Homemade Vanilla Extract

Name: Homemade Vanilla Extract
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 365 d 5 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1 cup vodka; 5-6 vanilla bean

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Balanced, flavorful, and enjoyable—this recipe has it all.

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Use a knife to split the vanilla beans lengthwise so the beans are exposed. If your vanilla beans are too long for your jar, simply cut them into smaller pieces, if desired.
Pour vodka through a funnel into the clean glass jar making sure the beans are fully submerged in the vodka. Seal with the lid and shake a few times.
Store at room temperature in a dark place out of direct sunlight. Shake the jar every week.
Store for at least 8 weeks, but I recommend 6-12 months for the best flavor.
Side Note: As you begin to use your vanilla, you can refill with a little vodka each time. Give it a shake after you refill and give it a shake before using, too. If you’re gifting the vanilla or if you don’t have any more alcohol to refill, remove the beans completely after the first use because they will become slimy if they aren’t submerged.
Side Note: Unused aged vanilla extract (with the beans fully submerged) will last several years. If it smells good, it is still good to use. Aged extract without the beans will last indefinitely. Once you start using the vanilla and adding more alcohol after each use, the beans will eventually need to be replaced after about 1 year because the vanilla flavor will become less intense. Simply remove & discard the old vanilla beans, add fresh beans, shake, and continue to use/refill.