How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

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I first thought to make homemade vanilla a few years ago when I was needing teacher gifts for Christmas.  I wanted something unique and something I knew that would get used.  I have teachers ask me for it now because it’s such a great gift.  They can use it for months and months and it’s so good!

I remember baking when I was little and the smell of vanilla when my Grandma added it to her cookies.  Every time I smell it, it brings back so many memories.  Now my kids always ask for a smell when we are making cookies and they will have that memory forever too.

All you need is 2 ingredients: vanilla beans and vodka. I have so many people that as me how I make homemade vanilla extract so I thought I would just type it up!

Here are a few of my top baked goods that uses vanilla!

• Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies
• Yummy Applesauce Muffins
• The BEST egg free oatmeal cookies EVER
• Turtle Poke Cake

How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

I order my vanilla beans online.  There are many different kinds, but I usually just stick to ones from Madagascar.  I use 5 vanilla beans to 8 oz of vodka.  I’m sure many of you moms already have this in your cabinet and that’s fine to use. 🙂

First, you need to slice the vanilla bean open with a sharp knife.

Next, you need to scrape out the seeds from the inside.  It’s kind of sticky, but you can just run your knife along the bean and they come right out.

Once I’ve done all 5, I cut them in half.  The jar I use is short, so I do this so they will fit in.  If you have a taller one then you won’t have to do that.  Here’s a pack of cute containers I found that’s the perfect size.

Pour your vodka in and close the lid tight.  Put it in your cabinet and let sit for at least 6 weeks.  That’s it!  It’s really easy. I only make an 8 oz jar at a time because I don’t use that much and it will last me awhile.

I have 2 jars that I alternate.  When I’m using one, the other is sitting so I will never run out.  I leave the beans in and only take them out when it’s completely empty.  They will continue to add flavor.

Hint:  If you are going to use these for teacher gifts for Christmas,  start them right after Halloween and the vanilla will be ready to use when you give it to them at Christmas.  They’ll be able to make their Christmas goodies with it.