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Pure Vanilla Extract will elevate everything you bake, and you can make your own in just 5 minutes. It's great for gifting with my free labels, and can even be re-filled when you run out.
There are certain basic essentials I always make from home to save money, and they're just way better, like Taco Seasoning, Healthy Granola, Playdough, and Protein Bars.
Homemade Vanilla Extract is the inexpensive baking upgrade you need.
Homemade Vanilla Extract is the inexpensive baking upgrade you need. I've been making our Vanilla Extract recipe for many years and it's my favorite way to save money while still getting high quality, pure vanilla extract for baking. The best part is, once your vanilla runs out, you can refill the bottle with vodka, using the same used vanilla beans (they last for two batches). It's makes a great gift, using our free labels, bottles, and label paper, for neighbors at Christmas or a housewarming gift to a friend.
What you'll need:
- Vanilla Beans: Use high quality Grade B Vanilla Madagascar Beans (or Tahitian or Mexican beans, if you prefer). You need 4-5 vanilla beans for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of vodka. Find vanilla beans in the baking aisle or online (I've bought them from Costco, too).
- Alcohol: 80 proof Vodka–any cheap brand will work. Brandy, rum, or bourbon also work, for different flavor variation.
- Glass jars to put the vanilla in. A basic Mason jar works for personal everyday use, or these 4oz or 8oz glass jars are perfect for gifting to friends and neighbors.
- Funnel
About the Vanilla Beans:
Which Beans to use for Vanilla Extract?
There are Grade A and Grade B vanilla beans. Grade A beans have above 25% moisture (water) so they're easy to split open for desserts like ice cream or crème brûlée. Grade B vanilla beans have less than 25% moisture, so they're perfect for vanilla extract where they brew for a long time, can produce a stronger flavor ,and are usually less expensive. Grade A vanilla beans will work if that's what you have on hand.
- Madagascar Vanilla Beans: The most common flavor used in vanilla extract.
- Tahitian Vanilla Beans: Has hints of cherry and anise.
- Mexican Vanilla Beans: Has hints of clove and nutmeg.
How to make Vanilla Extract:
Score Vanilla Beans: Gently cut slits lengthwise in the vanilla beans with a sharp knife then place beans in a jar. (You may need to cut them in half to fit in the jar). You need 4-5 Vanilla bean per 8 ounces (1 cup) alcohol.
Add Vodka: Using a funnel, carefully fill the bottle with Vodka. Make sure the vanilla pods are fully submerged in alcohol. Secure lid tightly and shake gently. Rest/brew for 6 months in a cool dark place. Use it in your favorite cakes, cookies and other desserts.
Free Printable Labels for Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract is the perfect gift, so I've provided these FREE Printable Labels that are 2” squares, to stick on your bottles for gifts. I use my regular printer to print them off on this label paper.
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Equipment
- Glass Bottles or jars
Ingredients
- 10 Vanilla Madagascar beans, Grade B , , (or Tahitian or Mexican beans, if preferred)
- 2 cups Vodka, , 80 proof
- Vanilla Extract Printable Labels, , optional
Instructions
- Gather ingredients and jar(s). You will need 4-5 beans for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of alcohol.
- Gently cut slits, lengthwise down the vanilla beans, using a sharp knife. Place the vanilla beans in jar (cut them in half if needed, to submerge them in alcohol).
- Fill jars with vodka. Secure lid tightly on the bottle and shake gently.
- Allow to steep/brew for at least 2 months, or ideally 6-12 months for best flavor. Shake bottles occasionally. Write date on jars or use our labels.
- When running low, add more vodka to the bottle and brew again, reusing the same beans for up to one more batch.
Notes
- Vanilla Beans: Use high quality Grade B Vanilla Madagascar Beans (or Tahitian or Mexican beans, if you prefer). Find vanilla beans in the baking aisle or online (I've bought them from Costco, too).
- Alcohol: 80 proof Vodka–any inexpensive brand will work. Try brandy, rum, or bourbon for different flavor variation.
- Containers: A basic Mason jar works for personal everyday use, or these 4oz or 8oz glass jars are perfect for gifting to friends and neighbors.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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I originally shared this post May 2020. Updated July 2024.
Love, love, love this recipe! Better than commercial vanilla by far. I did exactly what Laura instructed and waited 6 months. I used it in Laura’s vanilla cake and was blown away by the difference. I willing to look past FDA standards for such amazing flavor! Thank you Laura!
I made your Vanilla Extract early last year and let steep for about 10 months before transferring to small gift bottles to tuck into my Christmas cookie baskets. Everyone loved them. The labels give them a great finished look. I did give it a little boost by using vanilla flavored vodka. I removed a small amount of the vodka and added the beans directly to the vodka container. Will make again. Thank you for the recipe and cute labels.
I have use this method and it works wonderfully. my great great aunt who is 94 wanted to make homemade vanilla extract. I researched it and this is exactly how we made it and she loves it.
Sounds so simple!
Thanks.
Do I need to can or pressure seal them later?
I just opened mine after a year, I tasted it and it tastes like vodka more than vanilla! What should I do?
Any update on this?
I much prefer using good bourbon. Be patient, at least 6 months.
Just let it stew until you only smell vanilla. A lot depends on the beans, costco ones are the best. They usually only carry around the holidays. Mine took over two years and it was totally worth the wait.
Why do you not use plastic bottles ?
I am going to make this, when it is ready do you use it as the exact amount called for in recipes?! 1:1
Yes. Enjoy!
I love your vanilla extract recipe and am ordering the supplies to make it with a good vodka. But I have a question. I was given a bottle of good 7 year old cognac. Would this work for vanilla extract?
Thanks so much,
Sherrye
I’m assuming you used Avery stickers for the labels, what size?
Totally loved it! Used this recipe several times and always a winner!!
How many beans are you using for the 4 oz glass bottles you are showing in this article?
2.5 beans. (4 ounces equals 1/2 cup, and you want 5 beans for every cup (8oz) of vodka.
Just finished bottling mine. Can’t wait to give them as gifts in a few months!
I’ve recently located you on Instagram and I have to say I love your site and all the information you share! Thank you so much for all the freebies. I am ordering the materials to make your homemade vanilla.
W hen I do I’ll be sure to take some pictures and post it on Instagram and tag you.
I’m so happy you found me! I hope you enjoy the vanilla, and I’m excited to hear how it turns out!