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How To Make Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is essential for most baked goods. You can make your own incredibly delicious vanilla and save money at the same time!
Course Baking
Keyword Baking, how to
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Equipment

  • 4, 8, or 16-ounce jar with lid
  • Funnel (if the mouth of the jar is small)

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces alcohol (like vodka)
  • 5 - 6 whole vanilla beans

Instructions

  • Place the vanilla beans inside the jar. Cut them down into 1-inch sections if needed.
  • Pour the alcohol in the jar and completely cover the vanilla beans.
  • Shake once a week for 8 weeks. Allow it to sit for at least that long, but preferably 6 - 12 months.
  • Shake before each use and enjoy your homemade vanilla extract in your baked goods!

Notes

  1. You can use different kinds of alcohol based on the flavor you want to achieve. The traditional flavor is vodka. 
  2. There are different types of vanilla beans you can choose from. They each have a different flavor profile and grade. 
  3. You can make this without alcohol by using 3 parts food-grade vegetable glycerine mixed with one part water. 
  4. For best results wait for 6 months before using your homemade vanilla extract.