Homemade vanilla extract is probably the most-used ingredient in my kitchen after flour and sugar. It is also my go-to DIY holiday gift. It is perfect for all the bakers on your list and makes a quick and simple host/ess gift for when you’re invited to a party and want to bring something fun, unexpected, and practical.
I always have a stack of beans in the freezer and bottles of vanilla extract in my pantry. I admit I don’t always make my own, but it is something, like homemade yogurt, that once you make it, you’re ruined to the store-bought version. *I do have a hack below for a SUPER QUICK way to get more flavor out of the store-bought bottle!
It is easy to make but to get the best result you have to be patient. The longer you let the vanilla beans sit in the vodka, the better and stronger the flavor. I let this bottle sit for 5+ weeks before opening it (I used a LOT of beans, so it matured faster, if you use less, it can take up to 12 weeks to have enough flavor), which was a test of willpower I didn’t know I possessed. The result is like perfume, I add this homemade vanilla extract to all of my recipes and dab a bit behind my ears (not really, but maybe I should). I do use it in everything from cakes to cocktails.
What You Need for Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Glass Bottle with stopper or cap
(the one I used had juice in it and I cleaned it and then sterilized it) – the size doesn’t matter, you can make a large or small amount.
- Vodka – You need enough to cover the beans in the bottle you choose. There is no need to break the bank with the vodka you use, I go for the cheap stuff since it’s just meant to carry the flavor of the vanilla. You can also use rum or other neutral-flavored alcohol.
- Vanilla Beans (click here to see which ones I use)
– The amount will depend on the size of the jar you make, but you want to use a bunch to get the best flavor. I used about 18 beans in 750ml of vodka. The beans can be expensive, so you can also keep the pods after you have scraped out the seeds for another recipe. This will take longer, because you aren’t adding the flavorful pulp, but it is a great way to use the pods. I add one to the bottle every time I have another pod. (Don’t use them if they have been used in a recipe already, like custard) – Here is more information on vanilla beans
Alcohol-Free Vanilla Paste – The base for a non-alcohol vanilla paste is Vegetable Food Grade Glycerin. This is a thick paste and you will use less per recipe because it is a higher concentration of vanilla. It is perfect for people who don’t want the addition of alcohol. Here is a helpful post about how to make this version.
How to Make Vanilla Extract
See the end of this post for the full recipe.
Clean your bottle and dry it well.
If you are using whole vanilla beans, scrape out the pulp of a bunch of beans. (there are versions that leave the beans uncut, but then you don’t have the power of flavor released by the oils and seeds)
Put the pod and scraped pulp into the bottle. (Scraping out the pulp first will help it flavor the alcohol quicker.)
Once you have all the beans scraped and added to the bottle…
Pour the vodka into the bottle. You can use a Funnel to make sure you don’t spill. I didn’t have one that was small enough, so I used a large round pastry tip.
Close the stopper on the bottle and shake the vanilla and vodka to distribute the seeds.
The vodka will still be clear for the first few days. Once every couple of days give the extract a good shake to break up the pulp and get the seeds distributed in the vodka.
After a week the extract will start to get darker and develop some flavor. After a few weeks, you can use the extract, but the flavor will be very subtle and have a strong alcohol taste.
At week 3 the color should be amber and the aroma is richer, but waiting for weeks 8 to 12 is when it gets really exciting. Use it in any recipe that calls for vanilla extract. If you are using it in buttercream, you may want to strain out any of the pulp. You will still have the seeds in your recipe, but any of the stringy bits from the pod will get strained out.
Refilling the Bottle: The extract can be kept indefinitely and over the months/years it just keeps getting better. You will need to add more beans and refill with more vodka to replenish the bottle as you use it. I add more vanilla beans and vodka as the bottle gets to 2/3 full. If you let it get much lower then you’ll dilute all the beautiful flavor you’ve developed!
*Store-bought vanilla extract HACK: A super easy way to get a more intense flavor from your favorite bottle of store-bought “pure” vanilla extract* is to add a split and scraped vanilla bean to it. That will give your recipe a boost of flavor from the seeds. It won’t be quite as intense a flavor as the bottle chock full of beans, but it is a great way to start!
*avoid imitation/artificial flavor vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where do you get your vanilla beans? Here is more about the beans I use and where I source them.
- Where is your vanilla bottle from? I have several bottles of vanilla going at all times, but they’re all different. I clean and reuse my husband’s Bulleit Whiskey bottles. I don’t use the whiskey to make the vanilla because it competes with the vanilla flavor, I just like the bottle. I also have one from a bottle of juice I bought at Whole Foods and IKEA often has bottles with stoppers.
