Homemade Vanilla Extract

For years I’ve entertained the idea of making homemade vanilla extract. I’ve watched friends make it as Christmas gifts for years, but now it is my turn. I finally decided to take the leap to make my own batch. I cannot believe how easy it is to make or why I waited this long to try. This picture shows what it looks like when first bottled. One was made using burbon and one with vodka.

You will need:

• 8.5oz clear glass bottles {Amazon link}
• Madagascar Vanilla Beans {Amazon link} or Variety pack {Amazon link}
• Funnel {Amazon link}

Instructions

You will need 3-4 vanilla beans for each 8oz jar. If you purchase vanilla beans in bulk {Amazon link}, you will pay about $1 or less per vanilla bean. In the grocery store, they sell them for more like $5 each bean. Cut each vanilla bean in half and place the half pieces into the jars. Each jar will contain 6-8 vanilla half pieces. I put 6 vanilla bean half pieces in each of my jars for this batch. Fill each jar with vodka. Cover the jars tightly and store in a dark, cool place. Give them a good shake about once a week.

The longer the vanilla extract ages, the more intense the flavor will be. I used Madagascar vanilla beans for this batch, however there are many different types of vanilla beans. I decided to start with the most popular, but you can also purchase a vanilla beans assortment pack {Amazon link}.

In about 2 months, your homemade vanilla extract will be ready. When your batch is ready discard the vanilla beans and your extract is ready. Homemade vanilla extract is great to package into cute bottles and give as gifts. I purchased cute 8.5oz clear glass bottles {Amazon link} and will make personalized labels to go on each bottle for Christmas gifts this year. You could also make some smaller ones using these 5oz jars found on Amazon {Amazon link}. To create unique extracts, use bourbon, brandy or rum instead of vodka for your homemade vanilla extract.

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