I love the natural vanilla scent. It can be used in many recipes and is perfect in my superfood coffee. I even use it in skin care recipes like this one Sugar Cookie Lip Scrub.
Unfortunately, store-bought “real vanilla” extract often has corn syrup or sugar in it. There is also a big difference between pure vanilla extract and imitation vanilla. You'll find ingredients like caramel coloring, artificial flavors, corn syrup, and propylene glycol hidden in the artificial version.
I have been making my own vanilla extract for years. Not only is it less expensive than store-bought vanilla extract, but the flavor is unbeatable. With only two ingredients, it's also one of the easiest recipes to make.
Vanilla extract can also be called vanilla extract, as it is basically a solution of food liquor and whole vanilla beans. With just a cup of vodka, some vanilla beans and time, you can create your own vanilla extract.
Different types of vanilla beans
There are several types of vanilla beans. Either will work, but here's the difference:
Grade A beans (the one I use) have more moisture in them and extract faster. Grade B beans are a little drier and work well for extraction, plus they can be a little cheaper. I prefer Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans, which have a rich, floral flavor and aroma.
They are quite expensive at the local grocery store, but you can find them online at places like Amazon for much less.
The best alcohol to use
You will also need one high quality drinks this is at least 35% alcohol. I prefer to use rum, as I found this non-GMO and corn syrup free spiced rum. Papagayo rum is another great option. From what I've read, Four Rose Bourbons and Wild Turkey are also non-GMO, but those are the only two I've been able to verify. You can also just ask for an organic rum, vodka or bourbon.
A plain bottle of vodka also works, but avoid the flavored ones. These usually have artificial and unhealthy ingredients. Exactly how many ounces of alcohol you use depends on how much vanilla you want to make. If you're making it just for yourself, then a jar will work, but you can easily double or triple the recipe for gifts.
Vanilla Filling Tutorial
Now that you have your beans and alcohol, what next? Single vanilla is what you will find in the grocery store and is not as strong. Double is much stronger, sweeter and tastier, but requires more beans.
For a single vanilla, you will need 6-8 vanilla beans for every 8 ounces of alcohol. If you want to make a double fold, just double the amount of beans. I use about 8 beans for every cup of alcohol in mine and it still tastes good.
Once your beans are in the liquid, they will need to sit at room temperature and out of direct sunlight for at least 3 months. For the best taste, it should be infused for 12 months. You can use 8-ounce bottles or larger, depending on how much vanilla you want.
Reusing vanilla beans
Whenever you use up some vanilla extract, you can simply top it up with a little more alcohol. Once the extract starts to lose its flavor, replace the used vanilla beans with new ones.
Here is the super easy recipe on how to make vanilla extract at home.
Homemade vanilla extract recipe
Homemade natural vanilla extract with just two ingredients. It is amazing and aromatic for 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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Cut the vanilla beans in half lengthwise with a sharp knife to reveal the inside of the vanilla pod. Cut them if necessary to make them fit into your jar.
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Place split beans in a tall glass jar. A repurposed glass maple syrup bottle or mason jar both work.
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Pour the alcohol of choice over the beans.
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Hold firmly and shake gently.
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Store in a cool, dark place for at least a month, shaking occasionally. I prefer to leave it for 2-3 months for better taste. For an even stronger version, let it infuse for 12 months.
Nutrition facts
Homemade vanilla extract recipe
Amount per serving (0.5 tsp)
Calories 6
% Daily Value*
Carbohydrates 0.3 g0%
Sugar 0.3 g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- I use my vanilla extract straight from the jar and just top up the alcohol as I go. You can keep using the same vanilla beans until you notice that the extract loses its flavor.
- If you need a sweeter vanilla extract for a recipe, just add a little raw honey or maple syrup for a corn syrup and refined sugar-free option.
Ways to use vanilla extract
This is a great Christmas present. There is something about homemade holiday gifts that are very special. You can even include a homemade label and place it in a cute jar. Here are some recipes and DIY projects to use your vanilla extract at home:
Have you ever made your own extracts before? What have you done? Leave a comment and let us know!
