Learn how to make homemade vanilla extract with my super simple recipe/tutorial! Includes detailed instructions, free printable labels, and a how-to video!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Resting Time 90 daysdays
Total Time 90 daysdays
Servings 24servings (1 tsp per serving, recipe makes one 4-oz bottle)
Printable labelsClick link to view and print. Print on sticker paper then cut out and attach to bottles.
Kitchen Scale(recommended for weighing beans, for best results)
Ingredients
½cup(118ml)mid-shelf vodka, like Smirnoff¹(4oz)
2-3wholevanilla beans²(½ oz vanilla beans). see note.
Instructions
Thoroughly clean, wash, and dry bottles and lids that you’ll be using. Cut vanilla beans so that they will fit inside your bottles.
2-3 whole vanilla beans²
Split beans lengthwise so that the tiny seeds are exposed.
Place cut vanilla beans in bottle. Fit funnel over the top of the bottle and add liquor until the beans are fully submerged. Leave a little bit of space at the top of the bottle so that you will be able to shake the contents as they sit.
½ cup mid-shelf vodka, like Smirnoff¹
Add label, if using, but make sure to mark the date that the vanilla was bottled. Store in a cool, dark place and shake occasionally (about once a week). Store vanilla for at least 3 months before using (the longer it sits, the better!).
Video
Notes
Bottles
I link to the clear bottles I use above, but here are the alternative amber-colored bottles.
¹Alcohol
A mid-shelf liquor is perfect for this recipe, don’t bother with splurging on anything expensive. Bourbon also works well. See blog post for more detail on using other types of alcohol.
²Vanilla Beans
As with every recipe, It's always best to go by weight when measuring your beans, rather than bean count. If you can't, look for large, plump beans and know that if your beans aren't plump, you may need to use extra vanilla beans. If your beans are dry or brittle, don't use them.I use and recommend grade B Madagascar vanilla beans. I typically buy my beans from Beanilla.com and have always been satisfied with the high quality, plump beans.
Storing
Store in a cool, dark place. Homemade vanilla should keep for up to 5 years, but if it smells unpleasant or is cloudy you should discard.