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Homemade Vanilla Extract
5 from 18 votes

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Homemade vanilla extract is created by infusing split vanilla bean pods in warm vodka, bourbon, or rum. The beans are added to the alcohol in a bottle and left to steep in a dark place for six to eight months, allowing the flavor to develop fully. Periodic shaking initially helps release the beans’ aroma and vanilla compounds into the liquid, producing a rich, aromatic extract for use in baking and cooking.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
1 min
Extraction Time
180 d
Total Time
180 d 6 mins
Servings: 7
Calories: 83 kcal
Course: Cake
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 5 to 6 Vanilla Beans (from Madagascar, Tahiti or Mexico)
  • 8 ounces vodka (or bourbon or rum)
  • bottle
  • funnel

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a small saucepan, set over medium-low heat, add the vodka. Warm it up until it’s warm to the touch. No need to take it to a boil. You just want it a bit warm.
  2. Using a paring knife, split open the vanilla bean pod to expose the beans. Add them to the bottle you’re using.
  3. Pour the vodka over the beans and close the lid. Label the bottle with the name and date. Store in a dark place. Every few days, in the beginning, you want to give it a shake. After those the first week, you can just give it a shake every week or so.
  4. Store in a dark cool place and in 6 to 8 months, you’ll have beautiful homemade vanilla extract.

Notes

  • Split vanilla beans thoroughly to expose the seeds for better flavor extraction.
  • Use a clean bottle or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid for storage.
  • Shake the bottle daily during the first week of infusion, then weekly thereafter to distribute flavor evenly.
  • Vanilla extract matures best stored in a cool, dark place for at least 6 to 8 months.
  • For alcohol-free extract, substitute vodka with food-grade glycerin in equal amounts.
  • Consider making larger batches in a mason jar if frequently using vanilla extract.
  • Funnels are helpful for pouring liquids neatly into bottles and jars.

Nutrition Information

Calories 83kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%) Fat 1g (2%) Sodium 0.3mg (0%) Potassium 0.3mg (0%) Iron 0.003mg (0%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 7 Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 83

% Daily Value*

Calories 83kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Fat 1g 2%
Sodium 0.3mg 0%
Potassium 0.3mg 0%
Iron 0.003mg 0%

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