Homemade Pure Vanilla Extract with Vodka

A bottle of freshly made pure homemade vanilla extract on a marble surface set next to a handful of dried vanilla beans

5 from 1 vote

Homemade Pure Vanilla Extract with Vodka

This foolproof method for making vanilla extract uses only two ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, before leaving it for up to 12 months to infuse. Whether you're stocking your own pantry or making it as a thoughtful gift, this two-ingredient vanilla extract adds a special touch to every recipe.

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Pantry staple

Keyword: extract, Homemade, pure, vanilla, vanilla beans, vodka

Calories: 609kcal

Ingredients

30 grams vanilla beans
230 mls vodka

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

Weigh the required amount of vanilla beans using a kitchen scale.
Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise using a paring knife to expose the tiny seeds inside (you don't have to fully separate the beans into halves).
Place the sliced beans into the bottle.
Measure the required amount of vodka using a measuring cup.
Pour the vodka into the bottle using the funnel, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
Place the lid on the bottle and close tightly.
Shake the bottle gently to start the infusion process.
Store in a cool, dark place such as the kitchen pantry and shake the bottle every week or so.

Notes

Wash and sterilise bottles before use.

If the beans are quite dry and hard at the ends, it may be easier to start in the middle of the bean, and slice towards each end, following along a ridge line.

Depending on the height of the bottle, you may also need to top and tail the beans, or chop the beans in half to fit.

You can use homemade vanilla extract after as little as 8 weeks, however a longer infusion time of 6 - 12 months is recommended for best results.

Nutrition