How to Make Vanilla Extract
Learn how to make vanilla extract at home. It will save you money long-temr, and it makes for a thoughtful gift, too.
Vanilla extract is a must-have ingredient for home bakers, but it’s far from cheap! The good news is, it’s incredibly easy to make!
It requires some investment, sure. But trust me when I say, it’s the most satisfying feeling when you have a year’s supply of vanilla extract in exchange for 5 minutes of effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade vanilla extract will be significantly higher in quality than the store-bought stuff because you have control over the ingredients.
- Get more value for your money! Although quality ingredients are not cheap, the investment is worth it. You can make a larger batch with individual bottles costing less than the ones you’ll find at the store.
- From cookies and pastries to smoothies and pudding, vanilla extract is a great way to add dimension to your desserts.
- Although it’s rare, some commercial vanilla extract are not entirely vegan. By making this homemade version, you can rest assured that your vanilla extract is fully plant-based.
- The intire recipe requires only three ingredients: vanilla bean pods, vodka, and patience.
Hack It!
- It’s up to you whether you want to remove the beans before using the extract.
- Vanilla extract can be infused in larger quantities if you are likely to use it regularly. Otherwise, keep it sealed in smaller jars.
- This homemade version makes a thoughtful gift – made with love and quality ingredients!
- Use it to add vanilla flavor to desserts, smoothies, oatmeal and more!
- You can use a different spirit for infusion, such as whiskey, brandy, or even tequila.
How to Make Vanilla Extract
Step 1: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each vanilla bean in half. Then, split the beans cutting them in half lengthways.
Step 2: Place 3 vanilla beans per jar (six halves), and submerge them in vodka. Seal the jars and allow the contents to ferment for anywhere between two and twelve months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Higher quality stuff is better if you can afford it! I recommend 80-proof vodka.
Actually, you can! Vodka provides the most pure vanilla flavor, but you can also use whiskey, brandy, or rum, for instance.
This vanilla extract won’t spoil. However, you have to keep it sealed when not in use to preserve the flavor and alcohol content.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
- Homemade Protein Powder
- Homemade Orange Peel Powder
- Homemade Beetroot Powder
- Vegan Homemade Nutella
If you enjoyed this recipe, I have many more delicious vegan recipes in my cookbook! The PlantYou Cookbook has over 140 exclusive recipes for every occasion and every taste. If you’re a visual learner like me, you’ll also love the infographics that accompany every single recipe! This book is a great investment, and a perfect gift in time for Christmas!
The Recipe: How to Make Vanilla Extract
Ingredients
- 12 vanilla beans
- 16 oz 80-proof vodka
Equipment
- 4 sealable jars 4 oz each
Instructions
- Carefully slice each vanilla bean in half, then split the beans cutting them halfway down the stem. Place the 6 halves in each jar (totalling 3 vanilla beans per), and pour vodka over top using a funnel.
- Seal, and allow to ferment for at least 2 months. This can be fermented for up to one year.
Are you sure? Vanilla Extract with Vodka??? 🤯
Yes – that is how all vanilla extract is made