Vanilla Extract Recipe: Easy and Perfect for Baking

Making your own homemade vanilla extract is the easiest way to add a deep, authentic flavor to your favorite recipes. With just whole vanilla beans and a few pantry staples, you’ll create a DIY kitchen essential that’s perfect for holiday baking or gifting.

There’s something so satisfying about crafting your own homemade vanilla extract from scratch. It offers the best flavor by letting you control the quality and ingredients. Whether you use Tahitian vanilla beans for floral notes or Madagascar vanilla beans for a rich, classic taste, the result is unbeatable. Plus, a glass bottle of your homemade extract makes a great gift for loved ones during the holiday season.

Ruby Ann and I whip up a big batch every Christmas season, using high-quality Grade B beans and a bottle of vodka. The best part? It’s customizable! Mix and match different varieties of vanilla beans to craft a unique flavor that outshines any store-bought vanilla extract. We also love to reuse our vanilla pods for a second infusion, making it even more cost-effective.

If you enjoy fun kitchen projects like this, you’ll adore our Vanilla Marshmallows or Sourdough Lemon Poppy Pound Cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-friendly – Save on the price of vanilla by making your own in large quantities.
• Versatile and custom-made – Use different types of whole beans to craft flavors for every occasion.
• Perfect for gifting – Share small bottles of this delicious extract as thoughtful holiday gifts.

Ingredients you will need

• Vanilla Beans – Madagascar beans bring bold, classic flavors, while Tahitian and Mexican beans add unique aromas.
• Vodka or Spiced Rum – Neutral vodka creates a classic extract, while spiced rum adds depth and warmth.

A full list of ingredients with exact amounts is available in the recipe card below.

Tools you may need

• Sharp Knife – To split the vanilla beans and release their flavor.
• Glass Jar – A clean, airtight container to store your vanilla extract as it infuses.
• Plastic Strainer – For filtering the seeds from the extract when it’s ready.
• Label: To use for writing what day you made it and when it will be ready. Grab your FREE Printable HERE!!!

How To Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Beans

Use a sharp knife to split the vanilla beans lengthwise, exposing the flavorful vanilla seeds inside. Cut them into smaller pieces if necessary to fit your jar.

Step 2: Add the Alcohol

Place the split beans into a clean glass jar. Cover them with your choice of alcohol, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.

Step 3: Seal and Shake

Seal the jar tightly with a tight-fitting lid. Give it a good shake to mix the seeds and alcohol.

Step 4: Store and Infuse

Store the jar in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Shake it once a week for the first month to encourage even infusion. Allow it to infuse for at least six months.

Step 5: Strain and Bottle

After infusion, strain the extract using a plastic strainer to remove the vanilla pods. Pour the liquid into smaller bottles for easy use or gifting.

Tips

• Choose Fresh Beans – Use fresh vanilla beans for the richest flavor. Avoid the cheap stuff for higher quality results.
• Let It Sit – The longer you let the extract infuse, the better the flavor. Start a new batch right after finishing your last batch.
• Experiment with Alcohol – Try bourbon or brandy for different flavor profiles.

Recipe FAQs

How long should I let the vanilla beans infuse?

For the best flavor, allow the beans to infuse for at least six months. Twelve months will give you an even richer flavor.

Can I use different types of alcohol?

Yes! Vodka is the most neutral, but spiced rum, bourbon, or brandy can create unique flavors for your homemade vanilla extract.

Can I reuse vanilla beans?

Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Add a few fresh beans to extend the life of your extract.

More DIY Recipes from the Cottage;

• Sourdough Lady Fingers
• Vanilla Marshmallows
• Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Pound Cake
• Tiramisu
• Sourdough Animal Crackers Recipe (discard or starter)

5 from 6 votes

Easy Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe (how to make)

Author: Emily Rider

There's something special about making your own vanilla extract. Not only does it fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of vanilla, but it also adds a personal touch to your baking. And the best part? It's easy to do! With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can create a homemade vanilla extract that will take your baked goods to the next level.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time:10 minutes mins

Additional Time:180 days d

Total Time:180 days d 10 minutes mins

Course: Homemade Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 16 ounces

Calories: 12kcal

Ingredients

• 2 ounces of vanilla beans grade A or B
• 16 ounces of Spiced Rum

How To Make

1. To make your own homemade vanilla extract, cut your vanilla beans down the center. Gently pry open your pod, exposing all the vanilla bean seeds inside.
2. Place your cut-open vanilla beans inside the clean bottle and pour in your choice of alcohol.
3. Close the bottle well with an airtight top. 
4. Shake and label your bottle.
5. Store this bottle in a dark, cool place and shake periodically to mix up the extract and help incorporate the seed with the liquid. 
6. Let your vanilla beans and alcohol marry for 6-12 months (optimal is 12 months) in a dark, cool location to create the most amazing vanilla extract you have ever tasted.

Video

Notes

• Choose high-quality vanilla beans – Grade A or B are best.
• Use a high-proof alcohol, such as Spiced Rum or vodka.
• Cut the vanilla beans down the center to expose the seeds inside.
• Use a clean glass bottle with an airtight top to store your vanilla extract.
• Store the bottle in a cool, dark place and shake it periodically to mix the extract.
• Let the vanilla beans and alcohol marry for 6-12 months for optimal flavor.
• Strain the extract before using it in your favorite recipes.
• Experiment with different types of alcohol and vanilla beans to create unique flavor profiles.
• Label your bottle with the date you made the extract so you know when it's ready to use.
• Use homemade vanilla extract in baked goods such as pumpkin spiced rice krispie treats, fluffy homemade vanilla marshmallows, and more.
• Have fun! Making your vanilla extract is an easy and rewarding DIY project that will take your baking to the next level.

Nutrition

Calories: 12kcal