I love the natural vanilla scent. It can be used in so many recipes and is perfect for my superfood coffee. I also use it in DIY skin care recipes like this Sugar Cookie Lip Scrub.
Unfortunately, commercially available “real vanilla” extracts often contain corn syrup and sugar. There is also a big difference between pure vanilla extract and imitation vanilla. Artificial versions have hidden ingredients such as caramel color, artificial flavors, corn syrup, and propylene glycol.
I’ve been making my own vanilla extract for years. Not only is it cheaper than commercially available vanilla extract, but its flavor is unmatched. It’s also one of the easiest recipes to make, as it only requires two ingredients.
Vanilla extract is also called vanilla tincture because it is essentially a tincture of food-grade liquor and whole vanilla beans. You can make your own vanilla extract with just a cup of vodka, a vanilla bean, and some time.
different types of vanilla beans
There are several types of vanilla beans. All work, but here are the differences:
Grade A beans (the ones I use) have more water content and are extracted faster. Grade B beans are a little drier and better suited for extraction, plus they are a little cheaper. I love Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans, which have a rich, floral vanilla flavor and aroma.
It’s quite expensive at your local grocery store, but you can find it online like Amazon for much cheaper.
best alcohol to use
High-quality alcohol with an alcohol content of at least 35% is also required. Ever since I found this non-GMO, corn syrup-free spiced rum, I prefer using rum. Papagayo rum is also a great option. From what I’ve read, Four Roses and Wild Turkey Bourbon are also non-GMO, but these are the only two I’ve been able to confirm. You can also look for just organic rum, vodka, and bourbon.
You can also use a regular bottle of vodka, but avoid different flavors. These usually have artificial and unhealthy ingredients added to them. Exactly how many ounces of alcohol to use depends on how much vanilla you want to make. One jar is enough if you’re just making it for yourself, but you can easily double or triple the recipe to give as a gift.
Tutorial for infusing vanilla
Once you have your beans and alcohol, what do you do next? Single vanilla is the kind you get at the grocery store and isn’t very strong. Doublefold is much darker, sweeter, and more flavorful, but requires more beans.
For single-fold vanilla, you’ll need 6 to 8 vanilla beans for every 8 ounces of alcohol. If you want to fold it in half, double the amount of beans. I use about 8 beans per glass of alcohol and still have a good flavor.
Once the beans are in the liquid, they should be infused for at least 3 months at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Must be infused for 12 months for best flavor. Depending on how much vanilla you need, you can use an 8-ounce or larger bottle.
Reusing vanilla beans
Every time you use a little vanilla extract, you can add a little more alcohol. If the extract starts to lose its flavor, replace the used vanilla bean with a new one.
Introducing a super easy recipe for homemade vanilla extract.
homemade vanilla extract recipe
Homemade natural vanilla extract made with just two ingredients. A wonderful scent perfect for baking, cooking, and coffee.
8 ounces organic or non-GMO alcohol (spiced rum, brandy, bourbon, or 80 proof vodka) 7-8 vanilla beans
Cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise with a sharp knife to expose the inside of the vanilla pod. Cut to fit the jar if necessary.
Place the split beans in a tall glass jar. Repurposed maple syrup glass bottles or mason jars both work.
Pour your alcohol of choice over the beans.
Close the cap tightly and shake it gently.
Store in a cool, dark place for at least 1 month, shaking occasionally. We recommend letting it sit for 2-3 months to improve the flavor. For an even more powerful version, infuse for 12 months.
Nutritional information table
homemade vanilla extract recipe
Amount per serving (0.5 teaspoon)
calories 6
% daily value*
Carbohydrate 0.3g0%
Sugar 0.3g0%
*Percent daily intake is based on a 2000 calorie diet.
I use vanilla extract straight from the bottle and just top up with alcohol halfway through. You can continue using the same vanilla bean until the extract loses its flavor. If your recipe calls for sweeter vanilla extract, add a little raw honey or maple syrup for an option that doesn’t contain corn syrup or refined sugar.
How to use vanilla extract
Makes a great DIY Christmas present. There’s something special about homemade holiday gifts. You can also put it in a cute jar with a handmade tag. Here are some recipes and DIY projects that use homemade vanilla extract.
Have you ever made your own extracts? What did you make? Let us know by leaving a comment.
