How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

Homemade vanilla extract is one of those things that seems like it would be hard to make or too fancy of a thing to even consider doing. Because the end result really is so fantastic that it tricks you into thinking it wouldn’t be worth it! But I am here, to tell you friends, that it is.

Vanilla extract, like real vanilla, is expensive. And that price tag usually isn’t for that big of a bottle.

Making it yourself is one of those things that really becomes quite cost efficient because of the amount you can make at one time.

And it’s two ingredients- doesn’t get much simpler than that, no?

The only thing that makes DIY vanilla a tad dramatic is that it needs time to sit. Like months to a year time to sit. Many recipes say a month or two. In my experience, that is not long enough to really combine the flavors and turn it from pure alcohol to vanilla.

So take note that if you are beginning this project now, it will not be ready for several more months. It is December 18th as I write this so this is your sign to make it now for NEXT year’s gifts.

I have gifted little bottles of my bourbon vanilla to teachers, friends and neighbors. In my humble opinion, nothing says love and care like taking the time to make a gift for someone. I know *I* appreciate when someone gifts me something that they took the time to make. Our next door neighbor’s son, who is 10, made us the most beautiful wreath for our front door this winter season and it is one of my favorite gifts ever.

If you are pressed for that much time, you can give a little bottle with a note that says to let it sit for a few months. I have done that in the past.

WHAT YOU NEED

1. Alcohol that is at least 70 proof. This can be vodka, bourbon, brandy, rum. I chose bourbon because it pairs so well with the vanilla flavor. It does not need to be expensive or fancy alcohol. My husband told me to use Larceny bourbon because it’s a nice middle of the road option. I use a 750ml bottle.

2. Fresh, soft vanilla beans (pods). 15 beans per 750ml. These are the ones I use.

HOW TO MAKE

1. Slit beans down the middle, exposing the seeds. I scraped some seeds out and put them directly in the bottle. Put split beans in the bottle.
2. Reseal bottle and shake vigorously.
3. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 3-6 months.
4. Shake every so often.
5. If you are going to gift the vanilla, pour into smaller bottles using a small funnel.
6. Tie some beautiful ribbon on and voila! A beautiful, homemade gift.

Notes:

I got small French bottles at The Container Store. Any bottle that seals properly will do.

I added some of the split beans to the gifted bottles so the flavors could continue to meld together.