Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
I have heard about people making their own vanilla extract at home for quite some time. However, I never thought it was something I needed to make since there are excellent pure vanilla extracts on the market. But when I found myself blowing through a $16 8-ounce bottle of vanilla extract in one frenetic baking week, so I changed my mind. I was a little skeptical about how good homemade vanilla extract could be compared to commercial brands, but even so, I decided to give it a try. That was a few years ago, and I haven’t looked back since. After I fell in love with Homemade Vanilla Extract, I bought a big bag of vanilla beans, some cute bottles, and alcohol. As for alcohol, I like to use Vodka since it’s the one that has the most neutral flavor, but the extract also can be made with bourbon, brandy, or rum. Actually, I made one with bourbon to use only in recipes I want to add that special and unique flavor. Let’s get started!!!
Why You Should Make Your Own Vanilla Extract
It’s very cost-efficientYou can control the strength of its flavorNo artificial or synthetic ingredients Perfect edible gift on a budget
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Step By Step Recipe Photo Tutorial
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
If the bottles are for gifting and have been less than 6 months infusing, I recommend gifting them with the beans in the bottle because there are still lots of flavors there! As you begin to use your vanilla extract, you can refill with a little vodka each time. After a year of using and refilling, remove old beans, add fresh beans, shake, and continue to use/refill. I bought 1 bottle of Vodka (1.75 l)= $18 6 glass bottles = $18 (my bottles are from World Market and Home Goods). These bottles from Walmart will work too. Cost = $11.50 per each bottle (8 oz). To make an 8oz bottle, you’ll need 6 oz (178 ml) vegetable glycerin + 2 oz (60 ml) water.
Free Printable Tag for Homemade Vanilla Extract Bottle
To make them even more special, I created a beautiful printable tag that you can download by clicking the link below. I used some colorful flax cords to tie them to the bottle, and voila… the perfect edible present!
Free Printable
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Recipe Card 📖
You’ve asked, and I’ve answered! Read on for a handful of answers to the most frequently asked questions about eggless baking. Originally posted in December 2015, the post content was edited to add more helpful information, no change to the recipe in October 2022.
