I love the natural vanilla scent. It can be used in so many recipes and is perfect for my superfood coffee. I even use it in DIY skincare recipes like this sugar cookie lip scrub.
Unfortunately, “real vanilla” extracts sold in stores often contain corn syrup or sugar. There is also a big difference between pure vanilla extract and fake vanilla. The artificial versions often contain hidden ingredients like caramel coloring, artificial flavoring, corn syrup, and propylene glycol.
I have been making my own vanilla extract for years. Not only is it cheaper than store bought vanilla extract, it tastes great too. It is also one of the easiest recipes to make, with only two ingredients.
Vanilla extract can also be called vanilla tincture, as it is basically a tincture of food grade liqueur and whole vanilla beans. All you need is a shot of vodka, a vanilla bean, and some time to make your own vanilla extract.
Different types of vanilla beans
There are several different types of vanilla beans. Any type will do, but here are the differences:
Grade A beans (the ones I use) have more moisture and extract faster. Grade B beans are a bit drier and better suited to extraction, and can be a bit cheaper. I prefer Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla beans for their rich, floral vanilla flavor and aroma.
It can be quite expensive at your local grocery store, but you can find it for much cheaper online at sites like Amazon.
Best Alcohol to Use
You also need a high-quality spirit with at least 35% alcohol content. I prefer to use rum after finding one that is non-GMO and corn syrup free. Spiced Rum. Papagayo rum is another good choice. I’ve read that Four Roses and Wild Turkey bourbon are also non-GMO, but those are the only two I’ve been able to verify. You can also look for organic rum, vodka, or bourbon.
A bottle of vodka is fine, but avoid the ones that taste different. These are usually filled with artificial and unhealthy ingredients. Exactly how much alcohol you use will depend on how much vanilla you want to make. If you are making it for yourself, one bottle will do, but if you are making it as a gift, you may want to double or triple the recipe.
Vanilla Infusion Tutorial
Now that you have the beans and the alcohol, what next? Single fold vanilla is the vanilla you find at the grocery store, and it’s not as strong. Double fold is much stronger, sweeter, and more flavorful, but requires more beans.
For single fold vanilla, you will need 6-8 vanilla beans per 8 ounces of alcohol. To make a double fold, simply double the amount of beans. I use 8 beans per cup of alcohol and it still tastes great.
Once the beans are infused in the liquid, they should be steeped at room temperature and out of direct sunlight for at least 3 months. For best flavor, steep for 12 months. Depending on how much vanilla you want, you can use an 8-ounce bottle or larger.
Reusing Vanilla Beans
Each time you use a little vanilla extract, simply top up with a little more alcohol. When the extract begins to lose its flavor, replace the used vanilla bean with a new one.
Here’s a super simple recipe for making vanilla extract at home.
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
Homemade natural vanilla extract made with just two ingredients. Amazing and fragrant in baking, cooking or coffee.
- 8 oz. Organic or non-GMO alcohol (Spiced rum, brandy, bourbon or 80-proof vodka)
- 7-8 Vanilla bean
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Using a sharp knife, cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise to expose the inside of the pod. If necessary, trim it to fit the bottle.
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Place the split beans in a tall glass jar. A reused maple syrup jar or mason jar will work.
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Pour your desired alcohol over the beans.
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Close the lid tightly and shake gently.
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Store in a cool, dark place for at least a month, shaking occasionally. I prefer to keep it for 2-3 months for better flavor. For a stronger version, steep it for 12 months.
Nutritional Information
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
Serving Size (0.5 teaspoon)
calorie 6
% Daily Value*
carbohydrate 0.3g0%
0.3g sugar0%
* Percent Daily Intake is based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- I use vanilla extract straight from the bottle and replace the alcohol as is. You can continue to use the same vanilla bean until you notice the extract flavor is fading away.
- If your recipe calls for a sweeter vanilla extract, you can add a little natural honey or maple syrup instead of using corn syrup and refined sugar.
How to Use Vanilla Extract
It makes a great DIY Christmas gift. There is something special about homemade holiday gifts. You can even include a handmade tag and put it in a cute bottle. Here are some recipes and DIY projects that you can use your homemade vanilla extract for.
Have you ever made your own extract before? What did you make? Let us know by leaving a comment!