- What is bourbon vanilla? When you see vanilla extract that’s labeled “bourbon vanilla” it refers to the type of Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans and has nothing to do with the alcohol of the same name. So, Bourbon Vanilla is NOT made with bourbon. If you choose to use a strong flavored alcohol, just keep in mind that it will be adding that flavor to all your recipes as well. More about other vanilla varieties here.
- How do I refill my vanilla as I use it up? Feel like it won’t be as vanilla-y. You need to add more Vodka AND more vanilla beans to keep the flavor in balance. See my process in the post above.
- Why isn’t my vanilla turning dark like yours? Time and the amount of vanilla beans will determine the color and potency of the vanilla. You need to let it steep for a couple of months, shaking it every so often to distribute the seeds. Make sure you have several beans per cup of vodka or it won’t have enough flavor.
- Do you ever remove the beans from the bottle? No! The beans in the bottle will never go bad because they are sitting in alcohol which will preserve them. If the bottle gets too full of beans over time and I can’t fit more in, then I start a new bottle.
- My vanilla tastes too alcohol-y! The extract is alcohol-based, so you will taste some alcohol, but the vanilla flavor should be strong. The alcohol burns off when baking, so you won’t taste that in your recipes.
- Can I switch from bourbon or rum in my homemade vanilla, to vodka? Yes, vodka has almost no flavor, which is why I prefer it to any other alcohol when making vanilla. It allows the vanilla to shine. It may take a while to replace all the bourbon, but eventually, it will happen. Keep adding vanilla beans too.
- Can I make non-alcoholic vanilla? Yes, see my process above. It isn’t an extract as much as a paste, but equally delicious.
Ingredients
- Glass Bottle with stopper or cap
- Vodka
- Vanilla Beans (the more the better)
Instructions
- Clean your bottle and dry it well.
- If you are using the whole vanilla beans, scrape out the pulp of a bunch of beans.
- Put the pod and scraped pulp into the bottle. (Scraping out the pulp first will help it flavor the alcohol quicker.)
- Pour the vodka into the bottle. You can use a funnel to make sure you don’t spill. I didn’t have one that was small enough, so I used a large round pastry tip.
- Close the stopper on the bottle and shake the vanilla and vodka to distribute the seeds. The vodka will still be clear for the first few days. Once every couple of days give the extract a good shake to break up the pulp and get the seeds distributed in the vodka. After a week the extract will start to get darker and develop some flavor. After two weeks you can use the extract, but the flavor will be very subtle.
- At week 3 the color should be amber and the aroma is richer, but waiting for week 5+ is when it gets really exciting. Use it in any recipe that calls for vanilla extract. If you are using it in buttercream, you may want to strain out any of the pulp. You will still have the seeds in your recipe, but any of the stringy bits from the pod will get strained out.
- Refilling the vanilla extract: As you use the vanilla, you can add more vodka and vanilla beans to refill it and keep it going for years. After I've scraped the seeds from a bean for a recipe, I just toss the bean into my bottle and shake it up. If your bottle gets to be half empty and you refill it with vodka, you will want to add a few more beans to make sure you're not diluting it too much.
Your photos are just terrific and I love those bottles! I made vanilla to give as gifts this holiday. Started it in October. I used those little individual wine bottles, made my own labels and wrapped the necks of the bottles in rafia. It’s a perfect hostess gift, too. I’ve read that it can take up to six months for it to reach it’s peak vanilla flavor.
Hi CherylK,
Yes, the longer you wait the better it gets! Hard to wait, but the reward is great!
Enjoy! Zoë
What vodka do you recommend, I’ve heard different things from people in regards to alcohol content does it matter?
Hi Amanda, there is no need to break the bank with the vodka you use, Zoë always goes for the cheap stuff since it is just meant to carry the flavor of the vanilla. Enjoy!
I just purchased Smirnoff vodka
I’m so excited for this to mature! I started mine on 3/22/22….smelled and tasted a bit today. Alcohol is still so prevalent.
Wondering about when the alcohol leaves.
Hi Aida! The alcohol doesn’t leave until it’s cooked. The vanilla flavor takes over after a few months, so you still have a while to go. Make sure you have enough beans in it, too! Enjoy!
This is so beautiful. Thanks for sharing Zoe! Happy New Year 🙂
Do you ever tried flavored vodka and if so which one. I was thinking a citrus or coconut flavored but was wondering if the vanilla flavor eventually overpowers the other flavors
Just ordered my beans from Amazon and found some cute bottles at IKEA so getting ready to make some for Christmas!!
Hi Kelley! Zoë prefers to use a flavorless vodka because then she can use the vanilla is the widest array of desserts. We’re excited to hear how your vanilla making goes!
