Homemade vanilla extract can save you so much money and it's made with just 2 ingredients - vodka and vanilla beans. Simply soak the vanilla beans in vodka for up to 12 months for the best vanilla extract you'll ever try.
I use vanilla extract so frequently. It's practically in every recipe on my blog. Some of my favorite ways to use it are in a basic vanilla cake, vanilla cupcakes, and vanilla buttercream frosting.
But, the price for quality pure vanilla extract has gotten outrageous. This is why I had to learn how to make vanilla. And believe it or not, it's super easy and so much cheaper to make your own yourself.
I like to make a large quantity of vanilla extract because I use it every day in my baking. Small bottles do not last me long and I found myself repurchasing vanilla extract every couple weeks. That can really add up in cost.
Another great thing about making vanilla at home is you can make double fold vanilla extract for the price of a store-bought bottle of single fold vanilla extract.
What is the difference between single and double-fold vanilla extract?
- Single-fold vanilla extract is required to use 13 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon of alcohol. This is considered commercial grade vanilla extract. Nielson-Massey is an example of quality commercial brand vanilla and it's often my go-to when I must purchase extract.
- Double-fold vanilla extract is what professional bakers use. It uses 23 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon of alcohol. This rich vanilla flavor can't be duplicated by doubling the amount of single-fold vanilla you use.
For what you'll pay for high-quality single-fold vanilla, you can make your own double-fold vanilla extract at home.
Do keep in mind the cost of vanilla beans will go up and down throughout the year but it is still cheaper to make your own extract.
Ingredients
- Alcohol - I like to use vodka but you can actually use a variety of different alcohols. Look for the cheapest you can find at 80 proof.
- Split vanilla Beans - Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans are rich, dark and creamy with an overwhelming sweet, buttery aroma. It's my favorite variety for homemade vanilla. You only need the Grade B beans. Currently, you can find bulk vanilla beans that are already split on Amazon. I buy 2 packs of 10 and put all of them in 750ml of vodka.
- Tahitian vanilla beans are also a great choice! But, honestly, you can use any type of vanilla bean.
What you'll need to make pure vanilla extract:
- Glass Jars: Amber colored glass jars are best since they shield the vanilla extract from light.
- These clear jars are great also but you'll need to make sure to keep the vanilla inside a pantry or cupboard, away from light.
- Labels: I love these chalkboard labels because you can wipe them off and reuse them. They're also waterproof!
What is the best alcohol to make vanilla extract?
80 proof vodka is the best alcohol to use. But other alcohols to choose from are brandy, bourbon, or rum. Each one will offer a different flavor extract.
Can I reuse beans after making vanilla extract?
I don't recommend reusing the beans to make more extract. The flavor has already been extracted from them. However, you can toss them in sugar to make vanilla sugar or scrape out the insides and use it in baked goods.
How to make homemade vanilla extract
Choose your alcohol. I like to use vodka because it's the most versatile. If you choose to use brandy, bourbon, or rum, the vanilla will have a different flavor that may not be suitable for all recipes.
With the 750ml bottle, you can make the vanilla extract right in the same bottle. There's no need to spend money on glass bottles unless you really want to. If the bottle contains a speed pourer, the little plastic piece in the neck of the bottle, gently pop it out using a butter knife.
Cut the vanilla beans in half then slice the beans down the center to split them open. If the beans are too dry to split, cut them into 1-inch pieces instead. Place all the beans in the bottle with the alcohol.
Replace the lid and store the bottle in a cool place out of direct sunlight for 2 months. Shake the bottle every couple of weeks. The longer you let the vanilla age the stronger the flavor will be.
How to store homemade vanilla
Keep the vanilla extract out of direct sunlight. I tuck mine away in the pantry for safekeeping.
If you decide to transfer the vanilla extract to smaller jars, these amber-colored jars are great for protecting the vanilla extract from light.
You can use the extract as soon as 8 weeks but it will become more rich and flavorful with age. For optimal flavor, let the vanilla age for about 6 months. If you have the patience, wait 12 months before using it.
How long does homemade vanilla extract last?
Vanilla can last indefinitely as long as it’s stored properly. But, it will have optimal flavor within the first 5 years. You’re never supposed to refrigerate or freeze vanilla extract. Keep it in a cool dry place like the pantry.
Tips for success
- Stick to the recipe! The vanilla bean to alcohol ratio yields a wonderfully luxurious double-fold vanilla extract.
- Letting the vanilla extract sit for 6 to 12 months will yield the richest vanilla essence.
- If you are using split beans, you don't need to cut them because they are already sliced open.
Homemade Vanilla Extract
Learning how to make homemade vanilla extract is the easiest thing ever. It requires only 2 ingredients and will save you so much money!
Ingredients
- 20-24 Grade B Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Beans*, about 4 ounces - SEE NOTE 1
- 750 milliliters 80 proof plain vodka, brandy, bourbon, or rum can also be used - SEE NOTE 2
Instructions
- Cut the vanilla beans in half and slice them down the center to split them open. (If you purchased the split beans I recommended, you don't need to slice them. They are already split open.)
- Combine the alcohol and vanilla in a large, clean jar and seal. Make sure the alcohol completely covers the beans.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for at least 8 weeks, shaking a few times a week.
- When the extract is done, you can leave the beans in or remove them but the beans should always remain submerged in the alcohol to prevent them from going rancid.
Notes
- Grade A or B vanilla beans can be used. The only difference is the grade B beans will not look as pretty but this shouldn't matter since they are only being used to infuse alcohol. Grade B vanilla beans are also cheaper.
