How to make homemade vanilla extract with just 2 ingredients: vanilla beans and vodka! The vanilla is ready after brewing as little as 12 weeks but optimal flavor at 6 to 9 months. Use in all your recipes calling for vanilla.
You will be surprised at how easy it is to make homemade vanilla extract. With only two ingredients, you can have the best tasting vanilla for your baking recipes! Or, plan to gift them in smaller bottles as a thoughtful homemade gift.
It's September, which means it's time to start brewing your own vanilla extract so they will be ready to gift in Christmas baskets! Actually, you can start any time of the year because it never expires. I'm starting to make mine very soon for teacher Christmas gifts this year!
Why Homemade Vanilla Extract
This vanilla extract recipe is so easy to make and the total time to put together is less than running to the grocery store! We like to make batches of vanilla extract to gift during the holiday season. It smells SO good and tastes amazing in your cookies, muffins, brownies, cakes, anything that calls for vanilla extract!
Lastly, the cost to make vanilla homemade is less than a store-bought jar. And it feels so gourmet!
Ingredients in Vanilla Extract
Store-bought pure vanilla extract is expensive, but you can cut your costs by making it at home. It takes just minutes of your time and it tastes better than store-bought vanilla extracts!
Here's what you need:
- Vanilla beans (see below for links to where I buy them)
- 80 proof vodka (or bourbon to make bourbon vanilla)
How to Make Vanilla Extract
- First, pour out two shots of vodka from the bottle and reserve for another use. This will allow room for the beans.
- Next, use a sharp knife to cut a slice in each vanilla pod in half vertically, leaving both sides attached. Drop split vanilla beans into the bottle of alcohol.
- Replace the lid and let the beans steep in the alcohol for at least 12 weeks before use. Shake each time before using.
Christmas Gifts
If you plan to give the vanilla extract away as gifts, I suggest using 4-ounce dark glass bottles, such as these Amber Boston Round Glass bottles. It's best to use dark glass containers like this to preserve the brewing process.
Free Vanilla Extract Labels
I created free labels on my computer and printed them out on sticker paper. If you're not able to design your own personalized labels, click the label icon below for a free printable I created just for you! Or, I found a couple of cute pre-made sticker labels on Amazon here and here.
(Click image above for free printable)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best vodka to make vanilla extract?
We use 80 proof vodka, but you can also use bourbon, rum or brandy. Don't spend a ton of money since it's the vanilla flavor you want to shine through. Also do not use flavored types.
What kind of vanilla beans are best?
The first time I made this years ago, I used grade A vanilla beans, but that was totally unnecessary. Grade B beans are perfectly fine for making extract, and are much cheaper. We use Tahitian vanilla beans. This is a good article for learning the difference between grade A and grade b vanilla beans.
What if my vanilla extract isn't done in time for Christmas?
If your vanilla won't be ready by Christmas, just place a "ready by" date on the bottle to inform your recipients when the vanilla is ready for use. Even if your friends can't use it right away, they'll appreciate the gift and be excited to use it later. I've included a space for you to write this date on my free printable labels.
Helpful Tips
- Amazon is my favorite place to buy vanilla beans.
- Don't toss out used vanilla beans! Continue to add used vanilla bean pods from other recipes into the brewing extract instead of tossing them out.
- If using the vodka bottle to brew your vanilla extract, take out 2 shots worth before adding the bean pods so the vodka doesn't overflow.
- Use a small funnel to help pour the vodka into individual bottles.
- Store brewing batch in a cool dark place for best results.
- Homemade vanilla can be used after brewing for as little as 12 weeks, but it gets better the longer it brews. Optimally, it's best to wait 6 to 9 months for best flavor.
Recipes That Use Vanilla Extract
Use your homemade vanilla extract in any recipes that call for vanilla, including these favorites:
- Fruit Salad with Vanilla Dressing
- Banana Muffins
- Chocolate Brownies
- Peanut Butter Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Made this recipe?
Leave a star rating and tag me on social media @seededtable so I can see. I love hearing from you!
This article was originally published December 2011 and updated September 2023 with new recipe tips, more vanilla beans per vodka ratio recommended and updated product links.