Great post as always! My wife and I really enjoy your blog. For our vanilla extract we bought a large bottle (1.75L) of good vodka and put a bunch of beans directly into it by removing the little plastic cap. For easy use we pour off a small amount into a regular extract bottle. The rest just sits and gets better every day.
Do you make other extracts for your baking?
Hi Chris,
I have made other extracts, but I don’t do it often enough. That will be one of my goals this year!
Cheers, Zoë
I do a mix of vanilla beans and coffee beans and it quickly makes a wonderful rich flavoured batch of extract perfect for chocolate desserts.
Well, are you Miss Smartyboots using a decorating tube as a small funnel! I thought I was the only person who’s done that in a pinch. Happy new year, Zoë!
Err, that’d be “. . . aren’t you. . . .”
I brewed mine in Windsor Canadian. . . . I started it in August and gave it as Christmas gifts.
I make all my own vanilla extracts (Madagascar, Tahitian, and Mexican vanilla) too. So I came to pick up any extra tips. I always allow my extract to “brew” for about nine months with the vanilla beans inside the bottle. I shake the bottles daily for the first week, then weekly. Every Monday is shake the vanilla extract bottle day. I also cut my vanilla beans so that more surface area is exposed for the vodka to infuse. Like Chris I use the original glass vodka bottle and just pour out enough vodka to give the vanilla beans room to fit. When it’s finally done is when I pour the vanilla extract into one of the decorative stopper bottles. There’s just something about making your own vanilla to use in baking.
I also have a bottle of Jim Beam bourbon I infused the same way with vanilla beans. I use that vanilla infused bourbon every year to make holiday fruitcakes. The infused bourbon with vanilla flavor just takes it over the top.
Do you have a recipe for your vanilla?
Hi Jamillah, the recipe for Zoe’s homemade vanilla extract is in the blog post above. Please let me know if there are other questions I can help with!
Hello! If I were to give the vanilla as gifts and pour into small bottles … would I put the vanilla pods/beans that were inside the original bottle, inside these smaller bottles? Thanks in advance for your response!
Hi Tricia! If you’re giving tiny bottles that can’t fit a full bean, you can leave them out, but once the vanilla is gone they’ll need to start from scratch to make more. But if you’re plan is to have the recipients make more vanilla as theirs is used up, you’ll want to include a bean and let them know how to add their own beans and vodka as they use it up! For small bottles you can cut beans to fit. I hope this helps!
Where can I buy the vanilla beans and bottles
Hi Bonnie, a link to the vanilla beans is in the section of this post called “What you need.” The bottles she uses are leftover bottles, one is a juice bottle from Whole Foods and others that she uses are Bourbon bottles. She sterilizes them before using. You can also find a link to a glass bottle with stopper in the same section of the post. I hope this helps!
Oh my! I am just now seeing your comment/recipe. I have to try your bourbon vanilla, thank you for sharing!!!
Does this keep indefinitely and does the quality of vodka matter?
Hi Bubbles,
Yes, great minds think alike. I always ask myself WWBD and these little gems come to me. Thanks!!!
Happy New Year! Zoë
Hi Jill and Jessica,
Great question, I added the shelf life to the end of the post. It lasts nearly forever and just gets better as it ages.
Cheers, Zoë
I love love love this idea! Thank you for sharing! Any idea how long of a shelf life it has? Or any tips on how to store it for max freshness? Oh… one more question! Does it matter what kind of vodka is used?
Thank you so much!
I want to try making this *so* much! Looks just wonderful!
Thank you for this post. This is one of my top priority work to do in new year. Have been reading and searching for good source. Thanks for details with clear pics.
Happy New Year to you Zoë and yours!
Bonne Annee Zoe, what a great idea! What kind of juice bottle was that? It is gorgeous.
You are so right! After using homemade extract, store bought extract is definitely ruined. Like another one of your readers, I make my extract in the vodka bottle instead of transferring. It’s fun to see the look on people’s faces when you tell them you make your own vanilla extract. 🙂
Great post, Zoe! I would love to see a demonstration video of your Blueberry Lemon Curd Ring; your photos were so helpful, but video would be nice, too. Happy new year!
this is great! I’ve had a bottle of homemade vanilla extract for 3 years now–topping off with vodka as needed. It beats the store-bought stuff for sure!
sooo good! We used to do this in Mertztown many moons ago.
I love making homemade vanilla. My mom turned me on to the idea of making it a few years ago and ever since I’ve been addicting to making bottles of it.
Great post. And I always appreciate your beautiful and informative pictures.
