Here is an easy way to replace your store bought, synthetic vanilla with homemade vanilla extract. It is pure goodness! It only takes 2 simple ingredients and time (and patience!) until you can enjoy it or gift it to your favorite bakers!

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It takes only two simple ingredients

All you need is decent vanilla beans and vodka. I use Madagascar beans because they are recommended the most for baking and that is what I use my vanilla for. There is no need to splurge on top shelf vodka! Some buy mid shelf, and some by the cheap stuff…this part is totally up to you!

Other Alcohols to make Homemade Vanilla Extract

Vodka is not the ony type of alcohol that you can use here. Rum, bourbon, brandy have all been used with success. It just depends what type of flavor you are going for. I prefer the classic taste of vanilla, so I always opt for vodka, but you could get a little wild and use other options! The main thing is that it is 80 proof alcohol.

Other Items Needed

You need some type of container to put your vanilla in while it works its magic. This is what I like to use. Then, I will put them in smaller ones if I want to gift them, like these ones here (they even come with cute little funnels so you don’t spill!). Clear glass is perfect if you can keep them in a cupboard. If not, I would recommend getting amber glass like these.

How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

We are finally to the nitty gritty! This is a super easy process. My son did it in the pictures. First, you’ll want to make sure your vanilla beans will fit in the bottle. Trim them down if you need to in order to get them to fit.

Then, cut them lengthwise with a sharp knife to expose the tiny little vanilla beans.

Place the beans in the bottle. Pour in the vodka until the vanilla beans are completely submerged. Make sure there is a little space at the top, as you will be shaking these regularly to really allow the flavor to come out of the beans.

FAQs

How long does this Homemade Vanilla Extract last? As long as it is stored in a cool, dark place, it can last years! Once you use some, you can always add more vodka as long as you still have the beans in there.

How do you make clear vanilla extract? Clear extract is something different. Anytime you use vanilla beans, it will tint it this brownish color. Clear extract is synthetic and artificially flavored.

How do you gift vanilla extract? If you’d like to put extract in cute little bottles for gifting, you’ll first remove the vanilla beans and strain the liquid to remove any small seeds or pieces of the vanilla bean that has sloughed off. Using a small funnel, pour it into the small jar. You can find a ton of cute labels online to print onto a sticker. Then add some fun colored twine and gift away!

Have you ever made your own vanilla extract? How about almond extract? What are some things you now make at home rather than buy in the store?