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Homemade vanilla extract

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Elegant, aromatic, and so easy to make. This homemade vanilla extract uses real vanilla beans and vodka, bottled beautifully in swing-top bottles. Perfect for baking, gifting during the holidays, or adding a touch of homemade luxury to your kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 6 Bottles
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 25-30 Whole vanilla beans
  • 64 oz Vodka 8 oz per bottle

Equipment

  • Small sharp knife
  • Cutting Board
  • 6 8 oz Swing-top bottles
  • Funnel
  • Label optional
  • Ribbon for tying a bow, optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the vanilla beans
    Start by slicing each vanilla bean lengthwise to expose the tiny seeds inside. You don’t need to scrape them out, just cutting them open helps the flavor infuse faster. If your beans are too long for the bottle, you can cut them in half.
  2. Add the beans to the bottles
    Place 5–6 vanilla beans into each 8 oz swing-top bottle. Don’t worry if they float at first, they’ll eventually sink as they absorb liquid.
  3. Pour in the vodka
    Fill each bottle with vodka, covering the vanilla beans completely. Seal the bottles tightly. Give them a gentle shake to start the infusion process.
  4. Store and wait
    Place the bottles in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or cupboard). Shake them once or twice a week. Over the next 2–3 months, the vodka will darken and develop a rich vanilla scent. The longer it sits, the stronger and more complex the flavor becomes. Ideally, start this project in early fall to have it ready for holiday gifting, but even a few weeks can create a wonderfully fragrant extract.