Recipe Card
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
- 750 ml 80 proof bottle vodka
- 1.5 oz vanilla bean pods (about 18 vanilla beans)
Instructions
If brewing for home use:
- Pour out 2 shots worth of vodka and store for another use. Slice each vanilla pod in half vertically, leaving one side attached at the end. Drop vanilla pods in the vodka bottle and replace lid.
- Let steep in a cool area in your pantry for at least 12 weeks, but optimally 6 to 9 months for best flavor. Shake every couple of weeks. Never expires.
If brewing for 4-ounce bottled gifts:
- Slice each vanilla pod in half vertically and horizontally. Place 3 pods (12 sliced segments) in each 4-ounce bottle. Fill each bottle with vodka and replace lid tightly.
- Let steep for at least 12 weeks. If giving away as gifts before the 12 weeks is up, include a tag with the bottle that states the "Ready by" date. Never expires. For best flavor, allow to steep 6 to 9 months before first use.
Notes
- Use a moderately valued vodka, not the most expensive but not the cheapest. Skyy and Members Mark are good brands to use here.
- You may use bourbon in place of vodka.
- Amazon is my favorite place to buy vanilla beans.
- If using the vodka bottle to brew your vanilla extract, take out 2 shots worth before adding the bean pods so the vodka doesn't overflow.
- Use a small funnel to help pour the vodka into individual bottles.
- Store brewing batch in a cool dark place for best results.
- Extract is ready to use after 12 weeks, but the longer it brews the better the flavor. Waiting 6 to 9 months is even better.
- Nutrition information is an estimate only.
Shanna Dunn says
Hi! I just stumbled upon your blog. Do you happen to have the labels for the Christmas ones in the pictures? I absolutely love them!
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Shanna! I'm sorry, I do not have the Merry Christmas ones anymore.
debby says
I am going to start this now for next years gift and have been searching on line for bottles. Some reviews talk about difficulty with swing top being difficult to open or seal may not be great. Should i stick with a screw top??
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Debby, I'm not sure what a swing top is? The bottles I use have a screw top. 🙂
debby says
ok, one more question. When I fill the small bottles with vodka am I filling all the way or leave a little room for air?
And do the pods sink or float? I read that if exposed to the air it the pods can go bad.
TIA, I just want everything to go right as I am making gifts
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Debby! I fill them all the way to the top. 🙂
Debra Liberio says
me again, I started my jars in January and when i take the lids off i still get a whiff of alcohol. Did I do something wrong??
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Debra,
The smell of alcohol is perfectly normal and will not go away. 🙂 You did nothing wrong! If you want to test it, pour some into a glass of milk and enjoy your vanilla flavored drink. 😉
Courtney says
Hi! So I was wondering if you make this in the large 1.75l vodka bottle, do you just double the amount of beans? So 18 beans? how many times do you reuse your beans? Thank you
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Courtney, great question! Yes, I would go ahead and double the amount of beans. The more beans, the better. It's hard to answer how many times I reuse beans, because I haven't really kept count. I'll pull some from the bottle and then add fresh ones every once in a while. I'm pretty lax'd with it!
BrandonCakes says
I know it's like 6 years after this post, but I thought I might add some tips. I've been making my own vanilla extract for about 12 years, and It just keeps getting better and better. TIP 1: Don't go looking for high quality vodka, it doesn't make for "better" vanilla. TIP 2: Purchase "Extract-Grade" beans, aka Grade B beans. Don't use Grade A vanilla beans!! The trick is to save money making your own vanilla extract, not go broke! Grade A beans are what you would use in your baked goods/cooking for quality vanilla flavor. Extract beans are cheaper because they are a little smaller and drier, but still contain all the great vanilla flavor. Madagascar Bourbon beans will give the deepest vanilla flavor. Tahitian and Indian is a bit floral/chocolate tasting, Mexican has a smokey flavor, Tongan is fruity like raisins almost, and Indonesian is like a mild Madagascar Bourbon. TIP 3: Use more beans for quicker/better flavor. Just so you know, my ratio of beans to vodka is outrageous! I buy HUGE bottles vodka from Sam's Club or Costco, pour out half, and fill it with about 30-40 beans. TIP 4: Think of something else to give away for Christmas this year, haha....your vanilla will be the BEST tasting vanilla next year! I allow my extract to cure for at LEAST one year before using it. The flavor develops with time. My current open bottle is 3 years old(I start a new bottle every year), and is almost as dark as the vanilla beans, and has a deep vanilla(almost caramel) flavor. It is the best vanilla extract I have ever tasted! Watch out Nielsen-Massey!
