How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract

Making homemade vanilla extract is so easy and perfect to add to your cookies and cakes. You only need two ingredients to get started.

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I first thought to make homemade vanilla a few years ago when I needed teacher gifts for Christmas.  I wanted something unique AND something they would actually use.  Now, teachers are asking me for it because it’s such a great gift.  They can use it for months and months and it’s so much better than what you get at the grocery stores.

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 it when we’re making cookies and they’ll have that memory forever too.

How to make homemade vanilla

All you need is 2 ingredients: vanilla beans and vodka (80 proof). I have so many people ask how I make homemade vanilla extract so I thought I would just type it up!

I order my vanilla beans online.  There are many different kinds, but I usually just stick with Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans.  Tahitian vanilla beans are good too. I use 5 vanilla beans per cup of vodka (8 oz).  I’m sure many of you moms already have this in your cabinet and that’s fine to use. 🙂

Learn how to make vanilla extract.

First, you need to split the 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’ll 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.

If you don’t want to purchase any new containers, you can just add your split vanilla beans to the bottle of vodka.

Pour your vodka in and close the lid tight. Store in a cool, dark place, like the back of your cabinet or pantry, 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, but have two 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.

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

Make pure vanilla extract for gifts.

Vanilla is a GREAT and inexpensive holiday gift for teachers and neighbors. You’ll want to do a large batch and then pour into smaller bottles.

Make sure to start your vanilla right after Halloween and it will be ready to use when you give it to them at Christmas.  They’ll be able to make their Christmas baked goods with it.