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Easy Homemade Vanilla Extract

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You only need 2 ingredients for easy homemade vanilla extract: vanilla beans and vodka. This will amplify your baked goods!

homemade vanilla extract in a glass bottle
Easy Homemade 2 Ingredient Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is an absolute staple in baked goods that elevates even the simplest of recipes like banana muffins, brownies, and ice cream. Homemade vanilla extract is perfect in your own baked goods and makes a perfect gift for any baker in your life.

Wait 6-12 Months!

The ratio of vanilla beans per ounces of alcohol is imperative, but so is the amount of time the vanilla infuses the alcohol. Homemade vanilla extract tastes better and becomes darker in color the longer it sits. This means we need to practice our patience. The wait is worth it, though. Make some today and use it 6 months from now. You’ll be even happier when a full year has past. 12+ month homemade vanilla is amazing! Trust me, you will notice a difference in your baking.

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INGREDIENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE VANILLA EXTRACT

  • 1/2 ounce vanilla beans (about 5-10 vanilla beans)
  • 1 cup 80 proof vodka

close up overhead photo of vanilla beans
Easy Homemade 2 Ingredient Vanilla Extract

Instructions To Make Vanilla Extract

  1. Carefully, using a sharp knife, slit the vanilla beans so the beans are exposed. No need to completely split the bean in half, just slit down the middle. If the length of the vanilla beans don’t fit into your bottle, cut the vanilla beans into smaller pieces. Place beans into bottle.
  2. Using a funnel, pour your vodka on top of vanilla beans. Use a little extra vodka, if needed, so the beans are fully submerged. Shake a few times.
  3. Store vanilla at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Shake about once per week or once every couple weeks. Vanilla can be ready to use in as little as 8 weeks, but I highly recommend waiting at least 6 months for optimal flavor. 12 months is even better!
  4. As you begin to use your vanilla, you can refill with a little vodka each time. Give it a shake after you refill and give it a shake before each use, too. If you’re gifting the vanilla or if you don’t have any more alcohol to refill, remove the beans completely after first use. The beans will become a little slimy if they aren’t almost fully submerged.
brand new clear bottle of vanilla extract
Easy Homemade 2 Ingredient Vanilla Extract

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Easy Homemade Vanilla Extract

Samantha
You only need 2 ingredients for easy homemade vanilla extract: vanilla beans and vodka. This will amplify your baked goods!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 5 mins
Total Time 5 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 48 tsp
Calories 12 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 oz vanilla beans
  • 1 cup 80 proof vodka

Instructions
 

  • Carefully, using a sharp knife, slit the vanilla beans so the beans are exposed. No need to completely split the bean in half, just slit down the middle. If the length of the vanilla beans don’t fit into your bottle, cut the vanilla beans into smaller pieces. Place beans into bottle.
  • Using a funnel, pour your vodka on top of vanilla beans. Use a little extra vodka, if needed, so the beans are fully submerged. Shake a few times.
  • Store vanilla at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Shake about once per week or once every couple weeks. Vanilla can be ready to use in as little as 8 weeks, but I highly recommend waiting at least 6 months for optimal flavor. 12 months is even better!
  • As you begin to use your vanilla, you can refill with a little vodka each time. Give it a shake after you refill and give it a shake before each use, too. If you’re gifting the vanilla or if you don’t have any more alcohol to refill, remove the beans completely after first use. The beans will become a little slimy if they aren’t almost fully submerged.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tspCalories: 12kcalCarbohydrates: 0.5g
Keyword homemade vanilla extract
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Frequently Asked Questions About

Why Make Homemade Vanilla Extract?

With the price of vanilla constantly fluctuating, it’s very cost efficient to make your own. Plus, you can control the strength of its flavor. This is KEY because many pricey store-bought options lack the essential depth of flavor that makes good vanilla… good vanilla.

What kind of vanilla beans do I need?

Vanilla beans labeled “Grade B” are specifically sold for extracting purposes, but I’ve made vanilla with Grade A beans and it tastes great. Use either.

I waited 6+ months and my vanilla still smells like vodka, what went wrong?

You need MORE vanilla beans! Your ready to use vanilla extract should smell like just that, vanilla. So, if it smells more like vodka then vanilla you need more beans.

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By on August 27th, 2022

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