Cathy says
Do you remove the beans at the point of 12 weeks?
Nikki Gladd says
No, I don't. I just let them continue to steep.
Jaxkie says
I started brewing a batch of vanilla back in
November it is February now and my batch
does not have a lot of color to it. I used 3 cups
of vodka and 10 beans. I shook it every couple
of weeks. I stored it in the bottom of my closet
where is is dark. Is this normal? What should
I do?
Thanks,
Jackie
Amy says
I read on another blog that once the beans are no longer covered in the jar (from using the extract) that the beans should be removed from the jar. Is that your experience as well? My bottles have a small opening, similar to yours pictured here. How do you recommend removing them?
Jessy says
Made it last Christmas and it was hit!! Used Infinity Jars for storage and it became an exclusive gift.
They are absolutely great for these vanilla extract for a long period of time and easy top-up.
Cathy Daugherty says
My beans have been in vodka in a qt jar for about a month. I didn't think I had enough vanilla beans, so I bought more. My question: Did this hurt anything, me opening the jar and letting the air to it?
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Cathy,
No, you can continuously open it and add beans. 🙂
Alyssa says
After the vanilla is done brewing do you take the beans out? Does it matter if you do or not? Thanks in advance!
Nikki Gladd says
You can leave them in or take them out, doesn't matter! 🙂
Beth Tappen says
I have been brewing a batch since mid July, about 5 months. I am getting ready to bottle it for Christmas gifts and it also has an overpowering vodka smell. I noticed that the store bought stuff, though saying it is pure vanilla extract, also contains sugar. Ever added any sugar or sugar syrup to the mix? How much? Have any of you used this for baking in place of your usual store bought with good results?
Thanks!
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Beth,
I never add anything else and use it all of the time in baking. 🙂
cory says
I started making vanilla in February. I used a bottle of makers mark and a bottle of absolute. I put quite a few vanilla beans in each bottle, but it is close to Christmas and neither seems ready. Freakingout!
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Cory,
Have you been shaking the bottle every few weeks? Did you cut the vanilla pods to expose the beans? I bet it's ready since it's been brewing that long. It's sometimes just hard to tell. Give it a try in a recipe and see what happens! 🙂
Bekah says
So, I want to try this! However, my bottles I have are 16oz. How much Vodka and how many beans do need to use?
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Bekah,
For the 16 ounce bottle, I would use 6 vanilla beans and then fill with the vodka. (It will use about 2/3rds of the bottle of vodka called for in the recipe.)
Jonie Anderson says
I started my vanilla in February and just made 6 - 4 oz bottles. They are amazing! I used Stolichnaya brand vodka and it was perfect. I wanted to know if I can reuse the beans to make another batch or should I toss them and start over. Thank you so much for posting. I can't wait to give these away for Christmas.
Nikki Gladd says
So glad to hear it Jonie! You can reuse the beans, but they will become less potent with each use so you will need to add at a couple of fresh ones, too. 🙂
Deda Flora says
What brand of Vodka is best to use?
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Deda, I don't think there is specifically a best brand, but I usually use not the cheapest, yet not the most expensive. I know I've used Skyy, but can't remember other brands off hand. As long as it's not a flavored vodka, and not the absolute cheapest, you should be fine. 🙂
Candy Kentner says
When using the vanilla extract in a recipe do you use
The full amount it calls for? Or do you use half since
It's pure?
Nikki Gladd says
Hi Candy,
I use the full amount (and sometimes just a tad bit more). The same when using any pure vanilla extract and not just homemade. 🙂
Bridget says
Hi, I have been wanting to make vanilla for some time now. I recently purchased some beans but now that I have read your blog and some others, I'm wondering and wanting to know do you have to let it set for 8 to 12 weeks? Can it be months? We're in Feb now...the longer the better? Or is this not true? Great blog and site btw.
Nikki says
Hi Bridget. The longer the better, for sure! 🙂 (And, thanks for the kind words!)
