Homemade Vanilla Extract
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.
Servings: 6 4-oz bottles
Calories: 74kcal
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.
Nutrition
Serving: 1oz. | Calories: 74kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.4g | Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 0.3mg | Potassium: 0.3mg | Iron: 0.003mg