How to Make Homemade Extracts (Any flavor!)

Name: How to Make Homemade Extracts (Any flavor!)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 365 d 5 min
Yield: 8 ounces
Ingredients: 1 ounce whole vanilla beans; 8 ounces vodka

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Prep Time
5 mins
Extraction Process Time
365 d
Total Time
365 d 5 mins
Servings
8 ounces
Calories
67 kcal
Cuisine
American

How to Make Homemade Extracts (Any flavor!)

Brielle Calderon

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Homemade extracts made simple! Follow our easy guide with pro tips for steeping, storing, and using them just like store-bought.

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Ingredients

Servings

Vanilla Extract

1 ounce whole vanilla beans
8 ounces vodka

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Instructions

Use a sharp knife to split each vanilla bean pod open lengthwise to expose the seeds inside.
Place the split vanilla beans into an 8-ounce glass jar or bottle.
Pour the vodka into the jar, covering the vanilla beans while leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
Seal the jar tightly with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar gently every 2–3 days for best results.
Let the vanilla extract infuse for at least 6 weeks. The longer it sits, the stronger the flavor. Ideally, vanilla extract is best when it steeps for 12 to 18 months.
Once ready, use as, no need to strain. The extract will keep indefinitely when stored properly. The vanilla beans can be reused once, though the flavor will be more muted.

Notes

Make Any Flavor:
Almond Extract: ½ cup (65g) bitter almonds, apricot kernels, or peach pits (or 1 cup slivered sweet almonds for a milder extract) + 8 ounces vodka. Steep 3 to 4 months. Strain.
Citrus Extract: ½ cup (loosely packed) lemon or orange zest, avoiding the white pith (about 6 lemons) + 8 ounces vodka. Steep 6 to 8 weeks. Strain.
Mint or Herb Extract: 1 cup loosely packed dried mint leaves (or steep fresh mint for only 1-2 hours before straining) + 8 ounces Everclear or vodka. Steep 6 to 8 weeks (dried mint). Strain. The same principles apply to any herb.
Coconut Extract: ½ cup (50g) unsweetened dried coconut flakes (for a stronger flavor) or 1 cup freshly grated coconut meat + 8 ounces vodka. Steep 2 to 3 months. Strain.
Cinnamon Extract: 3 to 4 whole cinnamon sticks (about 15g) + 8 ounces vodka or dark rum. Steep 6 to 8 weeks. Strain if flavor becomes too strong. The same principles apply to any whole, hard spice like nutmeg or cloves.