You’ll need a glass jar with a good lifespan for this – vintage ones if you can get them look great. Or copy my sister and use a small bottle of vodka.
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Make Your Own Vanilla Extract
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Makes 7 ounces 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Make your own vanilla extract and enjoy superior flavor. This simple recipe takes just minutes to prepare and creates a beautiful gift.
Ingredients
- 200 ml (7 fl oz) VODKA
- 3-4 vanilla beans
Instructions
- Pour the vodka into a clean glass jar using a funnel.
- Split three to four vanilla beans (don’t cut to the end) and add them to the jar.
- Secure the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake occasionally to infuse the vodka with the vanilla beans.
- After three to four months, you will have perfect vanilla essence.
Notes
- Use a high-quality vodka for the best flavor outcome.
- For stronger flavor, increase the number of vanilla beans or let it infuse for longer (up to 6 months).
- Once opened, store the vanilla extract in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Infusion
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 0
- Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 0
- Cholesterol: 0
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of alcohol should I use to make vanilla extract at home?
Vodka is the most common choice because its neutral flavor lets the vanilla shine through. Bourbon or dark rum are good alternatives if you want a slightly richer, more complex extract.
How many vanilla beans do I need per cup of alcohol?
A standard ratio is 5 to 6 vanilla beans per cup (240ml) of alcohol for a strong extract. Split the beans lengthwise before submerging them so the seeds and pod both infuse into the liquid.
How long does homemade vanilla extract need to sit before it is ready to use?
It needs at least 8 weeks in a dark, cool spot, with occasional shaking. The flavor continues to develop over several months, so the longer it sits, the more intense it becomes.