A suggestion for your YouTube Channel…a demo about blind baking specifically docking a pie crust and creating a raised edge on a puff pastry shells. I’m always unsure how close together the fork pricks should be or how deep into the crust I should prick it. Every once in a while I get an air bubble and sometimes my crust shrinks even though I use pie weights.
Thanks for the great step-by-step info. I will definitely make the homemade vanilla extract soon! Now I’m off to watch your videos! Happy New Year to you and yours!
Great Post,Great Pictures!
I would like to see in your YouTube Channel , a video Demontrating, how to make a colored Mirror glaze for a mousse cake.
thank you..
This is wonderful! And I was just kidding a friend of mine that there must be a zillion uses for vodka!
I just have to try this. Any other extracts you can make this way?
I agree about the pie crust video.
Thanks, Judy.
Thanks for all of the video ideas, I am keeping a list!
Cheers, Zoë
I’m with the contingent that just drops the beans into the bottle of vodka (pouring off a little to accommodate the addition). I did this for gifts as well, bought cute little apothecary jars online and made labels. I managed to save one bottle for myself. Next time, I’m trying the bourbon version.
And, would love to see that pie crust video. Also, tempering chocolate.
Happy New Year.
I’m in love with the Juice bottle, can you tell me where I can buy one, after watching you every day And I love the show,I want one so bad…thank you.
Hi Sharon! That is a reused juice bottle from Whole Foods!
I recently found a bottle of rum based vanilla in my pantry that I had started about a year and a half ago and it just got pushed back and forgotten. It smells amazing and is the perfect reward for FINALLY organizing my kitchen 😀 I do like vodka better as a base as it doesn’t compete with the vanilla as much as rum does. I didn’t scrape the seeds though, I just split the pods, that’s a great tip to speed things along. Thanks!
Hi Anna,
I will have to try organizing my pantry, I hope to find something as special jammed in there! What a lucky find. 🙂
Cheers, Zoë
I’m guessing that this is some pretty amazing vanilla extract. Plus, it looks so pretty. Thanks so much for this, Zoe.
I remember making vanilla in Vermont during the commune era. similar bottle and cheap vodka…oh my!
Wow dad,
I had no idea! There are many stories left to be told. 🙂
xo z
Love the vanilla idea. Have a question about Sunflower Breakfast Loaf. Do you put the cup of sunflower seeds in the batter or on top? Trying recipes in Healhy Bread too. JE
Hi Jo Ellis,
The best place to get information about my bread books is on my other website http://www.breadin5.com. We answer questions, have lots of information and videos.
Thanks, Zoë
Love your info on homemade vanilla! I recently bought a Sam’s Club bottle of Vodka and am waiting for a delivery of vanilla beans any day now! You specifically mentioned it should be in a glass bottle. My vodka came in a plastic bottle. Is that okay to use that or is there a reason the bottle it soaks in should be glass? Thank you!
Hi Krsity,
I think the plastic bottle will be just fine. There are some plastics that are supposed to be safer for food than others. You will have to do a bit of research on the web to find out more about that. I have bought very good vanilla extracts in plastic bottles before, so I know it is fine!
Cheers, Zoë
Thank you so much for this Zoe. I have always wanted to make my own vanilla extract. The tips are really helpful.
Magda
Hello Zoe,
Do you have a good suggestion as to where to get the vanilla beans, and how much they cost? Does the quality of vodka make a difference in the quality of vanilla?
Hi Randall,
I put a link to some on Amazon. I have also found some great vanilla beans at Costco if there is one in your area. There are many other online sources. The quality of the vodka won’t matter too much, but I always suggest you use an alcohol you would want to drink when using it in your recipes.
Thanks, Zoë
Thank you for the clear instructions on how to make vanilla. I’ll start mine as soon as I get the vanilla beans I ordered. It will save me a lot of money because I bake a lot of desserts.
For the video suggestion, kindy feature how to fold egg whites when making chiffon cakes. Thank you.
beautiful colour…
Hey Zoe! Love the videos & blog…
Would love to see more videos with formulas…why does my pound cake fall sometimes? Why don’t my cupcakes crown nicely? I just read something about too much leavening and structure and strength of the cake vs. falling cakes? What are the %’s of leavening to use? Uses of bread flour in cakes for strength… all sorts of stuff!! I love to learn!!. Thanks for all you do.
Do you know how to make peppermint extract??
Hi Carol,
I haven’t made it before, but I’ll think about it and get back to you.
Thanks for the idea! Zoë
I love this idea. I’m always baking at home, and I hate running out of baking ingredients (especially on a tight budget).
Most store bought vanilla extracts have water in them, even if they say “pure”. Do you know how much the water actually affects it? Is the flavor any different without the water?
