Homemade Vanilla Extract
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Listen, I know making your own homemade vanilla extract can seem like an extra step but it truly is such a game-changer for any recipe that requires it!
It’s so easy to make (the hardest part is waiting for it to develop), but once you do, I promise you won’t go back to store-bought. It’s richer, more flavorful, and useful for just about any dessert recipe you can think of!
You can use this homemade extract in everything from my favorite brownie recipe, vanilla ice cream, peach slab pie bars, homemade buttermilk pancakes, or my infamous Kroll’s Kookies!
Not only does this homemade vanilla taste better, but it also makes the cutest, most practical gifts! I love putting together a few batches of these with my free printable labels to have on hand as hostess gifts, teacher gifts, or Christmas gifts for friends and family! It can also make a super fun girls’ night to get together and put them together to have in a few months!
It’s amazing how much homemade staples can really enhance your recipes. For similar recipes, check out my Go-To Homemade Chicken Stock or How To Brown Butter recipe.
Table Talk with Tawnie
This is a recipe I’ve wanted to write for long time. As simple as it seems, it’s truly a game-changer having this homemade vanilla on hand for baking! Not only does it taste so much better than store-bought, but it’s so much for cost-effective since you can just continue to top off the beans as you use your extract! I mean, have you seen the price of pure vanilla extract at the grocery store?!🤯 This recipe is definitely the way to go for any baker!
- Madagascar vanilla beans: I used these Madagascar vanilla beans. Madagascar beans have a rich, creamy, classic flavor that’s perfect for all-purpose baking. Use grade A or B vanilla beans for the best quality.
- High proof alcohol: The alcohol extracts the flavor and preserves the beans. I prefer to use vodka because it’s the most neutral and really allows the vanilla to shine, but you could also use rum, bourbon, or brandy. Just make sure to use a high-proof alcohol, 70–100 proof (35–50% ABV) alcohol.
Step-by-Step Directions
(For the full recipe, scroll down to the recipe card below)
Slice the vanilla beans
Use a paring knife to split the beans lengthwise. Then, cut in half and place the cut vanilla beans in a clean jar.
Add vodka
Using a funnel, pour the vodka over the vanilla beans. They should be completely submerged. But leave a little space at the top of the jar for shaking.
Wait⏳
Store in a cool, dark, dry spot – like in the pantry (no refrigeration required) for several months (~6-12 months for the best flavor). Give it a little shake every week or every few days to help with the extraction.
Start baking and enjoy!
Use the vanilla extract in your favorite recipes and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Make in advance: This is the easiest recipe but does require a little bit of planning. The vanilla extract takes 6-12 months to achieve optimal flavor so if you’re hoping to have these jars as homemade Christmas gifts, I suggest assembling them in July!
- Great for gifting! Use small 8 oz. jars like these for the cutest, easiest gifts!
- Free printable labels: Print off my free labels on adhesive paper to give your vanilla extract that extra special touch!
- Date your bottles: I highly recommend adding the date to your bottles so you know when it will be ready!
- Continue to top it off: As you use the vanilla extract, top it off with more vodka to keep the vanilla beans submerged and the flavor potent. If you feel the flavor starts to weaken over time, add new fresh vanilla beans to the extract.
Free Printable Labels!
Print off my free labels on sticker adhesive paper to stick on your glass bottles!
Storage / Freezing
Store in a cool, dark, dry spot – like in the pantry—no refrigeration required.
FAQs
What type of vanilla beans should I use?
Madagascar bourbon beans are most popular for their rich, creamy flavor. Tahitian beans are more floral and fruity, while Mexican beans offer bold, spicy notes. Use Grade A or B beans (dry and extract-grade) for optimal taste.
How long does homemade vanilla extract last?
Indefinitely! The alcohol preserves the beans. The flavor may mellow over several years, but won’t spoil. Just make sure the beans stay submerged by continuing to top off with alcohol as you use the vanilla, and if you notice the flavor starts to weaken, you can add fresh beans.
Why does my vanilla extract look cloudy?
If your vanilla extract looks cloudy or has sediment, that’s completely normal! Discoloration is due to natural oils and vanilla particles. You can strain it through a coffee filter or cheesecloth if you prefer a clear extract, but it’s safe to use as-is.
How often do I need to shake the vanilla as it sits?
In the first few weeks, I like to shake it every couple of days to help break up the vanilla beans. Then, after that, about once a week is good practice.
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Homemade Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
- 5-6 madagascar vanilla beans
- ¾ cup vodka or high proof alcohol ((80 proof) Rum, bourbon, or brandy are also options.)
Last step! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.
Instructions
- *Note: this recipe is for just one, 8 oz. jar/bottle. Use this formula for each bottle if preparing multiple bottles. 🤗
- Slice the vanilla beans: Use a paring knife to split the beans lengthwise. Then cut in half and place in the clean jar.5-6 madagascar vanilla beans
- Add vodka: Using a funnel, pour the vodka over the vanilla beans. They should be completely submerged. But leave a little space at the top of the jar for shaking.¾ cup vodka or high proof alcohol
- The waiting game: The hardest step! Homemade vanilla extract tastes best after several months of resting, 6-12 months for best flavor.
- Shake: Give it a little shake every week or every few days to help with the extraction.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark, dry spot – like in the pantry—no refrigeration required.
- Use: Use the vanilla extract in your favorite recipes!
Equipment
Video
Notes
- Make in advance: This is the easiest recipe but does require a little bit of planning. The vanilla takes 6-12 months to achieve optimal flavor so if you’re hoping to have these jars as homemade Christmas gifts, I suggest assembling them in July!
- Great for gifting! Use small 8 oz. jars like these for the cutest, easiest gifts!
- Free printable labels: Print off my free labels to give your vanilla extract that extra special touch!
- Sticker labels: Print out labels on sticker adhesive paper and then cut out and stick on bottles!
- Date your bottles: I highly recommend adding the date you bottled the vanilla so you know when it will be ready!
- Continue to top it off: As you use the vanilla extract, top it off with more vodka to keep the vanilla beans submerged and the flavor potent. If you feel the flavor starts to weaken over time, add new fresh vanilla beans to the extract.
Nutrition Information
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is automatically calculated. It should only be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary and Kroll’s Korner can’t make any guarantees to the accuracy of this information.
📸 Photos by Megan McKeehan of The Broke Girl Table
You read my mind!!! I have wanted to do this for quite some time but rather than google, getting a recipe from a fantastic baker is the best! Question though, how long does this typically last? You talked about adding more Vodka and beans to keep it strong, but is there something that would indicate it’s “gone bad”? Thank you!
Thanks so much Susan! I hope you have fun making it:) good question. It will last for several years, I use the smell test..if it seems to smell bad, that’s a good sign not to use it. It should smell like a strong vanilla. And be sure to store it properly. Happy vanilla making!!