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Homemade Vanilla Extract

Once you start making your own Homemade Vanilla Extract, you may never go back to store-bought. It’s richer, more flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Plus, it doubles as a thoughtful, fuss-free gift—perfect for holidays, birthdays, or hostess treats that feel both personal and practical.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword homemade vanilla extract
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 1 bottle
Calories 12kcal
Author Tawnie Graham of Kroll's Korner

Equipment

  • Small bottles

Ingredients

US Customary - Metric

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
    Side-by-side photo of slicing vanilla beans for homemade vanilla extract and placing them in small jars.
  • 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
    Side-by-side image of pouring vodka over vanilla beans and making sure they are completely submerged.
  • 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.
    Side-by-side of shaking vanilla extract bottles to help with extraction and letting the bottles rest for 6-12 months to fully extract.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dark, dry spot - like in the pantry—no refrigeration required.
  • Use: Use the vanilla extract in your favorite recipes!

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

Serving: 1tsp. | Calories: 12kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Sugar: 1g