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4.5 from 93 votes

How to Make Vanilla Extract

This homemade vanilla extract is made from just two ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. Let it sit for at least one month (longer is better!) and it'll be ready to use for baking or to give as a gift.

Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 8 ounces
Calories: 81 kcal
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce vanilla beans (about 7 beans), slit lengthwise (do not cut the whole way through)
  • 1 cup vodka

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Place the vanilla beans into an 8-ounce jar, cutting the beans if necessary so that they fit.
  2. Pour the vodka over the beans, ensuring that the beans are fully submerged, seal the jar and give it a few shakes.
  3. Place the jar in a cool, dark spot for at least 1 month, giving the bottle a shake once or twice a week.

Notes

  • Steeping - Let the extract steep for at least 1 month before using, but longer is better! If you can let it go for 6 or 12 months, the flavor will be amazing.
  • Gifting - If you are gifting the extract, remove the vanilla beans first.
  • Refreshing/Replenishing - If you are using at home, top off with alcohol as you use it to keep the beans submerged.
  • After 1 year of using/topping off, remove the vanilla beans, and replace them with fresh beans.
  • Nutritional values are based on one ounce
  • Alcohol - Bourbon or rum may be substituted for the vodka.
  • Steeping - Let the extract steep for at least 1 month before using, but longer is better! If you can let it go for 6 or 12 months, the flavor will be amazing.
  • Gifting - If you are gifting the extract, remove the vanilla beans first.
  • Refreshing/Replenishing - If you are using at home, top off with alcohol as you use it to keep the beans submerged. After 1 year of using/topping off, remove the vanilla beans, and replace them with fresh beans.

Nutrition Information

Calories 81kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 8ounces

Amount Per Serving

Calories 81

% Daily Value*

Calories 81kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%

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