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–+ servings
Three jars of homemade vanilla extract with varying darkness.
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Homemade Vanilla Extract

Made with two ingredients, this Homemade Vanilla Extract comes together easily in a few simple steps. Use it in any recipe that calls for vanilla extract!
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 2 cups
Calories 613kcal
Author John Kanell

Equipment

  • Glass jar
  • Knife

Ingredients

  • 10 whole vanilla beans
  • 2 cups vodka 80 proof

Instructions

  • Using a sharp paring knife, split the vanilla beans in half down the length of each bean to expose the seeds. Place the split beans in a pint-sized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Pour the vodka over the beans and seal. Shake vigorously.
  • Store the jar in a spot away from direct sunlight and shake it occasionally. I like to shake it at least once a week, but shake it whenever you remember to. For the best flavor, let the beans steep for 6 months or up to 12 months. However, you can use the extract after 2 months, it just won’t be as strong.
  • Once the extract is ready, you can transfer the liquid to 4-ounce glass bottles for easy use or gifting. Place a piece of vanilla bean in each bottle if desired.

Video

Notes

  • This recipe yields 16 ounces, so you'll need 4 4-ounce glass bottles for gifting.
  • The more fresh and soft the vanilla beans are, the easier they are to slice open.
  • If you do not have vodka on hand, you can use bourbon, rum, or brandy instead. As long as the alcohol is 80-proof, you can use just about any alcohol. A higher proof will produce a stronger extract in a shorter period of time.
  • Keep in mind that using different alcohol will change the flavor as vodka is the most neutral option. For example, using bourbon will make your extract slightly smoky with caramel undernotes, but using rum will lead to a sweeter extract as rum is distilled from sugarcane.
  • Use a narrow bottle or a small jar to easily cover the vanilla beans entirely with vodka.
  • If you have extra vanilla beans leftover, make sure to store them properly, or they’ll dry out. Wrap extra vanilla beans in either wax paper or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight glass container or vacuum-sealed. Store them in a cool, dark place, not the fridge, as refrigeration can cause excess moisture.
  • A funnel makes it much easier to pour the vodka into the bottles if they’re narrow. If you do not have a funnel, you can pour the vodka into a measuring cup so the spout can prevent spillage.
  • ​​If you want to make extract in less time, you can use more vanilla beans with the same amount of vodka. Given the cost of vanilla beans, time is your budget-conscious friend if you can plan for it. That being said, making homemade vanilla extract is still much cheaper than buying it!

Nutrition

Calories: 613kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 4g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 2mg | Iron: 1mg