Hi Jennifer,
Water won’t add any flavor, it will just dilute the vanilla extract. In the end you will use more extract if you add water to get the same amount of flavor in your recipe.
Thanks, Zoë
Lovely photos indeed! I’ve been making my own vanilla ‘extract’ for years now w/ bourbon.
I’d love to see a video on making babka. I’d like to see how you roll it up and twist it into a ball and make it fit in the pan and come out babka!
I prefer to steep mine in brandy or cognac. The rum-based extract I made first just made everything taste faintly like rum cake. I tried vodka next and it seemed fine, a nice vanilla flavor with a sharp finish, but the brandy, oh! Warm, rich, and a bit sweet with a vanilla finish that lasts. My favorite. I also make almond and peppermint extracts using vodka to keep them clear in color. Love this blog, Zoe. Thank you for always posting so frequently!
Novice baker question: Once the extract has aged several weeks and is ready to use, should I still continue to shake it occasionally? Should I shake before I use it?
Hi Elsa,
The alcohol will be infused with the vanilla, but I like to shake it first to get some of the seeds with the extract. Either way will be tasty.
Cheers, Zoë
ho zoe! this is a great tutorial! i have a question….we want to make vanilla sugar AND vanilla extract. can we make the sugar first, leaving the pods whole, and then use the same ones to make this? thanks =)
ann
Hi Ann,
Yes, by all means, but they will not have the same potency, so you may want to mix in some that have the seeds still in tact.
Thanks, Zoë
I have just started making my extract. From the wholesaler who I purchased them from I was recommended 4-5 bean pods per 8 oz. Does this sound okay to you? Also, I am really concerned about using them in my already tested recipes. Since it is pure vanilla extract will I need to use less than what my recipes may call for?
Blessings,
Danette
Hi Danette,
Yes, this ratio sounds right to me. You can use it in the same proportion as you have been with other vanilla extract. You may have to wait for a while before the extract is as strong as you like.
Enjoy, Zoë
Hey zoe,
I live in a country where its a constant 30+ degrees all year round…which is pretty warm n it might heat up in my cupboard….
So, Is it alright storing it in the fridge? Or is temp not an issue?
Appreciate the advice…. Xx
Hi Seanna,
Where do you keep your vodka? If you store that in the fridge then this should as well.
Thanks and enjoy! Zoë
I,m a profesional chef and has cooking as a hobbie, this Saturday I’ll be doing vanilla poud cake. vailla extract is a wonderfull idea I will do that too later on when I have the money for the beans. I’m unemployed). Do you have a process for almond extract, please. I’m going to be your folloer once a week. Best og health. Andres
Hi, someone asked about a good place to buy vanilla beans inexpensively. I shop for mine at San Francisco Spice … more reasonable than any where else I’ve found. They also have good buys on other spices, too.
I’d also like some other extract recipes. Any that anyone wants to share. Thanks.
You don’t know how excited I am to make my own vanilla extract! I buy some quite expensive extract from a dependable source, but to make my own in more volume for the same price is not only economical, but baking smart. Thanks Zoe!
PS This is my first visit to your website. I came across it looking for a devil’s food cake recipe. Your site is now favorited, and I’ll be back often!
LOVE this! Definitely trying. Can’t wait to search more of your posts for great ideas!!!
I should mention, too, that I purchased some vanilla beans off ebay for a fantastic price. 30 for less than $7, including shipping. The beans are shorter (4-6inch) but for the price I really don’t mind. They would be perfect for making homemade vanilla!
Hi Jennifer,
That is a great vanilla find!
Enjoy, Zoë
I found beautiful, plump beans online for about $0.50 a bean. A steal! I m also making vanilla sugar with them.
Can you reuse the beans by just pouring out like 75% of the finished product and then keep adding more vodka?
Also I’m sure scraping the pods will make it not as good to reuse, if I dont scrape it itll take longer obviously but will it keep them better to reuse in this way?
Hi Kim,
You can keep topping off the alcohol in the bottle. You will eventually dilute the vanilla, so you will want to add more beans. You don’t have to scrape the beans, but it will take longer to get the flavor.
Thanks, Zoë
I actually have a few 6 oz. bottles that I made about 5 years ago and haven’t opened them. I only found them a few weeks ago (after a home-move). They’d been in storage (a dark place) for years before the move. Thing is: they won’t open and it’s going to take some gentle-nudging to get the plastic cap to loosen. Would you think the vanilla is good after 5 years of sitting? I made it like you did (vodka and vanilla beans). GREAT tips to share with everyone! Thanks.
Hi Colleen,
As long as the vanilla is submerged in the alcohol I think it will still be fine. If there is any mold then you need to throw it out.
