Servings
Font
Back
5.0 from 303 votes

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Pure Vanilla Extract will elevate everything you bake, and with my step-by-step instructions you can make your own in 5 minutes.

Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
5 mins
Servings: 16 ounces
Calories: 77 kcal
Course: Side Dish , Others
Cuisine: American

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

    Cup of Yum
  1. Gather ingredients and jar(s). You will need 4-5 beans for every 8 ounces (1 cup) of alcohol.
  2. 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).
  3. Fill jars with vodka. Secure lid tightly on the bottle and shake gently.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 Information

Calories 77kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%) Fat 0.5g (1%) Sodium 0.3mg (0%) Potassium 0.3mg (0%) Iron 0.003mg (0%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 16ounces

Amount Per Serving

Calories 77

% Daily Value*

Calories 77kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Fat 0.5g 1%
Sodium 0.3mg 0%
Potassium 0.3mg 0%
Iron 0.003mg 0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.