add a warm, caramel-like undertone to your vanilla extract. It’s a fun way to customize your extract for baking or cocktails.

Do I Have to Strain the Vanilla Beans?

Nope! You can leave the vanilla beans in the bottle indefinitely. In fact, leaving them in will only make the extract stronger and more flavorful over time.

Uses for Vanilla Extract

Homemade vanilla extract can be used in the same way as store-bought extract. Here are just a few ways you can use it:

• Baking: Use it in cookies, cakes, brownies, and more for a rich vanilla flavor.
• Cooking: Add it to savory dishes like roasted vegetables or marinades for a unique twist.
• Cocktails: A splash of vanilla extract in your favorite cocktail can add depth and warmth.
• Coffee: Stir a little vanilla extract into your morning coffee for a sweet, aromatic boost.

Gifting Homemade Vanilla Extract

Looking for a unique and thoughtful homemade gift? Divide your vanilla extract into small bottles, add a cute label, and voila—instant gift! Whether it’s for the holidays, birthdays, or housewarming gifts, a bottle of homemade vanilla extract is always appreciated.

Final Thoughts

Making your own homemade vanilla extract is incredibly simple, and the results are far superior to most store-bought versions. With just a little patience, you’ll have a flavorful, aromatic extract that enhances everything from baking to beverages.

So why not give it a try? Grab a bottle of cheap vodka, some vanilla beans, and get started. You’ll love the difference it makes in your kitchen!

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Homemade Vanilla Extract

Learn how to make homemade vanilla extract with just two ingredients—vodka and vanilla beans. This simple recipe yields rich, flavorful vanilla extract perfect for baking and gifting!

Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Dessert, Drinks, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword DIY vanilla extract, homemade baking ingredients, homemade vanilla extract, how to make vanilla extract, vanilla beans and vodka, vanilla extract recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Resting time 90 days days

Total Time 90 days days 5 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 1.75 L vodka cheap brands work just fine
• 25 vanilla bean pods

Instructions

• Take your 25 vanilla beans and split them down the middle lengthwise using a sharp knife
• Place your split vanilla beans into the 1.75 L bottle of vodka. Make sure all the beans are fully submerged.
• Store the vanilla extract in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, for at least 3 months. The longer it sits, the stronger the flavor becomes.
• Every week or so, give the bottle a gentle shake to help the flavors develop evenly.
• Once your extract has steeped to your liking, it’s ready to use! You can leave the vanilla beans in the vodka (the flavor will continue to intensify over time), or you can strain the extract into smaller bottles for gifting or personal use.