Thanks, Zoë
Hi Zoe,
Can I use gin to make vanilla extract?
Thank you for all your lovely posts. I have learnt so much from you.
Lorraine
Hi Lorraine,
You can, but it definitely will have a gin taste to it. I personally love gin, but it is more assertive than vodka.
Thanks, Zoë
I hate alcohol & never have it in the house so it would be helpful to have some guidelines for those of us who aren’t familiar. I do love the smell of pure vanilla extract! The thought of making my own is fascinating.
A few questions: Is vodka the best alcohol to use to bring out the vanilla w/out adding extra “alcohol” flavors? I guess what I’m saying, is that I don’t want any surprises when I open up my jar 5 wks later. Also, where would you normally store this during the extracting process? Does putting it in the fridge affect the process? Have you done a price comparison of store bought vs homemade?
Hi Dara,
I have found that Vodka is the most neutral flavored alcohol to make the vanilla, but it still has that alcohol “heat” or vapor to it. The alcohol is the best thing to break down the beans for the flavor, and it also preserves them, so they don’t have to be refrigerated.
I store the vanilla in a cabinet that is not exposed to much light or heat, but don’t put it in the refrigerator, just not necessary.
The price will be subjected to the cost of the vodka, and the beans that you use. There are a variety of vanilla extracts on the market and the price varies quite a bit.
Hope this helps! Zoë
Hi!
Love your site!!! I can tell these recipes are going to be addicting!
I see that you said refrigeration is not necessary – just what I was going to ask! Along those same lines, I read on some sites that if you use 70 proof vodka (minimum), it’s not necessary to refrigerate homemade infused vodkas, but some people still do it to be on the safe side. Your thoughts?
Have a great day!
Hi Katy,
I have never refrigerated the vanilla, but it won’t hurt it to do so.
Thanks, Zoë
be careful to not refrigerate the actual vanilla bean as this will harm it. also extract grade vanilla beans are called grade b they are drier than grade A and work better for vanilla extract.
That looks nice! I just tried it recently….. IT WORKS!!!
I got my beans from a small island, they are simply the best!!!!!!!:)
Quick question, with hopefully an easy answer… I have never made my own vanilla extract but think this would be perfect for my mothers of preschoolers group. If I buy the 4 oz. bottles for everyone, how many vanilla beans would I need per bottle to make the extract?
Also, do you recommend one type of vanilla bean over another? I’ve seen Madagascar, Tahitian…
Kitchen stuff does not come as naturally to me as others, but I am trying 😉 Any help you can offer is great! The more specific, the better.
Thank you!
Hi Tracy,
I would do about two beans per bottle. The most important part is to get nice plump beans, not the ones that are dried out. The kind you get will depend on your budget and what is available, but I have good luck with all of them and I tend to use what I have on hand, which is a combination of different beans.
Have fun and they will love the gift! Zoë
Definitely have to try this!!
Hello,
I was wondering how you sterilize your bottles. I’ve seen many different ways-oven, bleach, microwave, pressure canner, etc… I’m trying to find the most effective and safest way. Thank you! I love your recipes and the photos especially of Sicily!
Hi Kelly,
I have only used the boiling method for sterilizing bottles.
Thanks! Zoë
Hi Zoe,
Can you make the extract with vanilla powder?
Hi Pam,
That is a great questions, and I’m sorry to say I don’t know??? I have never used the powder, but now that you bring it up, I will get my hands on some.
Thanks, Zoë
I’m surprised no one has mentioned the website: beanilla.com. They are by far the best, most informative site for everything vanilla.
I bought Mexican, Bourbon and Tahiti beans for making my own extract, using bourbon and the vanilla bean “blend”, starting it now, to give as holiday gifts in stopper bottles, with custom labels. Figured 6 months would make a pretty good infusion!
This is such a wonderful find!
I had this on my list of to-do’s last year for the holidays, but never got around to it. I’m making myself start early, as this will be a wonderful treat!
Thanks for the posting and the lovely photos!
Thanks for showing the steps and reminding me to make this. It was on my list for a while. I finally bought the bottle with flip attached lid at the “The Container Store” & want to go back for more. How much money I would’ve saved if I made this 18 yrs ago when I started baking! Actually before 18 yrs as I grew up in my Daddy’s bakery.:-). I love your food pictures & already had you “liked” on FB.:-)
Wow! What a great idea! I have never thought to do this before!! Thanks for your clear instructions and pictures!
Quick question, you touched on it briefly earlier, how many times/ what quantity would you “re-ad” some vodka to the bottle? I don’t use beans in my cooking so would be buying them specially. Or would you recommend just making a new “fresh” bottle from scratch?? Thanks again!!
