Learning how to make vanilla extract is super easy and only requires 2 simple ingredients! In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn how to make your own vanilla extract - meaning you can enjoy the flavor of pure, homemade vanilla extract any time you want!
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Vanilla extract has to be one of the best flavorings you can have in your kitchen. It's versatile and adds the perfect hint of sweetness to any dish, dessert, or drink. Seriously, adding a touch of this sweet nectar can instantly transform any recipe!
However, store-bought vanilla extract can get expensive and contain artificial ingredients you may not want in your food. That's why learning how to make homemade vanilla extract is such a great idea. It works out much cheaper, and you know exactly what is going into it - all you need is a little patience and two simple ingredients: vanilla beans and alcohol!
Why You Should Learn How To Make Your Own Vanilla Extract
- Cheaper than store-bought. My vanilla extract recipe yields 16oz in total. When you price up the cheap vodka and fresh vanilla beans - that's a huge amount of savings!
- Impressive gifts. It's always nice to make something for someone special, and homemade vanilla extract makes the perfect gift.
- Use this method to make other extracts. Once you have mastered making your own vanilla extract, you can have a go at using other ingredients. As a bonus, I've included how to make a mint and lemon extract in this article, too!
What Is the Best Alcohol to Make Vanilla Extract?
When discovering how to make vanilla extract, you'll notice that most recipes call for alcohol as an ingredient. The type of alcohol you choose is up to you, but generally, it's best to use a spirit with at least 35% ABV or 70 Proof.
I use vodka to make my vanilla extract - and it doesn't need to be an expensive one, either. Any cheap bottle of vodka will do the job perfectly!
Rum, bourbon, and brandy could also make a good base for your extract. These types of spirits will bring out a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and find what you like best.
What Vanilla Beans Should You Use to Make Vanilla Extract?
When choosing the type of vanilla beans for your homemade extract, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. You can use whatever type of beans you want - as long as they are of good quality and fresh. Most grocery stores sell vanilla beans, but you can also buy them online.
There are over 150 varieties of vanilla worldwide, each offering different flavor profiles and nuances. Madagascar Bourbon and Tahitian vanilla are two of the most commonly used beans for making extract, as they have a strong taste and fragrant aroma.
You may notice some vanilla beans are labeled ‘Grade B.’ This means they are sold especially for making extracts.‘Grade A’ beans, usually used in baking, can also be used in this recipe.
It really doesn't matter what variety of beans you use when discovering how to make your own vanilla extract; just ensure they are soft and fresh!
How Many Vanilla Beans to Make Extract?
Now you know what beans you will use, you're likely wondering exactly how many beans you need.
The recipe card below outlines the total ingredients I use to get the perfect homemade vanilla extract. But for reference, how many vanilla beans to make extract will completely depend on how much you'd like to make and the size of the bottle/jar you are using. Generally speaking, I use between 4 vanilla beans per 8oz of vodka.
The more vanilla beans you use, the stronger your extract will be. I do find the amount I use in this recipe to be the perfect balance between sweetness and intensity.
How Long Does It Take To Make Vanilla Extract?
Making homemade vanilla extract is incredibly easy, but it does take some time. For you, the prep time will be no more than 10 minutes. Although, you will then need to wait a few months to enjoy your finished product.
When I discovered how to make homemade vanilla extract, I combined the vodka and vanilla beans in a bottle and left it for 5 months (shaking every so often). After 5 months, I felt like the vanilla extract still had a potent alcohol taste and wasn't exactly what I was looking for. So, I left it for a little while longer, and the flavor turned out amazing!
To answer 'how long does it take to make vanilla extract,' I would say 8 months is the sweet spot for a rich, fragrant, and delicious result.
Points to Consider When Making Vanilla Extract
- Darkness helps: Store your bottle of extract in a cool, dry, and dark place.
- Shaking is key: Make sure to give your extract a good shake every so often.
- It's worth the wait: Waiting 8 months will bring out the best flavor.
- Vodka quality is unimportant: Save your cash and buy a cheap bottle.
- Try different beans: Experiment with different types of vanilla beans to see what works best for you.
- Different spirits give additional flavor: Consider using bourbon, brandy, or rum to give your extract a tasty twist.
Ingredients For Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Vanilla beans
- Vodka
For the exact amounts needed, please see the recipe card below.
How To Make Vanilla Extract
- Slice vanilla beans open by running a sharp knife down the length of the bean.
- Place 4 beans in 1-8 ounce bottles with a tight sealing lid.
- Pour in 8 ounces of vodka, or enough to mostly cover the vanilla beans.
- Repeat with second bottle.
- Store in a dark place and shake every few days.
- Let sit at minimum 8 months before using.
Other Extracts to Try Making
Vanilla is not the only way to elevate your baking! You can make several extracts in the same way as vanilla extract. Mint and lemon are two extracts I make and use all the time.
For lemon or mint extract, you will need 1 cup of lemon zest or 1 cup of fresh mint (not spearmint) and 8 oz of vodka. Place either the lemon zest or mint leaves in a jar with the vodka, give it a good shake, and store in the same dark place for 5-8 months. You will then have homemade lemon or mint extract at your disposal!
Vanilla Extract FAQ
When your vanilla extract is ready to use, you will notice a lovely vanilla smell alongside the potent scent of alcohol. The extract should be darker in color, as shown in my photos. It's also common for some sediment to form on the bottom of the bottle/jar - this is completely normal.
Now you know how to make your own vanilla extract; you'll have a large container of the stuff! Homemade vanilla extract will last for years, so don't worry about it going bad.
As long as you store it in a dark and cool place, your extract should keep indefinitely. However, if you notice any changes to the color or smell of your extract, it is time to throw it away and make a fresh batch.
I do not recommend using dried vanilla beans when making extract. Look for vanilla that is labeled 'fresh' or similar and is soft to the touch. Dried beans will not release their flavor in the same way as fresh ones, so always use fresh beans for the best results.
We are all used to the dark hues of the vanilla extracts you find at the grocery store, and it can be hard to tell when your extract is ready, especially if it's not as dark. Don't worry, though; homemade vanilla extract can appear lighter than store-bought varieties and still taste just as good.
It is ready to use as long as it is fragrant and has a good vanilla flavor!
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How to Make Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
- 8 vanilla beans
- 16 ounces vodka (see note)
- 2 8 ounce bottles (or jars)
Instructions
- Slice vanilla beans open by running a sharp knife down the length of the bean.
- Place 4 beans in 1-8 ounce bottles with a tight sealing lid.
- Pour in 8 ounces of vodka, or enough to mostly cover the vanilla beans.
- Repeat with second bottle.
- Store in a dark place and shake every few days.
- Let sit at minimum 8 months before using.
Alli
Homemade extracts are so fun to make!