Harry Whetchis says
just opened my experiment a couple of days ago to see if it was ready for gifting. I have Tahitian and a Madagascar beans in cheap vodka.. The vodka smell was overpowering.. It then occured to me that the initial mix was beans, booze and a capped bottle with no air space.. (wasn't sure if there would be any negatives from the air) Turns out.. I poured the liquid into glass bowls to let the volitile esters escape (insert joke about guard beining mysteriously drunk) The smell was significantly reduced while air in the room seemed saturated with the smell. I still have several panic days til Christmas.. hope this works
Tammy says
I made this vanilla extract last year . I loved it! so did my friends. I just ordered my vanilla beans and jars to make again this year. Thank you for sharing!
Nikki says
That's great, Tammy! Thanks for reminding me that I need to get on this now for this year! 🙂
Joe says
Thank you for this post. I found that is super easy to do. Also, I really need to do make this, maybe as a gift for my family and my friends. Every
cook man will love this 🙂
Norma Whitmire says
This is a question: Can the plastic bottles that the vodka can in be used for the packaging. ? I just put the split and scraped bean in in original bottle. Is this ok.? If not I have wasted a half gallon bottle of vanilla
Nikki says
Yes, that's okay. 🙂
Stacey says
Hi! I am getting ready to make some homemade vanilla extract in a few weeks but I'm wondering if you know how long the extract lasts? Would it last longer if I removed the pods after the steeping time frame?
Thanks!
Nikki says
Hi Stacey,
As far as I know, it lasts indefinitely. Or, at least long enough for me to think that! 🙂 You want to keep the pods there, as well.
ashley says
hi, im sory for all the questions. I just made this vanilla extract and was about to print out your label template, i don't have any program on my laptop to be able to open this and make the labels larger and insert our names int eh from my kitchen to yours line.....how did you do it or is there any way you could send me some label template to my email that are about twice the length? i am so sorry i am so hoping you can help! i have to get these out next week for my christmas gift baskets ahh
Nikki says
Hi Ashley,
The labels are in PDF format, so they can't be adjusted. They were made for 4oz bottles. Are you using larger bottles?
ashley says
they are 4 oz bottles but allot taller and thinner.
Jen Henson says
I just made 10 bottles. I am going to put a "don't use until" date on them. I'm so excited to give these out (and keep one for myself) 🙂
Jody says
Did you strain it at all? I cut the beans down the middle and there is a lot of stuff floating in the bottle!
Nikki says
No, I don't strain it, but you can. The "stuff" floating in the bottle is actually the vanilla beans that are found inside the pods. 🙂 They leave beautiful vanilla specks in your food, but you can strain them if you don't want them. 🙂
Lauren @ New Fashioned Housewife says
This is awesome! I found you while looking around for ideas for Christmas gift baskets. I'm definitely going to do have this vanilla in for this year. Also, your other posts ABOUT gift baskets will be helpful too 🙂 Just wanted to say thanks. I'll probably blog about my experiences making this, so if you keep track of link-backs, be on the lookout!
marie says
Is it possible to use clear plastic spice bottles. I have kept several and would like to use them.
Nikki says
Hi Marie,
You can use them, but I wouldn't recommend it for long storage so to avoid the "off" taste that can leach from the plastic.
marie says
Thanks for your quick response. That is what I had concluded as well, but thought I bet ask first just in case someone had tried it before. Thanks again. Marie
leslie says
Can you use vanilla flavored vodka?
Nikki says
Hi Leslie. No, I wouldn't use it. A friend accidentally used vanilla flavored and it didn't turn out well.
Vicky Horton says
Love the idea of making homemade vanilla. Question where do you get the vanilla beans to make it. I want to try it but not sure wher you get the beans.
Nikki says
Hi Vicky. I have a link above to Amazon where I buy my beans. 🙂 It's the first bullet point under "A few notes about homemade vanilla extract" located just above the recipe.
Vicky Horton says
Thank You will have to check it out
Angie says
I just realized I bought 80 proof not 100 proof vodka does it matter?
Nikki says
Hi Angie. I don't think it matters. 🙂
Sandra B says
Could you make this in the big bottle and then pour it into smaller bottles to give away, rather than brewing it in the individual bottles?