Hi Anna,
You can keep adding more alcohol and beans as you see fit. If you add too much alcohol it will weaken the flavor, so you’ll want to occasionally add an more vanilla beans.
Thanks, Zoë
Hello! I stumbled on your site and have been spending hourssss ogling all the goodies, haha. I had a question- I cannot have alcohol, in any quantity, is there any way to make vanilla extract without alcohol? Or any way to substitute it with something just as good that has not got alcohol in it?
Thank You!
I looked in the store for vanilla beans and they were like $7.00 for three beans. So I went to eBay and got them for 50 for $15.00. They are perfect and just started my vanilla extract last night. So excited!!!
Hi Alice,
That is wonderful, enjoy all the vanilla!
Cheers, Zoë
I have a question for you. What should it smell like in the end? I used 2 cups of vodka and 12 beans and it’s been hanging out since mid July. I can smell vanilla but it still smells heavy on the vodka side. I’m not expecting it to smell as yummy as the store bought stuff does, but I don’t want to give it out and fail. Thanks!
Hi Jen,
Did you give it a good shake and taste it? It should be great to use at this point. If your beans were on the small side or at all dry, you can just add more of them at any point. I add more every time I use vanilla in a recipe.
Thanks, Zoë
Hi! I made 250 ml of vodka wif 8 pods. Been aging it for 6 mth now. It still smell of alcohol though the vanilla smell is strong. Is it suppose to be like that?
Hi Winnie,
Yes, this sounds right. Don’t forget that the alcohol will burn off when you cook/bake with it.
Thanks, Zoë
How long can you add beans to the original bottle. Do you remove older beans or should you just start a new bottle at some point?
Hi Gladys,
You can keep adding beans and topping off the vodka to replenish the extract. If it becomes too crowded with beans then start to swap out some of the old ones for new.
Thanks, Zoë
Hi
What a great webb page you have like it alot
Was going to ask you brief about your recipe for home made vanilla extract. how good is the sustainability i mean how long can you leave the vanilla pod in the alcohol.?? In some recipe the have added suger is that something you fell is necesserary to establish or is it just useless to have it . Can be fun to here what you think .
Take care
Kent
I worry about using this in uncooked recipes. It is basically just flavored vodka, correct? Is it still usable in things like buttercream?
Thanks
Janice
Hi Janice,
What is your concern, the raw alcohol? Yes, it is flavored vodka, and the way most vanilla is made.
Thanks, Zoë
HI
Yes my concern is the raw alcohol. I have made some and it smells awesome. I bake a lot and make my own frosting. Is this ok to serve to kids? Or in a milk shake or a similar concoction? Thanks!
Hi Janice,
All vanilla extract is made with alcohol, even the kind you buy at the store. There will be no difference between using the one you make yourself and one you can buy. You are typically using such a small amount that the alcolhol has no effect at all.
Thanks, Zoë
i love homemade vanilla extract. It was one of my first forays into real cooking.
I’m now three week in to 8 oz. Jack Daniels with one vanilla bean that is scraped so seeds and pulp are exposed. Still smells a lot like bourbon but will leave it for the next two months and see what happens. Love making my own vanilla. Wish I had used vodka for the first run instead of bourbon but just happened to have Jack Daniels in the stash. How have other bourbon recipes turned out? Did you use more vanilla?
Hi Laurie,
I have never tried it in bourbon, I always use an alcohol with very little flavor, so the vanilla stands out more. You will need to throw more vanilla beans into the bottle to get a strong flavor out of it. There is a type of vanilla called “Bourbon Vanilla,” but the name refers to the island the vanilla was grown on, not to the kind of alcohol it was steeped in.
Thanks, Zoë
Hi Zoe,
Few minutes after I poured vodka onto the vanilla bean in the glass jar,I noticed white fuzzy growth attached to vanilla bean. On shaking the jar, the white fuzz is now floating in the jar. Could please let me know if this is normal or the white fuzz is mold. I used a single madagascar vanilla bean and 90ml vodka.
I like this idea,Thanks
My homemade vanilla extract, used with vodka ha developed a brown ring inside the bottle. The vanilla liquid is a little cloudy. Where did I go wrong. Ty very much. This is my first time.
Can kids eat the Vanilla?
Hi Kitty,
Are you asking because it has alcohol? A typical recipe uses about two teaspoons for the entire thing, so it’s an insignificant amount of alcohol and it burns off in the oven or on the stove, so there are only traces, if any, that remains. Most vanilla is made with alcohol.
Thanks, Zoë
Where did you get the bottle? What juice bottle? And how do I know how much vodka to keep adding to the already used vanilla beans before needing to start over with a new batch? What do I eventually do with the used vanilla beans?