- You can use any alcohol you desire but bear in mind that this will also affect the final flavor of the vanilla. Plain vodka will yield the most versatile result.
- The longer the vanilla extract ages, the better it will be. 6 to 12 months will yield optimal results.
- If you purchase a 750ml bottle of alcohol, you can drop the beans right in the same bottle without needing to purchase additional bottles for storage.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1 teaspoonAmount Per Serving: Calories: 12
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Since different brands of ingredients have different nutritional information, the values shown are just an estimate.
Ellen Daly says
Great article, I want to try the recipe. I’ve got a bottle of pure grain alcohol 190 proof, would this be suitable to use? Also what type of rum would you recommend? I’ve got a white overproof rum or would a spiced rum be more suitable?
Jen Sobjack says
190 proof alcohol is perfectly fine to use. Any rum you desire is also fine to use. You decide based on the flavor profile you wish for the vanilla to have.
Rick C says
So 1+1 does not equal 2?
I am considering making a double. Less alcohol = less investment.
I can use half of the double, so it goes just as far as a full single. no cost change
So, if I can do all of this, and then get a more potent double, not we are saying a double is better than 2 singles.
I ordered 3 ounces for either a 750 single or a 375 double. The 750 is a better value, so I use half and drink half... winner
I hope someone is still around to clarify my thoughts. My question is, why would I make a single?
Jen Sobjack says
The difference between a single and double-fold vanilla is the amount of beans per x amount of alcohol. Double fold has a deeper flavor and tastes best in baked goods because you are using more beans per alcohol. If you decided to use 3-ounces of beans in 375ml of alcohol, you'd have a very potent vanilla and could certainly use less to make it go further.
Lisa says
I have a small bottle of homemade vanilla someone gave me as a gift about five years ago. I put it in my fridge(which I've read you're not supposed to do). How long does it last? I just smelled it and it smells better than it did when I first got it.
Jen Sobjack says
Vanilla can last indefinitely as long as it's stored properly. But, it will have optimal flavor within the first 5 years. You're never supposed to refrigerate or freeze vanilla extract. Keep it in a cool dry place like the pantry.
Julie says
Question, if I were to just use the vodka bottle I purchase, if it is a plastic bottle is it still okay just to add the vanilla beans to that? Or do the beans/vodka need to be in a glass jar to steep?
Thank you!
Jen Sobjack says
The plastic bottles are fine to use. I've used them before with no issues. Just make sure to keep it out of direct light, preferably in a cabinet or pantry.
Baker says
Hi - Is this a single fold or double fold recipe?
4 oz vanilla beans per 750 ml 80 proof plain vodka
Thanks!
Jen Sobjack says
It is double fold.
MTDreams says
Hi Jen,
Thank you for this overview. My wife and I are preparing to make our first batch (ever) so that we will have stocking-stuffers for next Christmas. I will save it as my go to. Very well done.
Question - in the article you suggest cutting the beans in half then spitting them lengthwise. But I don't see this done in any of the pictures. How important is the splitting? I see some articles where they even say to split then scoop the beans into the jar. Another says not to split so that you may squeeze out the seeds (when the product is finished) to use in recipes.
I'm confused by this step! How important is splitting the beans?
Jen Sobjack says
In the recipe, I state if you purchased the split beans I recommended, you don't need to slice them. They are already split open. If your beans are not split, you'll want to split them so all that good flavor gets infused into the alcohol.
Tracy says
My vanilla is 6 months in! I love to smell it. Trying to wait 12 months... just reread your instructions & really like the idea of using 1/2 & then refilling.... I may just go ahead & pour out half, & then refill to get maximum use out of the beans.
Thank you!
Jen Sobjack says
Hold out as long as you can. It's so worth it!
Michelle says
I love that you just use the bottle the vodka comes in. Good for you!
norine howes says
thanks so much for your post I am about to try and make my first batch of vanilla ever. I have one question. Can I sterilize small bottles from artificial vanilla extract or artificial rum extract safely? I wanted to use them to put some of the pure vanilla in and use it for stocking stuffers a year from now. thanks so much
Jen Sobjack says
Most of the time those bottles are plastic and I can't recommend boiling plastic bottles. I suggest tossing them and using small glass bottles instead.
Tamara S Lindenstein says
Silly question - do you take the vanilla bean out after two monthes?
Jen Sobjack says
When the extract is done, you can leave the beans in or remove them but the beans should always remain submerged in the alcohol to prevent them from going rancid.
Andrea says
I just started my batch of double-fold today! A gallon of vanilla is a-brewing! Now if I can make myself wait for 12 months 🙂
brittney says
How many beans did you use for your gallon? I have about 7 cups of vodka with 21 or so beans and 35 more on the way.
Jen Sobjack says
Hi Brittney! It's in the recipe. I only used a 750ml bottle of vodka and about 20 beans for a double fold vanilla.
Cherie says
I am so happy to have found this! I recently moved to Germany, and I am not a fan of the vanilla I have found here(and it is rather expensive compared to in the US). I will be making my own soon!
2pots2cook says
So very useful !!!! Will do it ! Appreciate your detailed research ! Thank you so much !
Jennifer says
Thank you so much for the detailed info and tips to make homemade vanilla! I was just talking about wanting to try this, and realized how little I knew about this process. I can't wait to try this thanks to your great post!
Amanda says
WOW! This is so thoroughly researched and in-depth. You taught me things about vanilla I never even heard of: single-fold, double-fold, alcohol, price breakdowns...AMAZING! Thank you so much, and please consider sending this into Consumer Reports. How professional!