Nikki says
Hi Sandra. Yes, you can. 🙂
Korin says
Hi - I have a quick question for you! I am going to "attempt" this but wasn't sure about the "quality" of the vodka you should buy? (ie. does a cheap vodka work just as well?) THANKS!
Nikki says
The quality doesn't matter too much. An inexpensive one is fine.
Lisa J says
This is my first time making homemade vanilla. We used bourbon because I read on other recipes it was okay to use vodka, rum or bourbon. Only problem is we are nearing the 3 month mark at the end of January and it still smells strongly of vodka. Is this normal with the homemade stuff? I just hate the idea of going to use it in something and not getting the vanilla flavor. I split the beans and used the right amount of beans per amount of vodka, shaking it often. We did have it down in the basement on the shelf with all our canned goods. Pretty cool down there and most definitely dark. Hubby thought maybe it was too cold so it's now up in the kitchen cabinet above the sink. Just not sure what our final product should smell like and hubby tried it a few weeks ago straight from the bottle and said it tastes only like vodka. I can only smell a teeny tiny hint of the vanilla beans. I bought them from mountainroseherbs.com and have used several of the others in other cooking and have been impressed with them. Just not sure what is up with the vanilla and I really had hoped to be able to use it at the 8 week mark but was afraid to!
Nikki says
Hi Lisa, My homemade vanilla extract does smell like a mixture of vanilla and vodka (strong vodka smell) and so does the stuff I bought online that I'm still using up. Also, testing the vanilla straight from the bottle by itself is not a great way to go, as the vodka will overpower the vanilla. Instead, pour a little into a glass of milk and see if the flavor develops. Hope this helps!
(And, yes, you can use bourbon and rum...so that shouldn't be the issue.) 😉
Audrey M. says
Thanks for this Q and A. I was going to ask the same question. I gave bottles as gifts without trying the recipe first, and the bottle I kept for myself smells strongly of vodka to my pregnant nose. I was worried since I gave it out to my family - lots of teetotalers. 🙂 The tip for testing in milk was very helpful and I liked tasting my vanilla flavored milk!
Christine says
I started my homemade vanilla mid October using rum. I finally decided to try it and was so worried about the strong smell and flavor. I'm going to try the milk test now but if it isn't quite ready what can you suggest?
Nikki says
Hi Christine,
I usually allow mine to steep for at least 12 weeks, so yours might not be ready yet if you started mid-October. It may need a couple more weeks. When I gift them, I write on the label (linked above) the "ready by" date. 🙂
Christine says
Thank you so much for the reply! I was so worried that my vanilla was ruined and I had wasted alot of money. I will be putting do not use until on them and Christmas will be saved!
Denise says
Which Avery labels should I buy to print!?! Thank you!!!
Nikki says
Hi Denise, I linked within the post to the sticker paper I bought from Amazon. I haven't used Avery sticker paper, but I'm pretty sure they have a similar option.
Jessica of My Baking Heart says
Awesome gift, Nikki! 🙂
Rachel says
I love those labels!! How sweet of you to share them. 🙂
Jamie says
I am making this too and am going to blog it next week! I will be sure to link to your blog too! Bloggers unite!
<3 Pinterest!
Nikki says
haha! Thanks, Jamie!
Krystal @ {Mrs. Regueiro's Plate} says
I love these bottles, and how cheap they are!!!! I'm saving these for my next giveaway party favors.
Angie says
So neat! Love it!
Michelle says
This is such a great idea, especially with those lovely bottles! I want to make this but I'm afraid I'll be greedy and keep all the lovely vanilla to myself!
Amy's Cooking Adventures says
I love the instructions for brewing the extract individually! Great idea!
Erin says
I did homemade vanilla last year! Such a great gift. I love your labels!
Nikki says
Thanks, Erin! Glad you like them!
Julie @ Table for Two says
I LOVE this idea. I definitely want to do this for christmas gifts. Every baker will love this homemade gift 🙂
Stephanie says
So easy!! I love the labels and the idea of the "do not use until" date!
Sarah says
I never realized it was so easy to make vanilla extract!
Anne says
I asked for vanilla beans for Christmas just so I could start making my own extract. I love the bottles and labels you used!
Nikki says
What a great idea to ask for vanilla beans for Christmas! Now...why didn't I think of that??