Hi Tina,
I’ve made the vanilla in all kinds and sizes of bottles. You can do little ones for gifts or a big one for your own use. If you add more vodka, you also need to keep adding more vanilla beans to keep up the proportion. I just stick scraped beans in after I have used the seeds in a recipe. I still have this bottle of vanilla and it probably has 50 beans in it from over the years, I can’t squeeze another one in, so I add vodka and some seeds, but I started others also.
Thanks, Zoë
Hello Zoe. Love your show on Magnolia Network.
I want to make Vanilla Extract as Christmas gifts for the family.
Have you found the there a ‘magic ratio’ taking into consideration the size of bottle / amount of vodka / # of vanilla beans?
Any help is appreciated.
– Trish
Hi Trish,
Thank you so much, I’m thrilled you are enjoying the show. It depends on the size of the bottle and the type of beans you use, some are larger and chock full of seeds and oils, but others are less so, although flavorful nonetheless. I am going to guess that about 4 or 5 scraped beans per cup of vodka should be a good start.
Thanks! Zoë
Hi Zoe! I love your show on Magnolia Network! The episode featuring the “Fika” is something I can definitely get behind. I feel like we could be great friends and just talk baking all day!
Watching your show and seeing you use your homemade vanilla extract has got me wanting to try making my own. Where do you usually source your vanilla beans from the normal grocer or do you have a better source? Thanks so much!
Hi Ashlee! In the section above called “What You Need to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract” Zoë links to the beans she buys on Amazon. She orders them from Vanilla Bean Kings. Happy baking!!
I began making our vanilla ages ago, using this recipe. We were already self-proclaimed vanilla snobs…this definitely confirmed it!
To purchase really good vanilla at the store is SO expensive (for a tiny little bottle). The initial purchase of good quality vanilla beans can be a little expensive, but over time, it has definitely paid for itself!
Zoe, thanks a lot for your recipes. I’d love to make this one with vanilla beans. But I have a question, can I make it with mix 50/50 of empty and full pods? Thank you in advanced
Hi Tatiana! Yes, you can use 50/50 empty and full pods. It will take longer for the extract to develop flavor, so just keep adding pods you’ve been using to the mix whenever you can, otherwise the flavor will not be as intense.
Great post, thanks Zoe. Instead of vodka (which has a slight flavor), I used Cacique Guaro. Cacique Guaro is a sugar cane-based liquor of high purity and is the best-selling distilled spirit in Costa Rica. It is known as “Costa Rican liqueur”. It has the same alcohol content as vodka and a neutral (almost sweet, but not really) flavor. At six months, I’m enjoying wonderfully flavored vanilla extract.
Thanks again!!
You are so right–I have done this before and I AM spoiled now …and it is soooo easy
I just made my first bottle of Vanilla Extract and am eagerly waiting to when I can use it in a recipe. I purchased a bottle from Home Goods with a stopper, vanilla beans from Amazon and the vodka from the local liquor store. Took me a little while to figure out how to plump up the beans to be able to slice them open and get the vanilla beans out (also found a YouTube video that shows this) and got it all done. Now the hard part……. waiting
Just created 10 Christmas gifts. I purchased bottles with stoppers at IKEA, ordered Madagascar Vanilla Beans from Vanilla Bean Kings (fantastic quality, fresh, moist and plump) and raided my local liquor store for Vodka. Followed all of your directions. The kitchen and my hands had an amazing aroma. I hope my gift-ees will be as thrilled as I am! Cannot wait to try my first bottle in 6 weeks.
Thank you for posting this recipe. I started some for gifts this Christmas. Question, when you keep adding to the same bottle, do you ever need to take any of the older pods out when you add a few new ones?
Hi Mary, when a bottle is completely full of vanilla beans, Zoë just starts a new bottle and keeps adding vodka to the old ones. Eventually the vanilla won’t be as flavorful, which is when she’ll stop using that bottle.
Hi, Zoe! I received your latest cookbook, Zoe Bakes Cakes, as a gift, and after initially thumbing through the book, I saw your recipe for homemade vanilla and was intrigued. I ordered the vanilla beans from your Amazon link, purchased a bottle of French sparkling lemonade because the bottle was perfect, and raided our liquor cabinet for vodka. My husband has named her Millie Vanillie, and I can’t wait to use her in my recipes.
Do I need to strain the vanilla? We started a bottle a few weeks ago. I scraped the beans and the vanilla looks so chunky/pulpy. Will some of that dissolve?
Thank you!!
Hi Jenni, it may be the type of vanilla beans you’re using. Mexican vanilla beans tend to have more pulp. You can definitely strain it before using!